Piñata Smash Cake
A Piñata Smash Cake is a thrilling, fun-filled dessert designed to make any celebration unforgettable. Packed with hidden treats and surprises, it combines the joy of smashing and discovering goodies inside. Perfect for creating magical, memorable moments!
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl Large enough to mix cake batter comfortably.
- 1 Electric Mixer Handheld or stand mixer for smooth batter and frosting.
- 1/3 Cake Pans Round pans (6-8 inches) for baking the cake layers.
- 1 Cooling rack To cool the cake layers evenly.
- 1 Spatula For spreading frosting and leveling the cake layers.
- 1 Rolling Pin To shape and flatten fondant or chocolate dome (if using).
- 1 Dome Mold A silicone or metal mold for creating the piñata shell.
- 1 Knife or Cake Leveler To trim the cake layers for even stacking.
- 1 Piping bag For decorative frosting or filling.
- 1 Hammer or Wooden Mallet A small one for smashing the piñata cake during the event.
- 1 Decorating Turntable Optional but helpful for frosting and decorating the cake evenly.
- 1 Baking Sheet For setting or cooling chocolate shell or other decorations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour For the cake batter; sifted for a smooth texture.
- 1 ¾ Cups Granulated sugar To sweeten the cake batter.
- 1 Cup Unsalted butter Softened; adds richness to the cake.
- 4 Large Eggs Room temperature; helps with structure and texture.
- 1 Cup Whole milk Room temperature; can substitute with buttermilk for extra moisture.
- 1 tsp Baking powder For leavening the cake layers.
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda Balances acidity and aids in rising.
- 1/2 tsp Salt Enhances the flavor of the cake.
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract Adds a rich flavor to the cake.
- 1 Cup Heavy cream For making whipped frosting or ganache.
- 2 Cups Powdered sugar For the frosting; sifted to avoid lumps.
- 1 Cup Chocolate chips Melted to create the piñata shell.
- 2/3 Cups Candy or sprinkles To fill the piñata; choose colorful and small-sized treats.
- As needed Food coloring Optional; for coloring frosting or decorations.
- 1 tbsp Corn syrup Optional; for shiny chocolate shell or glaze.
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake BatterPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two or three 6-8 inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Bake the Cake ; Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 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 cooling rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Piñata Shell (Optional)Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
- Use a dome mold to create the piñata shell by spreading the melted chocolate evenly over the mold. Let it set in the fridge for 20-30 minutes, then gently remove the shell.
- Assemble the Cake ; Trim the tops of the cake layers to ensure they are flat using a sharp knife or cake leveler.
- Place the first cake layer on a cake board or serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over it.
- Place the second cake layer on top and repeat if you have a third layer.
- Using a round cutter or a knife, carve a hole in the center of the cake layers (excluding the topmost layer).
- Add the Candy Filling Fill the hollow center of the cake with, candy or sprinkles of your choice.Place the top layer over the filled cake to seal it.
- Frost the Cake Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting over the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Chill for 15 minutes.
- Spread a final layer of frosting evenly across the cake, using a spatula for a smooth finish.
- Decorate and Add the Shell Decorate the cake with additional frosting, sprinkles, or edible decorations as desired.
- Carefully place the chocolate dome on top of the cake to cover it completely.
- Serve and Smash!Present the cake with a small hammer or wooden mallet for smashing.
- Let the guest of honor smash the dome to reveal the surprise treats inside!