Easy Unicorn Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide for Home Bakers

How to Make Unicorn Cake at Home Easily?

Engaging the Magic in Your Kitchen

Creating a unicorn cake at home is not just about baking; it’s about bringing a piece of fantasy into the real world. This guide is designed to walk you through the process of making a unicorn cake easily at home, ensuring that every step is filled with fun, creativity, and a touch of magic. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice eager to try something new, this article will provide you with all the information you need to create a stunning unicorn cake that will be the centerpiece of any celebration.

Introduction to Unicorn Cakes

Unveiling the Enchantment

What is a Unicorn Cake? A unicorn cake is a vibrant, whimsical creation, often characterized by its pastel colors, intricate icing decorations such as a unicorn horn, ears, and sometimes even eyelashes, making it a favorite for parties and special occasions. The popularity of unicorn cakes has soared in recent years, thanks to their visually striking appearance and the joy they bring to both children and adults alike.

Planning Your Unicorn Cake

Planning your unicorn cake involves several fun and creative steps. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, special occasion, or just for fun, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you create a magical unicorn cake.

1. Design and Inspiration

• Theme and Colors: Decide on the theme and color palette. Unicorn cakes often feature pastel colors, but feel free to choose any colors you love.
• Cake Topper: Consider whether you want to use a ready-made unicorn topper or create one from fondant or modeling chocolate.
• Size and Shape: Determine the size of the cake based on the number of guests. Unicorn cakes can be single-tiered or multi-tiered.

2. Ingredients and Tools

• Cake: Choose your favorite cake flavor. Vanilla, chocolate, and rainbow sponge cakes are popular choices.
• Frosting: Buttercream is versatile for both filling and covering the cake. You might also need black icing for details and various colors to match your theme.
• Decorations: Edible glitter, gold leaf, and colorful sprinkles can add a magical touch.
• Tools: You’ll need cake pans, a cake leveler or knife, piping bags, various piping tips (star and round), and fondant tools if you’re making a fondant topper.

For a detailed list and preparation tips, check out How to Make Unicorn Cake.

3. Baking the Cake

• Preparation: Preheat your oven according to the recipe. Prepare your cake pans with non-stick spray or parchment paper.
• Baking: Follow your chosen cake recipe. If you’re making a layered cake, you may need to bake in batches.
• Cooling: Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling to prevent the frosting from melting.

divide your batter and color each portion before baking. For baking tips and techniques, visit The Ultimate Guide to Baking Cakes.

4. Assembling the Cake

• Leveling: Use a cake leveler or knife to trim the tops of the cakes to make them flat and even.
• Layering: Place the first layer on a cake board, spread frosting evenly, then continue stacking the layers.
• Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting around the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Chill the cake for about 30 minutes before applying the final coat of frosting.

5. Decorating

• Frosting: Apply the final coat of frosting. Use a spatula or cake scraper to smooth it out.
• Details: Pipe the eyes, ears, and horn details using black and colored icing. You can also add fondant ears and a horn if preferred.
• Mane: Pipe colorful buttercream swirls and rosettes around the top and down one side of the cake to create the unicorn’s mane. Add sprinkles or edible glitter for extra sparkle.

see Decorate Unicorn Cake with Buttercream and Make Unicorn Cake Horn Guide.

6. Final Touches

• Presentation: Place the cake on a decorative stand or plate. You can also add a personalized message or name with icing.
• Storage: Keep the cake refrigerated until it’s time to serve. This helps maintain its shape and freshness.

Tips

• Practice piping techniques on parchment paper before decorating the actual cake.
• If using fondant decorations, make them a day ahead to allow them to harden slightly.
• Be creative and have fun with the design. There’s no right or wrong way to create your unicorn cake!

Enjoy the process of making your unicorn cake, and don’t forget to take pictures of your magical creation!

Designing Your Unicorn Cake

Designing your unicorn cake is an exciting process that allows for creativity and personalization. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you design a magical and visually stunning unicorn cake.

