Introduction
With its enchanting purple hue and whimsical decorations, this Unicorn Purple Velvet Cake is perfect for magical celebrations! The combination of fluffy layers and creamy frosting will leave everyone spellbound.
Ingredients
– 315g all-purpose flour
– 300g granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 240ml buttermilk, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 360ml vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons purple food coloring
– 1 teaspoon white vinegar
– 450g cream cheese, softened
– 115g unsalted butter, softened
– 480g powdered sugar
– Purple food coloring (optional for frosting)
– Edible glitter
– Rainbow sprinkles
– Unicorn horn and ears cake toppers
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In another bowl, combine the oil, buttermilk, eggs, purple food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until combined.
5. Divide the batter equally into the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing well. Add purple food coloring, if desired.
9. Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top.
10. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.
11. Decorate with edible glitter, rainbow sprinkles, and unicorn toppers.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cake layers release effortlessly once baked.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. The cocoa powder will enhance the cake’s depth of flavor while keeping the purple hue vibrant.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, large eggs, purple food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. Stir until smooth, and let the beautiful purple color inspire your baking spirit.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Prepare for Baking
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. The batter will be thick and luscious, with an inviting purple hue.
Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The rich aroma of the cake will fill your kitchen as it bakes.
Cool the Cakes
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key; allow them to cool to room temperature before frosting.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. If you desire an even more vibrant hue, add purple food coloring to the frosting.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top, allowing it to cascade beautifully over the edges.
Finish with the Second Layer
Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting. Make sure to have an even coat for a professional-looking finish!
Decorate the Cake
Now comes the fun part! Add edible glitter, rainbow sprinkles, and place your unicorn horn and ears cake toppers for a whimsical touch that will enchant guests of all ages.
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure your buttermilk and eggs are at room temperature to help create a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.
Color Concentration
The intensity of the purple shade can be adjusted by modifying the amount of purple food coloring. Add more for a deeper hue.
Storage Recommendations
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for a week. The cake can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Frosting Tips
If your frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency. For a lighter texture, you may whip the cream cheese and butter longer to incorporate more air.
Presentation Ideas
Consider using a cake stand to elevate your unicorn creation, making it a centerpiece that captures attention and admiration at any celebration.
Cook techniques
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
Ensure that all ingredients are measured accurately for the best results. Use a scale for dry ingredients and measuring cups for liquids to promote consistency in baking.
Whisking
When whisking dry ingredients, make sure to mix them thoroughly to avoid any clumps. This ensures an even distribution of baking soda and cocoa powder throughout the flour.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
Combine the wet ingredients just until smooth; over-mixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in a denser cake.
Layering
Divide the batter evenly between the pans to ensure uniform baking. Use a spatula to smooth the tops before placing them in the oven.
Cooling the Cake
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents sticking and helps maintain the cake’s structure.
Frosting Application
When frosting the cake, start with a crumb coat to trap any loose crumbs, then add a final layer of frosting for a smooth finish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of food coloring?
Yes, you can use gel or liquid food coloring, but make sure it’s suitable for baking to achieve the desired purple hue.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you may substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but the texture may vary slightly.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of regular milk and vinegar (or lemon juice) in a 1:1 ratio.
How can I achieve vibrant colors in the frosting?
Add more purple food coloring gradually until you reach your desired shade, mixing well after each addition.
Conclusion
This Unicorn Purple Velvet Cake is a delightful centerpiece for any celebration, combining a whimsical color with a rich flavor that captivates both the eye and the palate. Its fluffy layers paired with creamy frosting create a luscious dessert that will undoubtedly bring joy and a touch of magic to your festivities. Whether for birthdays, parties, or any special occasion, this cake is sure to be a showstopper that leaves everyone enchanted.
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