Name: Piñata Cake Recipe
Prep time: 4 h 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 4 h 55 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For Cake:; 3¾ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ tsp baking powder; ¾ tsp Baking Soda; 1 tsp salt; 1½ cups unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 4 large egg yolks; 3 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1½ cups buttermilk; For Chocolate Frosting & Assembly:; 1 cup unsalted butter; 4½ cups confectioners’ sugar; ¾ cup natural unsweetened; ½ cup whole milk; 1 tbsp light corn syrup; 1½ tsp pure vanilla extract; ⅛ tsp salt; 2 cups assorted candies; additional sprinkles or candies

This piñata cake recipe is a delightful surprise for both your senses and taste buds. It's a fun and festive cake that's perfect for birthdays or any special occasion. The cake itself is tender and moist, filled with a secret stash of candies that spills out once you cut into it. The chocolate frosting adds a sweet and creamy layer to the cake, making it irresistible.

Photos of Piñata Cake Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry, you might want to pay special attention to buttermilk and light corn syrup. Buttermilk brings a slight tang to the cake and makes it incredibly moist. If you don't have it at home, you can find it in the dairy section of any supermarket. Light corn syrup, on the other hand, is used in the frosting for its ability to make it smooth and glossy. You can find it in the baking aisle.

Key Ingredients for Piñata Cake Recipe

All-purpose flour: A common baking ingredient that provides structure to the cake.

Baking powder and baking soda: These are leavening agents that help the cake rise.

Salt: Enhances the other flavors in the cake.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moistness to the cake.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps in browning.

Eggs: Provide structure and moistness to the cake.

Vanilla extract: Adds flavor.

Buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor and makes the cake tender.

Confectioners’ sugar: Used in the frosting for a smooth texture.

Natural unsweetened: This refers to unsweetened cocoa powder for the chocolate frosting.

Whole milk: Adds richness to the frosting.

Light corn syrup: Gives a glossy finish to the frosting.

Assorted candies: Hidden inside the cake for a fun surprise.

One reader, Dario Lindberg says:

This piñata cake recipe is a game-changer! The cake turned out moist and delicious, and the surprise candy filling was a hit with everyone. The chocolate frosting was the perfect finishing touch. It was a showstopper at the party and tasted as good as it looked. Highly recommended!

Dario Lindberg

Techniques Required for Making a Piñata Cake

How to prepare cake batter: Mixing the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then combining them gradually to create a smooth, velvety, and slightly thick batter.

How to test for cake doneness: Inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake to check if it comes out clean, indicating that the cake is fully baked.

How to assemble the cake: Cutting holes in two of the cake layers, then stacking and frosting the layers, filling the cavity with candies, and decorating with frosting and additional candies.

How To Make Piñata Cake

Bring on the wow factor with this chocolate piñata cake that has an exciting sweet surprise inside! Made with moist vanilla cake layers and fudge frosting.

Preparation: 4 hours 30 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 4 hours 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cake:

3¾cupsall-purpose flour,sifted, spoon and leveled
¾tspbaking powder
¾tspBaking Soda
1tspsalt
1½cupsunsalted butter,(3 sticks), softened to room temperature
2cupsgranulated sugar
3large eggs,room temperature
4large egg yolks,room temperature
3tsppure vanilla extract
1½cupsbuttermilk,room temperature

For Chocolate Frosting & Assembly:

1cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
4½cupsconfectioners’ sugar
¾cupnatural unsweetened,Dutch-process cocoa powder
½cupwhole milk
1tbsplight corn syrup
1½tsppure vanilla extract
⅛tspsalt
2cupsassorted candies,such as M&Ms, chocolate chips, sprinkles, gummy bears, jelly beans, candy corns, chopped candy bars, mini Reese̱s cups etc.
additional sprinkles or candies,for decorating the cake, optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and lightly flour 4 9-inch cake pans (or four 8-inch cake pans but the bake time will be slightly longer).