1. Choose Your Cake Flavor and Color

• Flavor: Decide on the cake flavor. Popular choices include vanilla, chocolate, red velvet, or even a funfetti cake for an extra splash of color.
• Color: If you’re opting for a rainbow or colored layers inside, plan your colors. Use gel food coloring for vibrant results without altering the cake batter consistency.

2. Sketch Your Design

• Take a moment to sketch your cake. This doesn’t have to be a masterpiece, but a simple drawing to guide your decoration process. Include the shape of the cake, color scheme, placement of the horn, ears, and eyes, as well as how you envision the mane and any additional decorative elements.

3. Plan the Mane

• The mane is a focal point of your unicorn cake. Decide on the colors and types of piping tips you’ll use to create the mane’s texture. Swirls, stars, and rosettes are popular choices. Consider incorporating multiple colors to create a vibrant, flowing mane.

4. Decide on the Horn and Ears

• Horn: You can make the horn from fondant or buy a pre-made edible horn. For a fondant horn, color your fondant accordingly, shape it into a cone, and then twist it to create the spiral effect. Insert a skewer or a piece of spaghetti to help it stand upright on the cake.
• Ears: Plan for two fondant ears, tinted in your base cake color with a pinch of pink in the center. You can shape these by hand or use a template.

5. Eyes and Eyelashes

• The eyes and eyelashes add character to your unicorn cake. Decide whether you’ll pipe these on with black icing or use edible markers for more precision. The classic closed eyelash look is a popular choice, offering a serene and whimsical expression.

6. Additional Decorations

• Consider any additional decorations that will complement your theme. This could include flowers, stars, edible glitter, or even a personalized message piped on the cake board.

7. Finalize Your Color Palette

• With all elements considered, finalize your color palette. Pastels are traditionally used for unicorn cakes, but don’t be afraid to choose colors that match your event or personal preference.

8. Gather Your Materials

• Once your design is finalized, make a list of all the materials you’ll need, including cake ingredients, fondant, food coloring, piping bags and tips, and any decorative elements. This ensures you have everything ready before you start baking and decorating.

Tips for Success

• Practice: If you’re trying new techniques, practice on a plate or parchment paper before applying them to the cake.
• Patience: Allow each layer of decoration to set before adding more. This is especially important for layered fondant elements.
• Creativity: Don’t be afraid to adjust your design as you go. Sometimes the best details are spontaneous!

Designing your unicorn cake is a personal and creative process. Enjoy making your vision come to life, and remember, the most important part is to have fun and enjoy your beautiful creation!

Baking the Cake

Baking the cake is a fundamental step in creating your unicorn cake. Here’s a guide to help you through the process, ensuring your cake is delicious and ready for decorating.

Ingredients

For a simple vanilla cake (adjust quantities based on your cake size and number of layers):

• 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) milk, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup (180ml) vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

*For a colored cake, you’ll need gel food coloring.

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Cake pans (size based on your design)
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack
• Toothpick or cake tester

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures there are no lumps and helps to incorporate air into the mixture.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and the sugar begins to dissolve.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
5. Color the Batter (Optional): If you’re making a colored cake, divide the batter into separate bowls and add gel food coloring to each, mixing until you achieve the desired colors.

Wilton’s Guide to Food Coloring is a great resource for beginners and experienced bakers alike.

1. Fill the Pans: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans, ensuring they are evenly filled. Tap the pans gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
3. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. The cakes must be completely cool before you start assembling and decorating to prevent the frosting from melting.

Tips for a Perfect Cake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature to achieve a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Bake Evenly: If baking multiple layers at once, rotate the pans halfway through to ensure even baking.
• Cooling Time: Giving the cakes enough time to cool is crucial for easy handling and decorating.

Once your cakes are baked and cooled, you’re ready to move on to assembling and decorating your unicorn cake!

