Imagine a dessert that's not just a cake, but a magical journey of flavor and imagination! This Sailboat and Teddy Bears Cake is the ultimate showstopper that will transform your ordinary dessert time into an extraordinary adventure. Perfect for children's parties, nautical-themed celebrations, or anyone who wants to bring a touch of whimsy to their dessert table, this cake is more than just a treat—it's a delicious work of art that promises to delight both kids and adults alike.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 can vanilla frosting
- Colored sprinkles
- Gummy teddy bears
- Decorative sailboat toppers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch rectangular baking pan, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer to blend ingredients on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it smoothly and eliminate any air bubbles.
- Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for approximately 45-60 minutes. Ensure the cake is at room temperature before decorating.
- Once cooled, spread vanilla frosting evenly across the entire surface of the cake using an offset spatula or butter knife.
- Decorate the cake by strategically placing decorative sailboat toppers on one side of the cake to create a nautical scene.
- Sprinkle colored sprinkles around the sailboat area to enhance the maritime theme and add visual interest.
- Carefully place gummy teddy bears around the cake, positioning them in playful poses to complement the sailboat decoration.
- Refrigerate the cake for 15-20 minutes to allow the frosting to set and help decorations adhere properly.
- Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften the frosting and ensure optimal flavor and texture.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother, more consistent cake batter.
- Even Baking: Rotate your cake pan halfway through baking to ensure uniform heat distribution and prevent uneven browning.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding off.
- Decorating Precision: Use a piping bag or offset spatula for more controlled and professional-looking frosting application.
- Sprinkle Strategy: Add sprinkles while the frosting is still slightly soft to help them adhere better.
- Gummy Bear Placement: Arrange teddy bears at different angles for a more playful and dynamic look.
- Make Ahead: This cake can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making party planning easier.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different cake flavors or frosting colors to match your theme.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 55mg
