Minecraft Cake Recipe: 7 Easy Steps For Blocky Chocolate Cake
Bring the pixelated charm of Minecraft to your celebration with this moist, chocolatey cake topped with simple buttercream and marzipan decorations.
Image: HearthJunction Design Team
Minecraft Cake: Step-by-Step Recipe for a Blocky Delight
If you’re looking to bring the pixelated magic of Minecraft to your next celebration, nothing does the trick like a homemade Minecraft cake. Inspired by the iconic in-game cake block, this recipe uses two layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy buttercream frosting, and simple marzipan decorations to capture the essence of Minecraft in edible form. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at cake decorating for the first time, this approachable guide will help you create a dessert that looks fantastic and tastes delicious too.
Why Make a Minecraft Cake?
- It’s a show-stopper for birthdays, especially for young gamers and fans of Minecraft.
- The design is simple but instantly recognizable, making it easy for beginners.
- Moist chocolate cake layers paired with a sweet buttercream frosting appeal to both kids and adults.
- Decorating with marzipan or fondant squares is fun and customizable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chocolate Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk (plus more as needed)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Decorations
- Marzipan or ready-to-roll fondant (white and red)
- Red food coloring (if coloring marzipan yourself)
- Optional: chocolate-covered graham crackers for edging
Equipment Checklist
- Two 9-inch square cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
How to Make a Minecraft Cake
1. Prepare the Cake Pans
Grease two 9-inch square cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal, and lightly flour the pans.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well.
4. Add Boiling Water
Slowly pour in the boiling water while mixing. The batter will look thin, but this is normal. Stir until fully combined.
5. Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Buttercream Frosting
- Beat softened butter in a large bowl until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Slowly add milk until desired consistency is reached – the frosting should be smooth and spreadable.
7. Assemble the Cake
- Once cakes are completely cool, place one layer on the serving plate.
- Spread a thick even layer of buttercream on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides generously, smoothing with an offset spatula.
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Decorating Your Minecraft Cake
Creating the Iconic Topping
The distinguishing feature of a Minecraft cake is its pixelated white and red square topping. Here’s how to achieve the look:
- Roll out white marzipan or fondant to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut into small squares (about 1/2 inch) to mimic pixels.
- Do the same with red marzipan or fondant. If using natural marzipan, knead in red food coloring until vibrant.
- Arrange the white squares over the top of the cake, covering the surface in a grid pattern.
- Scatter the red squares randomly on top, just as they appear in the game.
Optional: Edging with Chocolate Squares
For extra authenticity, line the sides of the cake with square, chocolate-covered graham crackers or cookies. This adds a fun, blocky look reminiscent of Minecraft’s building style and a tasty crunch.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- If time is short, you can use a boxed chocolate cake mix and store-bought frosting.
- Make sure cakes are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting the buttercream.
- Use a hot, clean knife to slice the cake for neater pieces.
- Fondant or marzipan decorations can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container until ready to use.
- For an added touch, create a grassy effect around the cake’s base with green-tinted coconut flakes.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sugar | 38g |
(Values approximate, will vary based on brands and serving size.)
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Minecraft cake with themed party accessories for a memorable celebration.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
- Include other Minecraft-inspired treats, like “creeper” cupcakes or block-shaped cookies.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Guide
- Make Ahead: The cake layers and marzipan decorations can be prepared a day ahead and kept wrapped at room temperature.
- Storage: Store the finished cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
- Freezing: The unfrosted cake layers freeze well; wrap tightly in plastic and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before assembling.
Variations and Customization Ideas
- Different Flavors: Try using vanilla or red velvet cake for a twist.
- Vegan/Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based milk and butter alternatives in both cake and frosting.
- Alternative Decorations: Use red fruit roll-ups or strawberry fruit leather instead of marzipan for the red pixels; ready-made fondant works well too.
- 3D Approach: Stack and carve additional cake layers for a more “cube-like” 3D cake, and decorate all sides with edible squares for even more Minecraft authenticity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How hard is it to make a Minecraft cake at home?
It’s easier than it looks! This recipe is designed for beginners, with simple techniques and straightforward ingredients. The key is assembling and decorating with patience, but the pixelated design is quite forgiving.
What if I don’t have marzipan or fondant?
Use fruit roll-ups for the red squares and white chocolate or even mini marshmallows for the white. The look will still be instantly recognizable and tasty.
Can I use a different cake flavor?
Absolutely. This recipe works with any favorite cake flavor, including vanilla, red velvet, or even a gluten-free mix if needed.
Are there shortcuts for a no-bake version?
You can use store-bought cake layers or a pound cake, simply focusing your efforts on the decorating for a quick, festive treat.
How do I get sharp edges like in the game?
Use a firm cake and plenty of buttercream, smoothing with an offset spatula or bench scraper. If you want super defined edges, refrigerate the cake briefly to let the buttercream set, then go over it again for crisp corners.
Conclusion
With its pixel-perfect design and moist, chocolatey layers, this Minecraft cake is sure to delight fans of all ages. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your decorations or to adapt the recipe to your taste and skill level. Whether it’s for a birthday party, game night, or simply because you love Minecraft, this cake will be a memorable centerpiece—both in looks and flavor!
Quick Reference: Minecraft Cake Assembly Steps
- Bake two square chocolate cake layers and cool completely.
- Prepare buttercream frosting and marzipan squares in white and red.
- Stack and frost the cake layers, covering the cake smoothly.
- Arrange white marzipan squares on top, scatter red squares for the pixel effect.
- Optional: Add chocolate-covered graham crackers to the sides to mimic the cake’s blocky base.
- Serve and enjoy your edible Minecraft creation!
References
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