Melted Witch Cake

Why This Recipe Works: The Melted Witch Cake is a fun and whimsical dessert perfect for Halloween. It combines rich chocolate cake with vibrant green frosting and decorative elements to create the illusion of a witch melting into the cake. The recipe is simple, yet the result is impressive and sure to be a hit at any Halloween gathering.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
• Green food coloring (for frosting)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Green food coloring

For Decoration:

• Black fondant (for witch hat and shoes)
• Orange fondant (for hat band)
• Pretzel sticks (for broomstick)
• Yellow fondant (for broomstick bristles)
• Edible glitter or sparkles (optional)

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 25-30 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 two 8-inch round cake pans.
   • Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
   • Add the milk and vanilla extract, and beat on medium-high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
   • Add green food coloring a few drops at a time, mixing until you achieve the desired shade of green.
3. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of green frosting on top.
   • Place the second cake layer on top and spread a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Chill the cake for 15 minutes.
   • Apply a final layer of green frosting, smoothing it evenly over the cake.
4. Decorate the Cake:
   • Roll out the black fondant and cut out a witch hat and shoes. Use the orange fondant to add a hat band and buckle.
   • Insert pretzel sticks into the top of the cake to create the appearance of a broomstick. Attach yellow fondant bristles to the ends of the pretzel sticks.
   • Arrange the fondant witch hat and shoes on the cake to create the melted witch effect.
   • Add edible glitter or sparkles for an extra magical touch, if desired.

Expert Tips:

• Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• Use gel food coloring for more vibrant colors without affecting the consistency of the frosting.
• If you don’t have fondant, you can use store-bought candy decorations for the witch hat and shoes.

How to Store This Recipe: Store the Melted Witch Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.