Cake:

Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl. Set aside.
Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high speed for about 1 minute until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and beat on high speed for about 5 minutes until creamed together fairly well. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
At medium-high speed, add 1 whole egg at a time, beating well after each addition until all 3 whole eggs are mixed in. Then, repeat with each egg yolk until all 4 egg yolks are mixed in. Beat in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, and mixing each addition just until incorporated; do not overmix this batter. The batter will be smooth, velvety, and slightly thick. Spoon/pour batter evenly into each cake pan.
Bake for about 25 minutes or until the cakes are baked through. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it is done. Allow cakes to cool completely in the pans set on a wire rack. The cakes must be completely cool before frosting and assembling.

Frosting:

Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter at high speed for about about 2 minutes until pale, smooth, and creamy.
Using a fine mesh strainer or sieve, sift the confectioners’ sugar and cocoa together. Add the sugar/cocoa mixture to the butter, then beat on low speed for about 20 seconds. Stop the mixer, then add the milk, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes. If the frosting is too thick, beat in an extra splash of milk.

To Assemble the Cake:

Grab a 3½- to 4-inch circle cookie cutter and cut a hole into two of the cake layers. Alternatively, cut a piece of parchment paper that size and use a sharp knife to trace/cut the holes.
Place one of the whole cakes on a cake stand or serving plate. Use an offset spatula or knife to frost the top of the cake, then place one of the cut/holed cakes on top. Frost the top and inside the cavity.
Place the other cut/holed cake on top and, once again, frost the top and inside the cavity. Fill the cavity with candies all the way up to the top. Place the last whole cake on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
Decorate with frosting and any dditional candies. Use1M tip to pipe frosting around the top. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 750.07kcal
Fat: 38.02g
Saturated Fat: 23.07g
Trans Fat: 1.17g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.60g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.79g
Carbohydrates: 100.12g
Fiber: 2.07g
Sugar: 74.90g
Protein: 7.09g
Cholesterol: 158.93mg
Sodium: 310.57mg
Calcium: 82.72mg
Potassium: 184.14mg
Iron: 2.40mg
Vitamin A: 280.52µg
Vitamin C: 0.23mg

Technique Tip for Creating the Perfect Piñata Cake

When making the piñata cake, it's crucial to ensure that the cakes are completely cooled before you begin the frosting and assembly process. If the cakes are still warm, the frosting can melt and make the cake layers slide, which could cause the candies inside to spill out. Additionally, when filling the cavity with candies, try to use a variety of sizes and shapes. This will create a more exciting 'piñata' effect when the cake is cut into.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the cake layers and frosting a day in advance to save time on the day of assembly.

Use store-bought frosting: If you're short on time, consider using store-bought frosting instead of making it from scratch.

Organize ingredients: Before you start baking, make sure all your ingredients are measured and organized to streamline the process.

Bake in advance: Bake the cake layers ahead of time and freeze them until you're ready to assemble the piñata cake.

Assembly line: Enlist the help of friends or family members to assist with the assembly process, making it quicker and more enjoyable.

Efficient decorating: Opt for simple and quick decorating techniques such as using pre-made candies and sprinkles to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Piñata Cake Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with cake flour: Cake flour has a lower protein content, resulting in a lighter and more tender cake texture.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder by using a smaller amount and adding an acid, such as buttermilk or yogurt, to activate it.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda by using a larger amount and adjusting the acidity in the recipe.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter in baking, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
granulated sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar can be used as a substitute for granulated sugar, adding a richer flavor and moisture to the cake.
large eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a substitute for eggs to add moisture and binding properties to the cake.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk + vinegar or lemon juice: Adding vinegar or lemon juice to milk can mimic the tangy flavor and acidity of buttermilk in the recipe.
unsweetened chocolate - Substitute with cocoa powder + fat: Mixing cocoa powder with a small amount of fat, such as butter or oil, can replace unsweetened chocolate in the recipe.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a substitute for whole milk, especially for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option.
light corn syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a substitute for light corn syrup, providing sweetness and moisture to the frosting.
assorted candies - Substitute with chocolate chips: Chocolate chips can be used as a substitute for assorted candies, adding a rich and indulgent flavor to the cake.

