Layer cakes are the ultimate showstopper for any special occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or wedding, these towering treats are sure to impress your guests with their rich flavors and stunning presentation. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 decadent layer cake recipes that are perfect for any special event.
From classic vanilla bean to rich chocolate fudge, and from fruity lemon blueberry to indulgent peanut butter chocolate, there’s a flavor combination to suit every taste. We’ve got creamy buttercream frostings, gooey ganache drizzles, and crunchy toppings galore to make your mouth water. So get ready to take your baking skills to the next level with these 20 decadent layer cake recipes that are sure to wow your loved ones.
Classic Vanilla Bean Layer Cake with Buttercream Frosting
Celebrate any occasion with this timeless classic – a moist and flavorful vanilla bean cake layered with a rich buttercream frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
For the frosting:
– 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
– 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and eggs. Add vanilla extract, butter, and milk; mix until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Let cakes cool completely before assembling with frosting.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Rich Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake with Ganache Drizzle
Treat your loved ones (or yourself!) to a show-stopping dessert that combines the richness of dark chocolate and the creaminess of ganache. This moist and indulgent layer cake is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the ganache:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; whisk until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans; bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling and drizzling with ganache.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour, including cooling time.
Red Velvet Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This iconic cake gets its signature red color from cocoa powder and food coloring, while the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy and creamy contrast. Perfect for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add red food coloring and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
6. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add butter, beating until combined.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake with Citrus Glaze
Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe
This refreshing cake combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, topped off with a tangy citrus glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen blueberries
– Citrus Glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in lemon juice.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with blueberries, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely in pans.
7. For the Citrus Glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and water until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes per layer (75-90 total)
Carrot Cake Layer Cake with Cream Cheese and Walnuts
Carrot Cake Layer Cake with Cream Cheese and Walnuts: A moist and flavorful layer cake that combines the classic spices of carrot cake with the tanginess of cream cheese frosting, all wrapped up with crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and vanilla extract.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake with Fresh Berries
This classic dessert gets a delightful twist with the addition of fresh berries, taking it to the next level of sweetness and flavor. Layers of moist strawberry cake, creamy whipped cream, and juicy strawberries come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– Fresh berries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely. Whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Assemble cake by spreading whipped cream on top of each cake layer, followed by sliced strawberries.
7. Top with fresh berries and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes per layer
Tiramisu Layer Cake with Coffee Soaked Sponge
Elevate your dessert game with this classic Italian-inspired Tiramisu Layer Cake, featuring layers of coffee-soaked sponge cake and creamy mascarpone mixture.
Ingredients:
For the sponge cake:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) strong brewed coffee
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
For the mascarpone mixture:
– 8 ounces (225g) mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold in melted butter, then coffee.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until springs back when touched.
4. Allow cakes to cool completely. Cut each into two layers using a serrated knife.
5. In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, sugar, cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. To assemble the cake, place one sponge layer on a serving plate. Spread with mascarpone mixture, then repeat with remaining layers.
7. Dust top with cocoa powder or powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (baking time + cooling time)
Black Forest Layer Cake with Cherry Filling
A classic German dessert, Black Forest cake gets its name from the region’s famous black forest ham, but it’s the rich chocolate and cherry flavors that make this cake truly unforgettable. This multi-layered masterpiece is perfect for special occasions or anytime you want to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup cherry preserves
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and cocoa powder. Add dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before filling with cherry preserves and topping with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 75-90 minutes
Funfetti Layer Cake with Rainbow Sprinkles
This delightful cake is perfect for birthdays, parties, or any occasion that calls for a burst of color and fun. With its moist vanilla flavor and vibrant rainbow sprinkles, it’s sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– Rainbow sprinkles for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with frosting and decorating with rainbow sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 75-90 minutes (including cooling time)
Coconut Pineapple Layer Cake with Tropical Frosting
A sweet and tropical twist on the classic layer cake, this Coconut Pineapple Layer Cake with Tropical Frosting is a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, coconut, pineapple juice, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with Tropical Frosting.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Salted Caramel Layer Cake with Toffee Crunch
Salted Caramel Layer Cake with Toffee Crunch: A decadent dessert featuring layers of moist cake, salted caramel buttercream, and crunchy toffee bits.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Toffee bits (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with vanilla extract.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling and frosting with salted caramel buttercream.
7. Sprinkle toffee bits on top of each layer for added crunch.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (depending on cake pans)
Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake with Reese’s Pieces
This rich and decadent cake combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, topped off with crunchy Reese’s Pieces for added texture. Perfect for any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup Reese’s Pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and peanut butter until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and milk. Mix well.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop; let cool slightly.
5. Divide cake batter evenly between prepared pans; top with melted chocolate.
6. Sprinkle Reese’s Pieces over the top of each cake layer.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Matcha Green Tea Layer Cake with White Chocolate Frosting
Celebrate the harmony of East meets West with this unique and delicious Matcha Green Tea Layer Cake, topped with a rich and creamy White Chocolate Frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup matcha green tea powder
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together matcha green tea powder, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the frosting, melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Stir in heavy cream and butter until smooth.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Raspberry Almond Layer Cake with Amaretto Syrup
Raspberry Almond Layer Cake with Amaretto Syrup Recipe
Elevate your baking game with this decadent Raspberry Almond Layer Cake, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of raspberries and almonds, and finished with a rich Amaretto Syrup.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (120g) fresh raspberries
For the syrup:
– 1 cup (200ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Amaretto liqueur
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients in a medium bowl. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and almond extract. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth. Fold in raspberries.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely. Drizzle Amaretto Syrup over each cake layer before assembling the final cake.
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes per cake layer
Pumpkin Spice Layer Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Warm up to the flavors of fall with this moist and aromatic pumpkin spice layer cake, paired with a tangy and creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting (see below).
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
3. Stir in cinnamon and vanilla extract.
Banana Pudding Layer Cake with Vanilla Wafers
This show-stopping cake combines the flavors of moist banana pudding and crunchy vanilla wafers for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 package (6-8 oz) vanilla wafers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with whipped cream and crushed vanilla wafers.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cookies and Cream Layer Cake with Oreo Crumbles
A classic vanilla cake gets a playful twist with layers of cookies and cream buttercream, topped with crunchy Oreo crumbs. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup cookies and cream buttercream (homemade or store-bought)
– 12 Oreo cookies, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add butter and mix until just combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling the cake with cookies and cream buttercream and topping with crushed Oreos.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes (including cooling time)
Mocha Espresso Layer Cake with Coffee Buttercream
Elevate your cake game with this rich and decadent mocha espresso layer cake, topped with a creamy coffee buttercream frosting. Perfect for coffee lovers and anyone looking to impress at their next gathering.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
For the buttercream:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, espresso powder, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
5. Beat butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Add coffee and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
6. Assemble cake layers with buttercream frosting.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Hummingbird Layer Cake with Pineapple and Pecans
Moist and flavorful, this Hummingbird Layer Cake is a sweet escape from the ordinary. With its combination of pineapple, pecans, and a hint of spice, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in crushed pineapple and chopped pecans.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Chocolate Layer Cake with Coconut Pecan Frosting
This decadent cake combines the richness of German chocolate with the tropical flavors of coconut and pecans, topped off with a creamy frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with frosting.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 decadent layer cake recipes perfect for special occasions! From classic vanilla bean and rich chocolate fudge to unique flavor combinations like strawberry shortcake and matcha green tea, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe features a stunning combination of flavors and textures, from creamy buttercream and ganache drizzles to crunchy nuts and tropical frostings. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or any other special occasion, these show-stopping layer cakes are sure to delight.