Realistic Tree Cake Recipe

Embark on a culinary journey that harmoniously blends art and baking with this exquisite tree-inspired cake. This creation is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, perfect for special occasions or as a centerpiece for nature-themed events.

The cake boasts a rich, dark chocolate base, elegantly dressed in a verdant buttercream frosting, artistically crafted to mimic the lush foliage of a tree. Adorned with delicate edible flowers and branches, this cake is a testament to the beauty of nature and the magic of baking.

Ingredient List

For the Chocolate Cake

• 1 and 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 and 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 and 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Buttercream Frosting

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp (30-45ml) heavy cream
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• Green food coloring

For Decorations

• Edible sugar flowers (small size)
• Edible twigs and branches (made from dark chocolate or marzipan)

Directions

Preparing the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Combine: Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin but this is expected.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cooling: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Buttercream Frosting

1. Butter Base: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Cream and Flavor: Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Coloring: Tint the frosting with green food coloring to achieve varying shades of green for a more realistic leaf effect.

Decorating the Cake

1. Frosting the Cake: Using an offset spatula, apply a thin layer of green frosting all over the cake. This is your crumb coat. Chill for 15 minutes. Then, add a thicker layer of frosting, using different shades of green to create depth.
2. Adding Texture: Use a small spatula or a fork to create leaf-like textures in the frosting.
3. Edible Decorations: Place the edible twigs and branches strategically on the cake. Scatter the edible sugar flowers over the top and sides of the cake.
4. Final Touch: Lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar to mimic snow.

Serving

Allow the cake to set for about an hour before serving. This masterpiece is not just a dessert, but a celebration of nature’s beauty, ready to dazzle your guests with its charm and flavors.