Modern Character Birthday Cake with Black & Teal Frosting

Ingredients

• • 2 ⅞ cups all-purpose flour
• • 1 ⅞ cups granulated sugar
• • 1 ⅞ tsp baking powder
• • ⅞ tsp salt
• • 1 ⅞ cup whole milk
• • ⅞ cup vegetable oil
• • 3 ⅞ large eggs
• • 1 ⅞ tbsp vanilla extract
• • ⅞ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• • 2 ⅞ cups powdered sugar
• • ⅞ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• • 2 ⅞ tbsp black food coloring
• • 1 ⅞ cups powdered sugar
• • ⅞ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• • 2 ⅞ tbsp teal food coloring
• • 1 ⅞ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. 1

   Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, mix milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.

2. 2

   Divide batter evenly between two greased 9-inch pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely on wire racks.

3. 3

   In a stand mixer, cream softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Add black food coloring and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and spreadable.

4. 4

   Repeat the same process with a new bowl, substituting black food coloring with teal. Ensure both frostings reach a consistent piping texture.

5. 5

   Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of black frosting. Top with second layer and cover the cake with remaining black frosting using an offset spatula.

6. 6

   Fit piping bags with star tips and fill with teal frosting. Pipe intricate swirls and patterns over the cake's surface. Add character details using a toothpick for precision.