Decorated Chocolate Cake
Turn a simple chocolate cake into a true showstopper! With easy tools, simple techniques, and creative decoration ideas, you’ll have a cake that looks bakery-level but tastes homemade and heartfelt.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Offset Spatula
- Stand Mixer
- Piping Bag (or zip bag)
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Chocolate Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2–4 tbsp milk or heavy cream to loosen frosting
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Decorating Add-ons
- chocolate bar for curls or shavings
- berries, cookies, or sprinkles optional toppings
Instructions
- Prepare cake layers and let them cool completely before decorating.
- Whip butter, powdered sugar, cocoa, vanilla, and milk until smooth and fluffy to make frosting.
- Level cake layers by trimming domes for a stable base. Place first layer on stand and spread frosting evenly.
- Stack remaining layers, adding frosting in between. Use spatula to spread frosting around sides and top, smoothing as you go.
- Optional: drizzle chocolate ganache over the cake edges for a droplet effect.
- Decorate with toppings: chocolate curls, sprinkles, berries, or cookies. Get creative!
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving for clean slices and a set finish.
Notes
Keep tools clean and warm your spatula in hot water for professional-level smoothness. Don’t panic over imperfections—cover with toppings and call it rustic chic!