Christmas Tree Cake

Why This Recipe Works: This Christmas Tree Cake is a fun and festive dessert that’s perfect for holiday celebrations. Shaped like a Christmas tree and decorated with colorful frosting and sprinkles, it brings joy and cheer to any table. The cake is moist and flavorful, making it as delicious as it is visually appealing.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• Green food coloring

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• Green food coloring

For Decorating:

• Assorted sprinkles
• Edible glitter (optional)
• Star-shaped candy or topper

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How to Make This Recipe:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Christmas tree-shaped cake pan or use a regular rectangular pan.
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
   • Add green food coloring until the desired shade of green is reached.
2. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Add more milk if necessary to reach the desired consistency.
   • Add green food coloring until the frosting is the desired shade of green.
4. Assemble and Decorate the Cake:
   • Place the cooled cake on a serving platter.
   • Spread a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake as a crumb coat. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
   • Apply a second layer of frosting, smoothing it out evenly.
   • Decorate with assorted sprinkles, edible glitter, and place a star-shaped candy or topper at the top of the tree.

Expert Tips:

• Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• For a more festive look, use different shades of green food coloring for the frosting layers.
• You can also add a few drops of peppermint extract to the frosting for a seasonal flavor twist.

How to Store This Recipe: Store the Christmas Tree Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.