Ingredients
Scale
- For the Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for chocolate flavor, optional)
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water (for moistness)
- For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Food coloring gel (optional, for a colorful touch)
- For Decorations:
- Fondant letters spelling “Happee Birthdae”
- Edible gold dust or sprinkles
- Optional: Chocolate ganache drip or piped details
Instructions
- Baking the Cake Layers: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Stir in boiling water for a thin batter. Pour into pans and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before assembling.
- Making the Buttercream Frosting: Cream softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream, until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract and adjust consistency as needed. Add food coloring if desired.
- Assembling the Cake: Level the cake layers if necessary. Spread a layer of frosting between the layers, then frost the outside evenly. Chill briefly to set the frosting.
- Decorating the Cake: Use fondant to create letters spelling “Happee Birthdae.” Arrange them on top of the cake. Add edible gold dust or sprinkles for sparkle, and finish with optional chocolate ganache or piped decorations.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan alternative: Use plant-based butter, egg substitutes (like flax eggs), and dairy-free milk for the batter and frosting.
- To enhance the fruitcake-inspired flavor, replace cocoa powder with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Store the assembled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/10th of cake)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg