Candy Cane Layered Cake

why make this recipe

Candy Cane Layered Cake is a delightful mix of festive flavors that brings joy to any gathering. This treat combines the sweetness of vanilla cake with the refreshing taste of peppermint, making it perfect for the holiday season. The vibrant layers and decorative candy cane garnishes create an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table.

Making this cake is not just about the delicious taste; it’s also about the experience of baking. The joy of mixing, layering, and decorating is a rewarding process, especially when you share the cake with family and friends. It’s an excellent way to get into the holiday spirit, and everyone’s holiday celebrations will be enhanced by this delightful addition.

equipment needed for Candy Cane Layered Cake

To embark on your Candy Cane Layered Cake journey, you’ll need a few essential tools. Make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk and spatula
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Two 20-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula for frosting
• Plastic wrap
• Cake stand or serving platter

Having these items ready will streamline the baking process and make it more enjoyable.

What You Need to Make Candy Cane Layered Cake

To create this festive cake, gather the following ingredients for the cake and frosting:

For the Cake:

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 and 1/2 cups cake flour
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup candy canes, crushed
• 12 whole candy canes

For the Frosting:

• 1 and 1/2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 6 cups icing sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/3 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
• 12 oz. cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 and 1/2 cups icing sugar
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to bring a festive flair to your kitchen and bake this iconic cake.

How to Cook Candy Cane Layered Cake Step by Step

To begin making the Candy Cane Layered Cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures an even baking process for the cake layers. In a large mixing bowl, take the softened butter and cream it until it reaches a smooth, fluffy consistency. This typically takes about 1 to 2 minutes of beating.

Once the butter is smooth, add in the granulated sugar and continue to beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take another 1 to 2 minutes. Incorporate the eggs next, beating them into the mixture until well combined, about 2 minutes. It’s important to mix thoroughly to ensure a uniform batter. Then, add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until fully blended. Gradually pour in the milk while mixing until everything is just combined.

Next, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, combine the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.

Now that your batter is ready, it’s time to prepare the cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between two 20-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean if they are fully baked.

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, gently remove them from the pans and place them on a cooling rack to cool completely. After cooling, take a sharp knife and carefully cut each cake horizontally in half, so you have four layers in total.

Moving on to the frosting, you’ll prepare a mint buttercream first. To do this, use a clean mixing bowl and beat the softened butter until it is light and fluffy. Gradually add the icing sugar, mixing well until smooth. Then, mix in the peppermint extract and heavy cream until the frosting reaches a nice, creamy consistency.

In a separate bowl, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese along with the butter until smooth. Gradually add the icing sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.

Now, it’s time to assemble your cake. Start with one layer of the vanilla cake and spread a generous amount of mint buttercream frosting on top. Add another layer of cake and repeat this process, continuing until all cake layers are stacked. Once you have your layered cake, use the remaining mint buttercream to cover the top and sides of the cake smoothly.

After frosting, place the cake in the refrigerator for about an hour. This cooling period helps the frosting set properly. Once chilled, take the cake out and apply a final layer of cream cheese frosting on top, smoothing it out with an offset spatula.

Finally, it’s time for decoration. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes generously over the top of the cake and press a few whole candy canes into the sides as a finishing touch. This adds a festive look and completes the holiday charm of the cake.

How to Serve Candy Cane Layered Cake

When serving your Candy Cane Layered Cake, it’s essential to let it sit at room temperature for a bit after taking it from the fridge. This allows the frosting to soften slightly and enhances the overall flavor and texture. Slice the cake into wedges and serve on individual plates for a delightful presentation.

You can also drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce on the plates or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast to the peppermint flavors. The combination of creamy ice cream and moist cake makes for an unforgettable dessert experience.

For a holiday gathering, consider placing the cake on a decorative stand in the center of the table. Let your guests help themselves, allowing them to enjoy the festive spirit with this special dessert.

What to Serve with Candy Cane Layered Cake

Candy Cane Layered Cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of festive drinks. Hot cocoa or peppermint hot chocolate can enhance the holiday vibes. The richness of the chocolate drinks complements the peppermint flavor beautifully.

Additionally, you might consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad. The fruity freshness can balance the sweetness of the cake while providing a light, refreshing contrast. You can also offer a selection of teas or even coffee to add to your guests’ enjoyment of the cake.

How to Store Candy Cane Layered Cake

To store your leftover Candy Cane Layered Cake, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help keep the cake fresh, preventing it from drying out. It can be stored for up to a week, though it’s best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal flavor and texture.

If you happen to have a lot of leftovers, you can freeze pieces of the cake. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. This will protect them from freezer burn, and they can last up to three months.

When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight or leave them at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Tips to Make Candy Cane Layered Cake

To ensure your Candy Cane Layered Cake turns out perfect, keep a few tips in mind. First, make sure all dairy products, like butter and eggs, are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and leads to a better texture.

Measure your flour accurately, leveling it with a knife. Too much flour can make the cake dense. Always sift the flour and dry ingredients to prevent lumps, especially with icing sugar.

When cutting the cake into layers, use a serrated knife for clean cuts. Take your time during this step to maintain the integrity of the cake.

Lastly, be gentle when frosting the cake to achieve a smooth finish. Using an offset spatula can help spread the frostings evenly and create an appealing look.

Variation

While the classic Candy Cane Layered Cake is fantastic on its own, you can experiment with variations. Consider adding food coloring to your frosting to create fun designs. For a more colorful cake, alternate layers of white and colored frosting, or create swirls.

If you prefer other flavor profiles, try incorporating white chocolate into the cream cheese frosting or using chocolate cake layers instead of vanilla. Swirling in some raspberry or strawberry preserves between the layers can also add a delightful fruitiness.

Best Time to Make Candy Cane Layered Cake

The best time to make Candy Cane Layered Cake is during the holiday season, from late November to early January. This cake really shines at festive gatherings, such as Christmas parties, New Year’s celebrations, or even a winter birthday. It’s a treat that embraces the flavors of the season, making it a perfect addition to any holiday menu.

However, any time you crave a sweet treat will serve fine to make this cake. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual family dinner, this cake will bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making Candy Cane Layered Cake, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. One issue is overmixing the batter. This can lead to a dense cake, so mix until just combined when adding the dry ingredients.

Another mistake is not greasing the cake pans adequately. This can cause the cakes to stick and break apart during removal. Always use parchment paper along with greasing the pans for easy release.

Additionally, be sure not to skip chilling the frosted cake. This step is crucial if you want to keep the frosting from sliding off when serving. Giving it the time to set makes for a much prettier presentation.

Nutritional Notes

Candy Cane Layered Cake can be a delightful indulgence, especially during festive occasions. Be aware that while it’s a tasty treat, it’s also high in sugar and calories.

A typical slice of this treat might contain around 400-500 calories, depending on the thickness and amount of frosting. If you’re mindful of sugar intake, consider enjoying smaller portions or sharing with others.

However, this cake can easily be adapted to cater to dietary needs by substituting ingredients accordingly. You might use whole grain flour, reduce the sugar content, or try sugar alternatives to lower the calorie count.

FAQs

Q: Can I use low-fat ingredients in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute low-fat versions of sour cream, milk, or even butter. However, keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste and texture.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost them just before serving. Alternatively, you can freeze the layers and frost them after thawing.

Q: Is this cake suitable for kids?
A: Yes! The Candy Cane Layered Cake is suitable for all ages. The sweet flavors and festive decorations make it a hit with children during holiday gatherings.

conclusion

Candy Cane Layered Cake is an emblem of holiday joy and celebration. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it a perfect centerpiece for any festive table. Mixing the minty sweetness with classic vanilla cake brings together the essence of the season in every slice.

Whether sharing with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment with a slice and a warm drink, this cake will undoubtedly leave lasting memories and smiles. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create your magical Candy Cane Layered Cake experience. Happy baking!