Ingredients:
For the Cake:
1 box Betty Crocker Super Moist Devil’s Food Cake Mix
Corresponding amounts of water, vegetable oil, and eggs as specified on the cake mix box
For the Frosting and Embellishments:
1 tub (16 oz) Betty Crocker Rich & Creamy Chocolate Frosting
Chocolate cookie crumbs (for creating the “soil”)
Betty Crocker Green Decorating Icing (to craft “grass”)
PEEPS marshmallow bunnies or a selection of homemade funny and festive edible pieces (think fondant carrots, candy flowers, or edible glitter)
Directions:
Baking the Base: Start by heating your oven according to the guidelines on the cake mix box. Grease only the bottom of a 13×9-inch pan and follow the box instructions to make and bake the cake. After baking, let the cake cool completely, which should take about 30 minutes.
Applying Frosting: Once cool, blanket the cake with the chocolate frosting, creating a smooth layer. Scatter the chocolate cookie crumbs over this to mimic a bed of “soil.”
Crafting the Scenery: Employ the green icing with a special piping tip to simulate tufts of grass. Strategically pipe around the perimeter and in rows across the cake to resemble a garden.
Adding Characters: Anchor your PEEPS marshmallow bunnies or your choice of funny, thematic edible pieces into the cake. If not using PEEPS, you can mold fondant into shapes relevant to the event, whether it’s Easter eggs, blooming flowers, or even playful bugs for a garden theme.
Extra Creativity: Feel free to enhance your garden with additional edible decorations like candy pebbles or jellybean paths to bring more life and color to your edible landscape.
Ready to Serve: When it’s time to dig in, slice the cake into portions, ensuring each piece includes a bit of the garden and a decorative element.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 Hr 20 Min | Servings: 12 to 15
This versatile PEEPS Easter Garden Cake recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a canvas for your creativity. Perfect for Easter or any springtime event, this festive treat starts with a devilishly good chocolate cake and is transformed into a delightful garden scene with chocolate frosting “soil” and vibrant icing “grass.” The real charm comes in decorating: go classic with PEEPS bunnies or let your imagination bloom with handcrafted edible decor suited to any occasion. Engage the kids in crafting fondant shapes or sprinkle the scene with candy delights—either way, this dessert is sure to be a heartwarming centerpiece for your celebration.
Tips and Tricks :
If you’re new to cake decorating, don’t hesitate to use ready-made decorations for convenience.
For those who enjoy DIY, use food coloring to dye shredded coconut for an alternative “grass” effect.
To involve kids in the kitchen, prepare a variety of decorations and let their imaginations run wild placing them on the cake.
Serving Suggestions :
Serve this festive cake as the grand finale to your Easter brunch or dinner. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for the little ones.
Storage Instructions :
If you have leftovers, cover the cake with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate for up to a week, ensuring that the decorations are well protected to maintain their appearance.
This Easter Garden Cake recipe embodies the spirit of spring – a season for new beginnings and creativity. Each component, from the rich chocolate base to the decorative “garden,” invites you to add a personal touch, making the baking experience as enjoyable as the eating. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at decorating for the first time, this recipe is a fun and festive way to welcome the joy of Easter into your home.