Unicorn cakes have taken the baking world by storm, and it’s no surprise why. These whimsical, colorful creations are perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or any celebration that calls for a touch of magic. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best homemade unicorn cake, from baking the layers to decorating with vibrant buttercream. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this cake will be a showstopper!
Homemade Unicorn Cake: Choosing the Best Ingredients
The ingredients you choose can make or break the final product when crafting your homemade unicorn cake. Let’s explore the best ingredients for a moist, colorful cake.
The Right Homemade Unicorn Cake Base
A perfect unicorn cake starts with a soft, fluffy cake base. Opt for a fun and festive flavor with a vanilla or Funfetti cake recipe. Use high-quality flour, real vanilla extract, and fresh eggs for the best taste and texture. These ingredients ensure a light, airy crumb that forms the foundation of your homemade unicorn cake.
Best Ingredients for a Perfect Homemade Unicorn Cake
Opt for gel rather than liquid food coloring for the most vivid colors. Gel coloring is more concentrated, so you can achieve bright hues without altering the batter’s texture or the frosting’s consistency.
How to Bake the Perfect Homemade Unicorn Cake Layers
Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). While the oven is heating, grease the bottom of three 15 cm (6-inch) cake pans and line them with parchment paper circles. You can bake the layers in batches if you don’t have three pans.
Mixing Tips for the Perfect Homemade Unicorn Cake
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 3/4 cup plus one tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Correctly mixing the dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of leavening agents, crucial for a fluffy homemade unicorn cake.
.For more inspiration click on this link Tips for Baking Fluffy Cake Layers
Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 egg white
- 2 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
Set this mixture aside while you work on the butter-sugar mixture.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, beat 11 tablespoons of softened butter and 1 cup plus two tablespoons of sugar on medium speed for 4-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is essential for creating a tender crumb, the hallmark of any tremendous homemade unicorn cake.
Ensuring the Perfect Texture for Your Homemade Unicorn Cake
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture while mixing quickly. Alternate between adding the dry ingredients and 3/4 cup of buttermilk, mixing until combined. Be cautious not to overmix, leading to a dense cake texture.
Add the Sprinkles
Fold in 1/3 cup of rainbow sprinkles (vermicelli). These will add color and a playful touch to your cake.
Baking and Cooling the Cake Layers
Bake the Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25-26 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Cool the Layers
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorating Your Homemade Unicorn Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that the cake layers have cooled, let’s focus on the frosting. The right buttercream can take your homemade unicorn cake to the next level!
Beat the Butter
In a large bowl, beat 2 1/2 cups of softened butter at medium speed until smooth, for about 2 minutes.
Add the Sugar and Flavor
Gradually add 5 cups of powdered sugar while mixing on low speed, then increase to medium until the frosting is light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes. Add two teaspoons of vanilla extract and two tablespoons of milk, mixing until smooth.
Reserve Some Frosting
Set aside 2 1/2 cups of frosting for decoration and cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Final Touches: Assembling the Perfect Unicorn Cake
Layering Your Cake
Place the first cake layer on a plate or board and spread about 1/2 cup of frosting evenly over the top. Add the second layer and repeat the process.
Crumb Coat
Add the third layer, flipping it upside down to create a flat top. Using an offset spatula, apply a thin layer of frosting (crumb coat) over the cake. Chill the cake in the fridge or freezer for 10-15 minutes to set the crumb coat.
Final Frosting
Once chilled, apply a thicker layer of frosting to the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula to create a flawless surface.
Creating the Unicorn Elements
Paint the Cones
Spray three ice cream cones with edible gold spray paint for the unicorn’s horn and ears. For best results, do this outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
Cut the Ears
Cut two of the cones in half to create the unicorn’s ears. Allow all cones to dry on a paper towel.
Decorating Your Homemade Unicorn Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Color the Frosting
Divide the reserved frosting into five small bowls, coloring them pink, yellow, green, blue, and purple. Set aside a small amount of frosting for black, which will be used for the eyes.
Pipe the Decorations
Fill piping bags with the colored frosting and a star tip. Pipe rosettes and dots around the horn and ears to create the unicorn’s magical mane. Use the black frosting to pipe the eyes and eyelashes, adding a whimsical and charming touch.
Storing and Serving Your Homemade Unicorn Cake
Best Practices for Storing Your Homemade Unicorn Cake
Keep the homemade unicorn cake refrigerated until ready to serve. This will help preserve the freshness and texture of the cake.
Freezing
Wrap leftover slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to one month. This way, you can enjoy your magical creation for longer.
Make-Ahead Tips
To save time, you can bake the cake layers in advance. Wrap them in plastic and freeze them until you’re ready to assemble the cake.
Conclusion:
Bringing Your Homemade Unicorn Cake to Life
There you have it—a complete step-by-step guide to making the best homemade unicorn cake! From selecting the right ingredients to decorating with whimsical flair, this cake will surely be the centerpiece of any celebration. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, baby shower, or just a fun treat, this cake is as fun to make as it is to eat. So gather your ingredients, let your creativity soar, and create a masterpiece, leaving everyone in awe. Happy baking!