Creating the Unicorn Cake Layers

Creating the unicorn cake layers is a crucial step in assembling your magical cake. This process involves leveling, filling, and stacking your cake layers to form a stable and visually appealing base for your unicorn design. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients and Tools Needed

• Baked Cake Layers: Use your preferred cake recipe. Vanilla or rainbow layers are popular choices for a unicorn cake.
• Buttercream Frosting: You’ll need a generous amount of buttercream for filling, crumb coating, and the final frosting. Vanilla buttercream is a versatile choice that can be colored if desired.
• Serrated Knife or Cake Leveler: For leveling the cake layers.
• Offset Spatula: For spreading the frosting.
• Cake Turntable (optional): Makes it easier to frost the cake.
• Cake Board: To build your cake on. Choose one that’s the same size or slightly larger than your cake layers.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Your Buttercream

• Ensure your buttercream is ready and at a spreadable consistency. If it’s too stiff, you can beat in a little milk or heavy cream to soften it.

2. Level the Cake Layers

• Once your cake layers are completely cooled, use a serrated knife or a cake leveler to remove the domed tops and make each layer flat and even. This ensures your stacked cake is stable and looks professional.

3. Choose Your Base Layer

• Place the first layer on your cake board. If you’re using a cake turntable, place the cake board on the turntable before adding your cake layer.

4. Apply a Layer of Buttercream

• Using an offset spatula, spread an even layer of buttercream over the top of the base layer. The thickness of the buttercream layer is up to you, but about 1/4 to 1/2 inch is typical.

5. Add the Next Cake Layer

• Carefully place the next layer on top of the first, making sure it’s centered and aligned. Press down gently to secure it.

6. Repeat the Process

• Continue layering buttercream and cake layers until all your layers are stacked. If you’re making a rainbow cake, follow the color order you’ve planned for a beautiful cross-section.

7. Apply a Crumb Coat

• Once all layers are stacked, apply a thin layer of buttercream around the entire cake. This is called a crumb coat, and its purpose is to trap any loose crumbs so they don’t appear in the final layer of frosting. After applying the crumb coat, refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes to an hour to set the buttercream.

8. Apply the Final Coat of Frosting

• After the crumb coat is set, apply a final, thicker layer of buttercream over the whole cake. Use an offset spatula and a cake scraper to smooth the sides and top. If you’re planning on adding colored frosting for the mane later, it’s okay if this base layer is white or a light color.

Tips for Success

• Cold Cake Layers: It’s easier to level and stack cake layers when they’re cold, so consider refrigerating them for a bit before assembly.
• Even Buttercream: Aim for an even layer of buttercream between each cake layer to maintain a straight and stable structure.
• Patience with Crumb Coat: Don’t rush the crumb coat process. Giving it time to chill and set will make your final frosting application much smoother.

Once your cake is assembled and frosted, you’re ready to move on to the most exciting part: decorating your unicorn cake!

How to Make Unicorn Cake at Home Easily?

Creating a unicorn cake at home is a fun and rewarding project that can be simplified with the right approach. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to make a beautiful unicorn cake that will impress anyone.

Ingredients and Supplies

Cake

• Your favorite cake mix or homemade cake recipe (vanilla or rainbow are popular choices)
• Ingredients required for the cake mix (usually eggs, oil, and water)

Buttercream Frosting

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 4-5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Salt, to taste
• Gel food coloring (for the mane and any decorative details)

Decorations

• Fondant (white for the horn and ears, plus any additional colors for details)
• Edible gold paint or gold food coloring (for the horn)
• Black icing or edible marker (for the eyes)

Tools

• Cake pans
• Electric mixer
• Piping bags and tips (star and round tips for the mane)
• Rolling pin (for fondant)
• Serrated knife or cake leveler
• Offset spatula or cake scraper

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

• Prepare your cake batter according to the recipe or package instructions. If you want a layered cake, divide the batter among two or three pans.
• Bake as directed until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

2. Make the Buttercream Frosting

• Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, alternating with milk or cream and vanilla, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
• Reserve some white buttercream for the crumb coat and final coat. Divide the remaining frosting into portions to color for the mane.

3. Prepare the Fondant Decorations

• Roll out white fondant and shape it into a horn. Use a skewer to help form the shape and insert it into the cake later. Paint the horn with edible gold paint or color.
• Create two ears from white fondant, adding pink centers if desired. Allow the horn and ears to dry slightly so they hold their shape.

