Jellycat Birthday Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting
Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes
I adore celebrating birthdays with delicious cakes, and this Jellycat Birthday Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is my favorite. The combination of moist cake and fluffy whipped cream creates a wonderful balance that brings back sweet childhood memories. I've put my twist on the traditional birthday cake by incorporating a fun Jellycat theme, which makes it perfect for kids and adults alike. With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning centerpiece that will impress everyone at the party. Let’s bake some joy together!
When I first attempted this Jellycat Birthday Cake, I was slightly intimidated, but the process turned out to be incredibly enjoyable. The key to success lies in the whipped cream frosting, which I whip until it reaches stiff peaks—this creates a luscious and stable layer that beautifully complements the cake. I also experimented with various colors and sprinkles to bring the Jellycat theme to life, making the cake not only delicious but visually delightful.
What I truly cherish about baking this cake is the joy it brings to everyone who sees it. The giggles and smiles from the little ones when they first see the cake are priceless. I usually let the cake cool completely before frosting it, as this prevents the cream from melting and ensures a flawless finish. If you love fun and whimsical desserts, this cake will definitely make your celebration unforgettable!
Why You'll Love This Cake
- Delightfully fluffy whipped cream frosting that enhances the cake's flavor
- Creative design that celebrates the whimsical Jellycat theme
- Perfect for making birthdays extra special with its vibrant colors
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality ingredients is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in your Jellycat Birthday Cake. The butter should be unsalted and at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar, which helps to incorporate air into the batter. This air is vital for a light and fluffy cake. Additionally, using fresh eggs will contribute to a richer taste and improved structure, making the cake tender yet sturdy enough to hold the whipped cream frosting.
Granulated sugar plays a crucial role in the cake, not just for sweetness but also for moisture retention. The sugar granules help to aerate the batter during mixing, resulting in a cake that rises beautifully. If you’re looking to reduce refined sugar, consider using a natural substitute like coconut sugar, but be aware that it may slightly alter the color and depth of flavor in your cake.
Tips for Perfect Whipped Cream
Achieving the perfect whipped cream frosting is all about temperature and technique. Ensure your heavy whipping cream is very cold, ideally chilled for at least 30 minutes before whipping. This will help it to whip up more easily and maintain volume. Use a chilled mixing bowl and whisk if possible; this can make a big difference in achieving those stiff peaks. When adding the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, do so gradually to avoid deflating the whipped cream, ensuring a light and airy texture.
If you find that your whipped cream isn’t holding its shape, you might want to stabilize it using gelatin or instant pudding mix. Simply dissolve 1 teaspoon of gelatin in 2 tablespoons of cold water, let it sit until it blooms, and then gently fold it into your whipped cream for added stability. This is particularly useful if you plan to decorate the cake a few hours ahead of serving.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once your Jellycat Birthday Cake is assembled, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, I recommend covering it with a dome or plastic wrap to protect the whipped cream and prevent it from absorbing other odors. If you have leftovers, slice the cake before refrigerating; this makes it easier to serve later. For a fun twist, try freezing individual slices—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
For serving, consider pairing slices of the cake with fresh fruit, such as berries or slices of kiwi, for a refreshing contrast to the rich whipped cream and cake. You can also drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent touch. And don’t forget to add fun Jellycat-themed plates or napkins to your dessert table to enhance that whimsical birthday atmosphere!
Ingredients
Gather these delightful ingredients to make your Jellycat Birthday Cake:
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Frosting Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Jellycat-themed decorations (optional)
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a smooth baking experience!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Jellycat Birthday Cake:
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream on medium speed until it begins to thicken. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then increase the speed to high and whip until stiff peaks form. If desired, add food coloring to create vibrant colors.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with Jellycat-themed decorations and sprinkles for a festive look!
Enjoy your delightful Jellycat Birthday Cake!
Pro Tips
- For an extra special touch, consider adding fresh fruit or chocolate decorations on top of the frosting. Ensure your whipped cream is well-chilled for best results.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, there are several effective substitutions you can make without compromising flavor. For a gluten-free alternative, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum, which is crucial for structure. For a dairy-free version, replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute, and use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk.
To create a lighter cake, you might opt for egg replacements such as unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture. For each egg in the recipe, substitute with 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. This will keep the cake moist while still allowing it to rise well in the oven.
Scaling the Recipe
If you need to make a larger cake for a bigger celebration, scaling this recipe is easy! Simply double the ingredients to create a larger layered cake, using 9-inch or 11-inch pans as necessary. Adjust baking times accordingly; larger cakes may need more time in the oven—check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center, which should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
When scaling up, also consider how much frosting you’ll need. For double the size, you may need to double the frosting ingredients as well. If you’re decorating with piping, practice on parchment paper first to get a feel for your technique, ensuring a beautiful finish on the cake. Remember, the extra layers provide more surface area for adorning with those delightful Jellycat decorations!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cake vegan?
You can replace the eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives for a vegan version.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months, but it's best to frost it fresh.
→ What if I don't have two cake pans?
You can bake one layer at a time and later slice it in half horizontally to create two layers.
Jellycat Birthday Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting
I adore celebrating birthdays with delicious cakes, and this Jellycat Birthday Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is my favorite. The combination of moist cake and fluffy whipped cream creates a wonderful balance that brings back sweet childhood memories. I've put my twist on the traditional birthday cake by incorporating a fun Jellycat theme, which makes it perfect for kids and adults alike. With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning centerpiece that will impress everyone at the party. Let’s bake some joy together!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Classic Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Frosting Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Jellycat-themed decorations (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients.
Pour the batter evenly into two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream on medium speed until it begins to thicken. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then increase the speed to high and whip until stiff peaks form. If desired, add food coloring to create vibrant colors.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with Jellycat-themed decorations and sprinkles for a festive look!
Extra Tips
- For an extra special touch, consider adding fresh fruit or chocolate decorations on top of the frosting. Ensure your whipped cream is well-chilled for best results.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g