Best Way to Present a Piñata Cake

Elevate the cake layers: Stack the cake layers with precision and ensure they are perfectly aligned to create a visually stunning and professional presentation.
Incorporate a variety of candies: Use a diverse selection of candies to fill the cavity of the cake, adding pops of color and texture to the presentation.
Artful frosting application: Employ a steady hand to apply the frosting, ensuring a smooth and flawless finish on the cake's exterior.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance by delicately placing edible flowers on top of the cake, enhancing its visual appeal and adding a subtle floral aroma.
Use a cake stand: Present the piñata cake on a beautiful cake stand to elevate its appearance and make it the focal point of the table.
Incorporate gold leaf accents: For a touch of luxury, delicately place gold leaf accents on the cake, adding a shimmering and opulent touch to the overall presentation.
Create a symmetrical design: Pay attention to the placement of candies and decorations to ensure a balanced and visually appealing design that showcases precision and attention to detail.
Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the cake with powdered sugar to add a touch of elegance and create a beautiful contrast against the frosting.
Use a decorative cake knife: When serving the cake, use a decorative cake knife to add an extra element of sophistication to the presentation.
Serve with a side of whipped cream: Accompany the piñata cake with a side of whipped cream in a decorative bowl, adding an extra element of indulgence and visual interest to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making a Piñata Cake

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food.
Cake pans: Round pans used for baking cakes, available in various sizes.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients.
Handheld or stand mixer: Electric kitchen appliances used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
Paddle attachment: An attachment for a stand mixer used for mixing cake batters and cookie dough.
Rubber spatula: A flexible kitchen tool used for scraping bowls and folding ingredients together.
Wire rack: A metal rack used for cooling baked goods and allowing air to circulate around them.
Fine mesh strainer or sieve: A tool used for sifting dry ingredients and removing lumps from powdered ingredients.
Offset spatula or knife: A kitchen tool with a long, narrow blade used for spreading and smoothing frosting on cakes.
3½- to 4-inch circle cookie cutter: A tool used for cutting out cake layers to create a cavity for filling.
1M tip: A specific piping tip used for creating decorative frosting designs.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Piñata Cake

Let the cake layers cool completely before frosting and assembling the cake. Once assembled, cover the cake tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
If you have leftover cake, cover and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
You can freeze the cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling and frosting.
You can also freeze the fully assembled and decorated cake for up to 3 months. Place the cake in the freezer for 1 hour to set the frosting, then wrap the whole thing very tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.
If you're making the cake ahead of time and need to freeze it for longer, you can freeze the assembled cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to serve, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before slicing and enjoying.

How To Reheat Leftover Piñata Cake

To reheat leftover piñata cake, first ensure that the cake has been stored properly in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
For a quick and easy method, place a slice of the cake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Check the cake's temperature and adjust the time accordingly, as microwaves vary in power. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it may become rubbery or dry.
For a more even reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Heat the cake in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until it is warmed through. This method helps to maintain the cake's texture and prevents it from becoming too moist or soggy.
If you have a toaster oven, you can also use it to reheat your piñata cake. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of the cake on a small baking sheet or aluminum foil. Heat the cake for 3-5 minutes, or until it is warmed to your liking.
For a more indulgent treat, try reheating your leftover piñata cake in a skillet with a touch of butter. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place a slice of the cake in the skillet and heat it for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it is warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If your leftover piñata cake has dried out slightly, you can revive it by brushing it with a simple syrup made from equal parts water and sugar. Heat the syrup in the microwave or on the stovetop until the sugar has dissolved, then brush it lightly over the cake before reheating it using one of the methods mentioned above.

Random Fact About Piñata Cakes

The piñata cake is a fun and festive dessert that originated in Mexico. It is traditionally filled with candies and treats, and is often used as a centerpiece for celebrations such as birthdays and fiestas. The cake is designed to be broken open, symbolizing the breaking of a piñata, and the surprise inside adds an element of excitement to the occasion. This cake is not only delicious but also adds an element of fun and surprise to any celebration.