4. Assemble and Frost the Cake

• Level the cooled cake layers with a serrated knife or cake leveler.
• Stack the layers on a cake board, spreading buttercream between each layer.
• Apply a thin crumb coat of white buttercream over the entire cake. Chill for 30 minutes.
• Apply a final coat of buttercream, smoothing it with an offset spatula or cake scraper.

5. Decorate the Cake

• Pipe the colored buttercream around the top and down one side of the cake to create the mane. Use different colors and piping tips to create texture.
• Add the fondant horn and ears to the top of the cake.
• Use black icing or an edible marker to draw the eyes on the front of the cake.

6. Add Finishing Touches

• Use any remaining fondant or buttercream to add flowers, stars, or other decorative elements to the mane.
• Add sprinkles or edible glitter for extra magic.

Tips for Success

• Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.
• If the fondant decorations feel daunting, look for pre-made edible decorations at baking supply stores.
• Practice your piping on parchment paper before starting on the cake.

Creating a unicorn cake at home is all about having fun and letting your creativity shine. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the magic is in the effort and love you put into it. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!

Maintaining the Magic: Storage and Leftovers

Presenting and serving your unicorn cake can be just as magical as the cake itself. Here are some tips and suggestions to make your unicorn cake the star of any gathering or special occasion.

Presentation Tips

1. Cake Stand: Use a decorative cake stand to elevate your unicorn cake. A stand that complements the color scheme of your cake can add an extra touch of elegance.
2. Decorative Table Setting: If you’re serving the cake at a party, consider decorating the table with items that match the unicorn theme. Think about using pastel tablecloths, plates, and napkins, along with unicorn-themed decorations.
3. Edible Glitter and Sparkles: Just before serving, you can add a touch of edible glitter or sparkles to give your cake an extra magical shimmer. Make sure to use products that are safe for consumption.
4. Lighting: Soft, natural lighting can really make the colors of your cake pop. If you’re indoors, consider the placement of the cake to take advantage of the lighting, or use soft artificial lights to create a magical ambiance.
5. Floral Decorations: Fresh or edible flowers can add a whimsical touch to your cake presentation. Choose flowers that match or complement the colors of your cake.

Serving Suggestions

1. Matching Cake Server and Knife: Use a cake server and knife that match or complement your cake stand and overall theme. This small detail can enhance the serving experience.
2. Pre-cut Guide: For a clean presentation, you can lightly score the top of the cake with a knife to indicate where slices should be cut. This is especially helpful for layered cakes to ensure even slices.
3. Serve with Complementary Beverages: Pair your unicorn cake with beverages that match the whimsical theme. Think pink lemonade, sparkling fruit punch, or a colorful mocktail for kids. For adults, a glass of champagne or a light, fruity cocktail can be a nice touch.
4. Individual Plates: Serve each slice on individual plates decorated with a small dollop of colored frosting or edible flowers to carry the theme through to the individual serving.
5. Take-home Boxes: If you have leftover cake, consider providing small take-home boxes for guests. You can decorate these boxes with unicorn stickers or ribbons to match the party theme.

Remember, the key to a successful presentation and serving is in the details. By considering the visual and sensory experience of enjoying the cake, you can create lasting memories for your guests. Enjoy the process of sharing your magical unicorn cake creation!

FAQs About Making Unicorn Cakes

Creating a unicorn cake can spark a lot of questions, especially if it’s your first time tackling this enchanting project. Here are some frequently asked questions about making unicorn cakes, along with helpful answers to guide you through the process.

1. What is the best cake flavor for a unicorn cake?

Answer: The best cake flavor for a unicorn cake is one that you or the cake recipient loves the most! Vanilla and chocolate are classic and popular choices because they’re widely loved and easy to flavor or color. For a more whimsical touch, consider a rainbow layer cake, where each layer is a different color, or funfetti cake for a sprinkle of color throughout the batter.

