Ghosts in the Graveyard Cake

Why This Recipe Works: The Ghosts in the Graveyard Cake is a fun and spooky dessert perfect for Halloween. This cake combines rich chocolate flavors with a creamy filling, all topped with whimsical ghost decorations and edible gravestones. It’s a showstopper at any Halloween party and is surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
• 1 package instant chocolate pudding mix
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration:

• 12-15 Milano cookies (or similar) for gravestones
• Black decorating gel or edible marker
• 8-10 marshmallows for ghosts
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (for ghost eyes)
• Crushed Oreo cookies (for dirt)
• Candy pumpkins, gummy worms, or other Halloween-themed candies

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours

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How to Make This Recipe:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
   • Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk until thickened.
   • Fold the pudding mixture into the prepared cake batter until well combined, then stir in the mini chocolate chips.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the cake mix instructions, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
2. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating well to combine.
   • Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
3. Frost the Cake:
   • Once the cake is completely cool, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top.
4. Decorate the Cake:
   • Write spooky messages on the Milano cookies with black decorating gel or an edible marker to create gravestones.
   • Press the gravestone cookies into the frosted cake.
   • Place marshmallows on the cake for ghosts. Use mini chocolate chips to create eyes and mouths on the marshmallows.
   • Sprinkle crushed Oreo cookies around the cake to resemble dirt.
   • Add candy pumpkins, gummy worms, and other Halloween-themed candies to complete the spooky scene.

Expert Tips:

• Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• For extra stability, you can insert a toothpick into each marshmallow ghost before placing it on the cake.
• Get creative with your gravestone messages and candy decorations to make the cake even spookier!

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