Is Making a Piñata Cake Economical for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this piñata cake recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. While the cake requires standard baking ingredients, the assortment of candies and additional decorations may increase the overall cost. However, the impressive visual appeal and delightful surprise element make it a worthwhile investment for special occasions. Rating: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4: $30-$40.

Is This Cake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This piñata cake recipe is quite indulgent and not particularly healthy. Here are a few reasons why:

The cake itself is made with a significant amount of butter, sugar, and refined flour, which are high in calories and low in nutrients
The chocolate frosting also contains a lot of butter and sugar, as well as corn syrup, which is a highly processed sweetener
The cake is filled and decorated with candies, which are essentially empty calories with little to no nutritional value

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of sugar in the cake and frosting, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead
Use Greek yogurt or mashed avocado in place of some of the butter to reduce the saturated fat content
Fill the cake with fresh fruit instead of candies for a boost of vitamins and antioxidants
Use dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) for the frosting, as it contains more beneficial compounds than milk chocolate
Limit the amount of frosting and decorations used, as they are the most calorie-dense components of the cake

By making these adjustments, you can create a piñata cake that is still festive and delicious but slightly more balanced in terms of nutrition. However, it's important to remember that this type of cake is still best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular indulgence.

Editor's Thoughts on This Unique Cake Recipe

The piñata cake recipe is a delightful and whimsical creation that promises a burst of surprise and joy with every slice. The moist and velvety cake layers are perfectly complemented by the rich and creamy chocolate frosting, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The addition of assorted candies adds a playful element, making it a perfect centerpiece for any celebration. The detailed instructions ensure a successful baking experience, making this recipe a delightful choice for both experienced bakers and beginners. Overall, this piñata cake is a true showstopper that will bring smiles to everyone who indulges in its delightful sweetness.

Enhance Your Piñata Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese and chives, served in a fluffy cloud-like mound.

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears lightly charred and drizzled with a balsamic glaze, creating the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

Fruit Salad: A vibrant and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, tossed in a zesty citrus dressing and garnished with fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to a Piñata Cake

Stuffed Bell Peppers: These stuffed bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and seasonings, then topped with melted cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Mango Salsa: This refreshing mango salsa is the perfect combination of sweet and spicy, with fresh mango, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice. It's great as a topping for grilled fish or chicken, or as a dip with tortilla chips.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Indulge in this creamy and decadent chicken alfredo pasta, made with tender pieces of chicken, fettuccine pasta, and a rich homemade alfredo sauce. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve With a Piñata Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy and cheesy goodness of this spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips for dipping. A crowd-pleasing appetizer that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy, indulgent, and satisfying, this dish combines tender chicken with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and every bite is a delight.

Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef, cooked to perfection and smothered in a savory and creamy mushroom sauce, served over a bed of fluffy egg noodles. This classic dish is comforting, hearty, and full of flavor.

Why trust this Piñata Cake Recipe:

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, using only the finest ingredients to ensure a delectable result. The cake is made with unsalted butter for rich flavor, and the frosting is a perfect blend of confectioners' sugar and cocoa. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, and the final touch of assorted candies adds a playful and delightful surprise. With its impeccable balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is a testament to the art of baking and is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Want to share your experience making this fun and festive piñata cake? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

What is a piñata cake?

A piñata cake is a fun and festive cake that is filled with candies or other surprises. It is typically made by layering cake with a hollowed-out center, filling the cavity with candies, and then frosting the cake to conceal the surprise inside.

Can I use different types of candies for the piñata cake?

Absolutely! You can use any type of candies or small treats that you prefer. Popular choices include M&M's, Skittles, gummy bears, or any other small candies that you enjoy.

How far in advance can I make a piñata cake?

You can bake the cake layers and prepare the frosting a day in advance. However, it's best to assemble the piñata cake on the day you plan to serve it to ensure that the candies inside stay fresh and the cake remains moist.

Can I make the piñata cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of the piñata cake by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Just ensure that all other ingredients, including the candies, are also gluten-free.

How should I store a piñata cake?

Once assembled, store the piñata cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight cake container to prevent the cake from drying out. Remember to bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.