2. How can I make the cake layers colorful?

Answer: To make colorful cake layers, divide your batter into separate bowls, one for each color you plan to use. Add gel food coloring to each bowl and mix until you achieve the desired shade. Gel food coloring is preferred over liquid because it’s more concentrated and won’t alter the batter’s consistency. Bake each colored layer separately according to your recipe’s instructions.

3. Can I use store-bought frosting for decorating?

Answer: Yes, you can use store-bought frosting for decorating your unicorn cake. However, for best results, choose a frosting that’s easy to spread or pipe. You might need to slightly adjust its consistency by mixing in a little powdered sugar (to thicken) or milk (to thin). Remember, homemade buttercream tends to hold colors and shapes better if you’re willing to make it from scratch.

4. How do I make a unicorn horn and ears?

Answer: To make a unicorn horn and ears, you can use fondant or modeling chocolate. For the horn, dye a piece of fondant the desired color, roll it into a long, thin rope, fold it in half, and twist the two pieces around each other before shaping it into a horn. Insert a toothpick or skewer into the bottom for easy placement on the cake. For the ears, shape fondant into two ear shapes, using a slightly pinker shade for the inner part of the ears. Let these pieces dry slightly to hold their shape before adding them to the cake.

5. What’s the best way to pipe the mane?

Answer: The best way to pipe the mane is to use a variety of piping tips to create different textures and effects. Star tips can create rosettes and swirls, while round tips are great for making dots and beads. Use multiple colors of frosting to fill piping bags fitted with your chosen tips, and practice your designs on parchment paper before starting on the cake. Pipe the mane along the top and down one side of the cake, layering colors and shapes for a magical effect.

The Beginner’s Guide to Piping by BBC Good Food is a helpful resource for those new to cake decorating.

6. How far in advance can I make my unicorn cake?

Answer: You can bake the cake layers 2-3 days in advance; just wrap them well in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature or in the refrigerator. The assembled and decorated cake is best enjoyed within 24 hours of completion, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that fondant decorations may soften in the fridge, so add those closer to serving time if possible.

7. How do I store leftovers?

Answer: Store leftover unicorn cake in an airtight container or wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices of the cake, but be aware that the appearance and texture of the frosting and decorations may change slightly upon thawing.

Remember, making a unicorn cake is about having fun and letting your creativity shine. Don’t stress over perfection; your unique touches will make the cake special and appreciated.

Conclusion: Bringing Your Unicorn Dream to Life

Creating a unicorn cake is more than just baking—it’s an act of bringing a magical dream to life, one that combines the artistry of decoration with the joy of celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer eager to create something special, the journey of making a unicorn cake is filled with opportunities for creativity, learning, and fun.

Embrace the Process

Remember, the process of making a unicorn cake is as important as the final product. Each step, from choosing your flavors and colors to baking, layering, and decorating, is a chance to put your personal touch on this whimsical creation. Don’t worry about achieving perfection; the charm of a homemade unicorn cake lies in its unique imperfections and the love poured into making it.

Celebrate Creativity

Unicorn cakes are a celebration of creativity. They invite you to play with colors, textures, and designs. Whether you opt for a classic look with pastel swirls and a golden horn or decide to experiment with bold colors and innovative decorations, your unicorn cake is a reflection of your imagination and artistic spirit.

Share the Magic

One of the most rewarding aspects of making a unicorn cake is the joy it brings to others. Whether it’s for a birthday, a special occasion, or simply a treat for a Tuesday afternoon, a unicorn cake has the power to light up faces and make any moment feel magical. Sharing this creation with friends and family not only spreads happiness but also creates lasting memories.

Reflect and Learn

Every baking project is an opportunity to learn and grow. Reflect on what you enjoyed about the process, what challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. Each cake is a stepping stone to becoming a more confident and skilled baker. Embrace the lessons learned, and look forward to your next baking adventure.

Conclusion

Making a unicorn cake at home is an enchanting experience that combines the joys of baking, decorating, and celebrating. It’s a testament to the power of creativity and the magic that happens when we bring our dreams to life. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your imagination, and step into the kitchen to create a unicorn cake that will be remembered long after the last slice has been enjoyed. Here’s to making magic, one cake at a time!