Birthdays are a time of joy, celebration, and of course, delicious treats! And what better way to add excitement to the party than with a pinata birthday cake? This delightful dessert not only looks impressive but also hides a sweet surprise inside, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this fun-filled recipe that promises to make any birthday celebration extra special.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the filling:
- Assorted candies and treats (e.g., mini chocolates, gummy bears, sprinkles)
For the frosting:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mixing until just combined.
- Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and tap the pans gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the filling: Once the cakes are cooled, level the tops if necessary to create flat surfaces. Place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top, then add a generous amount of assorted candies and treats in the center, leaving a border around the edge. Repeat with the remaining cake layers, stacking them on top of each other.
- Frost the cake: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of heavy cream or milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Add food coloring if desired to create a colorful frosting.
- Decorate the cake: Use a spatula to frost the top and sides of the cake with the prepared frosting, creating a smooth and even layer. You can also use piping bags and decorating tips to add additional designs and decorations as desired.
- Reveal the surprise: Once the cake is frosted, it’s time for the best part – the surprise inside! Carefully slice into the cake to reveal the hidden candies and treats, creating a fun pinata effect that will delight everyone at the party.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice the cake and serve it to your guests, watching their faces light up with excitement as they discover the sweet surprise hidden within. Be sure to have plenty of napkins on hand for sticky fingers and happy smiles!
With its playful appearance and irresistible taste, a pinata birthday cake is sure to be the highlight of any birthday celebration. So gather your loved ones, grab your ingredients, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime with this delightful dessert. Happy baking and happy birthday!