Print

Bewitching Halloween Cake: Ladybug Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A delightful and visually appealing ladybug cake perfect for Halloween parties or family gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • Red and black food coloring
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • Green fondant (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, making sure not to over-mix.
  5. Add Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.
  6. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Mix on low speed until incorporated, then add the milk and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.
  9. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are cool, level them if needed. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top. Top with the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
  10. Decorate the Cake: Divide the frosting into two bowls. Tint one bowl with red food coloring and the other with black. Use the red frosting to cover the cake and black for the ladybug head and spots. Use mini chocolate chips for added detail.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for better emulsion and fluffiness. Avoid over-mixing to ensure a tender cake.