Frankenstein Cake

This Frankenstein Cake is an unforgettable dessert that steals the show at any Halloween gathering! Its vibrant green velvet layers and creamy buttercream frosting create a visually stunning treat that’s as delicious as it is eye-catching. Perfect for parties, kids’ celebrations, or simply indulging in a festive dessert, this cake will impress everyone with its unique flavors and fun design.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Striking: The bright green color makes it a standout centerpiece for Halloween.
• Delicious Flavor: Moist green velvet cake paired with creamy buttercream delivers an irresistible taste.
• Fun to Decorate: Get creative with frosting and decorations to give your cake a spooky personality.
• Perfect for Everyone: This cake appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, baking this cake can be enjoyable even for beginners!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having the right equipment will ensure your Frankenstein Cake turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 10-inch greaseproof cake board
• Spinning cake stand
• Small offset spatula
• Large piping bag
• Small piping bags (3)
• Large round piping tips (2)
• Small round piping tip
• Tiny piping tip

Importance of Each Tool

• Spinning Cake Stand: Helps you easily frost the cake evenly from all angles.
• Piping Bags: Perfect for decorating your cake with precise designs and details.
• Offset Spatula: Ideal for spreading frosting smoothly across the surface of the cake.

Ingredients

This Frankenstein Cake features a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Cake Layers

• 2 1/2 cups cake flour (300g)
• 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted (10g)
• 1 tsp baking soda (6g)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar (350g)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g)
• 1 1/4 cups buttermilk, room temperature (300g)
• 2/3 cup vegetable or canola oil (145g)
• 2 squirts of green gel food coloring (or 1 Tbsp liquid food coloring)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (8g)
• 1 tsp white vinegar (4g)

For the Cream Cheese Buttercream

• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature (339g – 3 sticks)
• 1/2 cup full-fat cream cheese, room temperature (113g or 4 oz.)
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (12g)
• 1 tsp fine salt (6g)
• 8 cups powdered sugar (1000g)
• 2 Tbsp heavy whipping cream, room temperature (30g)

For Decoration

• Electric Green Gel Food Coloring
• Black Gel Food Coloring

How to Make Frankenstein Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two round 9-inch cake pans by greasing them lightly and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Cake flour
2. Cocoa powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt

Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes on medium speed.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in:
– Buttermilk
– Vegetable oil
– Green gel food coloring
– Vanilla extract
– White vinegar

Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, beating just until combined. Do not overmix!

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Pour equal amounts of batter into prepared pans. Bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans before transferring to wire racks.

Step 7: Make Buttercream Frosting

In a large bowl, beat together:
– Unsalted butter
– Cream cheese
until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until creamy. Add salt and heavy cream; beat until combined.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Place one layer on a serving plate or stand. Spread frosting on top before adding the second layer. Use remaining frosting to cover the entire cake.

Step 9: Decorate Your Frankenstein Cake

Use colored gels in piping bags to create fun designs on your cake! Get creative with eyes, scars, or anything spooky!

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Frankenstein Cake at your next gathering! Enjoy!

How to Serve Frankenstein Cake

This Frankenstein cake is not only a visual delight but also a delicious treat perfect for Halloween parties and gatherings. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cake presentation.

Creative Plating Ideas

• Layered Slices: Cut the cake into layered slices to showcase the vibrant green color. This makes each piece visually striking.
• On a Cake Board: Serve the cake on a festive-themed cake board for an added touch of Halloween decor.
• With Sprinkles: Top each slice with spooky-themed sprinkles for extra festivity.

Pairing with Drinks

• Milkshake: A classic chocolate or vanilla milkshake pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the cake.
• Fruit Juice: Serve with a refreshing orange or apple juice that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Garnishing Options

• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream atop each slice for extra creaminess.
• Fruit Toppings: Fresh berries or sliced bananas can add a fruity contrast to the rich buttercream.

How to Perfect Frankenstein Cake

To achieve the most delightful Frankenstein cake, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and appearance.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffier texture.
• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa powder helps prevent lumps and ensures even distribution in your batter.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to maintain a light, airy texture in your cake layers.
• Chill Your Frosting: If your cream cheese buttercream feels too soft, chill it briefly before frosting your cake for easier application.

Best Side Dishes for Frankenstein Cake

While the Frankenstein cake steals the show, pairing it with delightful side dishes can create a balanced dessert table. Here are some great options:

1. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: These moist muffins add seasonal flavor and are easy to grab and enjoy alongside the cake.
2. Spooky Fruit Skewers: Assemble skewers of grapes, melon balls, and strawberries for a healthy, colorful addition.
3. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate complements sweet desserts beautifully.
4. Caramel Apple Slices: Fresh apple slices drizzled with caramel offer a refreshing break from rich cakes.
5. Candy Corn Mix: Create a bowl of candy corn mixed with nuts for a sweet and salty snack that fits the Halloween theme.
6. Ghostly Meringues: Light meringues shaped like ghosts make for an airy treat that pairs well with richer desserts like cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Frankenstein Cake can be fun, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your creation. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This ensures a smooth batter and frosting.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Baking is a science, and accuracy is key to getting the right texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to gluten development, making the cake chewy instead of fluffy.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with few crumbs attached.
• Rushing the cooling process: Allow each layer to cool completely before frosting. If not cooled, the frosting may melt and slide off.
• Using old baking powder: Ensure that your baking powder is fresh for optimal rising. Test it by adding a bit to hot water; it should fizz up immediately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• You can also cover the cake with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Freezing Frankenstein Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Alternatively, freeze the whole cake if desired; just ensure it’s well wrapped.

Reheating Frankenstein Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Frankenstein Cake:

How do I make green velvet cake?

To create green velvet cake, you simply add green gel food coloring to your classic red velvet recipe. Use two squirts of gel or one tablespoon of liquid food coloring.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Frankenstein Cake?

Yes! You can use vegetable oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. Also, non-dairy cream cheese works well in frosting.

What decorations work best for Frankenstein Cake?

You can use black gel food coloring for facial features and electric green gel for spooky effects. Candy eyes or chocolate pieces make great accents!

How long does this Frankenstein Cake last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake and freeze the layers beforehand. Just frost them when you’re ready to serve!

Final Thoughts

The Frankenstein Cake is an exciting dessert that not only looks fantastic but also tastes amazing! It’s perfect for Halloween parties or any festive occasion. Feel free to customize it with different colors or toppings to make it uniquely yours—your guests will be thrilled with this spooky treat!