Is there anything more magical than a dessert that doubles as a stunning holiday centerpiece? This Christmas Tree Cake is everything you need to bring the wow factor to your holiday table. With its nine jaw-dropping layers and festive flair, it’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. While it does require some patience, the process is easier than you’d think. Follow these fun and simple steps, and you’ll be the star of your holiday gathering!
Before You Begin: A Few Tips
- Cold Cakes Are Key: Chill those layers! Cold cakes are easier to slice, stack, and frost without crumbling. Trust us, it makes all the difference.
- Box or Homemade?: A boxed mix is quick and easy, but if you have the time, a homemade cake is sturdier and often tastes even better.
- Frosting Hack: A spinning cake stand will make your life so much easier when it’s time to frost and decorate.
Ready to dive in? Let’s build some holiday magic, layer by layer!
Directions
Step 1: Bake the Cakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare five 8” round cake pans by greasing them and lining with parchment paper (pro tip: trace the pans on parchment for a perfect fit). Prepare your cake mix as instructed on the box (or whip up your favorite homemade recipe) and divide the batter evenly among the pans. Bake for 20-23 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 15 minutes, then carefully turn them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Chill Out
Once cooled, wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes. (If you’re ahead of schedule, you can freeze them for up to three days.) This step makes stacking and frosting so much easier—you’ll thank yourself later!
Step 3: Make the Frosting
Time for the magic glue! In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), beat 2 cups of butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add 8 cups of powdered sugar, beating on low until combined. Stir in 6 tablespoons of heavy cream, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy and smooth, adding a little extra cream, one tablespoon at a time, to get the perfect consistency.
Step 4: Level Up
Take your frozen cake layers and, using a serrated knife, carefully level the tops. This will give you a flat surface for stacking (and bonus: you get to snack on the scraps!).
Step 5: Start Stacking
Now it’s time to assemble your tree! Using round cutters, cut progressively smaller circles from your cake layers:
- First layer: 7” circle.
- Second layer: 6” circle.
- Third layer: 5” circle.
- Fourth layer: 4” circle.
For the smallest tiers, cut circles from the fifth layer: 3”, 2 ½”, 2”, 1 ½”, and finally 1”. Place the largest layer on your serving platter or cake stand and spread a thin layer of frosting on top before adding the next layer. Repeat until you’ve stacked all the layers, with frosting between each.
Step 6: Crumb Coat Magic
Spread a thin layer of frosting (a crumb coat) over the entire cake to seal in crumbs and stabilize the stack. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—this is just the base layer. Smooth the frosting into a cone shape with an offset spatula, gently holding the top tier if it feels wobbly. Chill for 30 minutes to let it set.
Step 7: Mix Your Greens
Divide the remaining frosting into three bowls. Tint one bowl light green, another medium green, and the last one dark green. (Gel food coloring works best for vibrant shades!) Transfer all three colors into a piping bag fitted with an open star tip, placing the colors side by side to create a natural, multicolored effect.
Step 8: Frost Like a Pro
Starting at the bottom, pipe the green frosting in short bursts, pulling the bag away slightly as you release to create a textured “branch” effect. Rotate the cake stand as you work your way up, alternating the shades of green to mimic real tree branches. No two trees are the same, so have fun with it!
Step 9: Add the Finishing Touches
Now for the best part—decorating! Sprinkle on edible “ornaments,” like colorful nonpareils or metallic dragees, and finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect. Add a star-shaped topper for the pièce de résistance!
Final Thoughts: A Slice of Holiday Joy
Your Christmas Tree Cake is not just a dessert—it’s a masterpiece that will delight everyone at your gathering. So slice it up, serve it proudly, and soak in the compliments!
Looking to make your holiday season even brighter? Whether you’re thinking about buying or selling a home (or just need some holiday cheer), I’m here to help. Call or text me at (919) 349-0249, and let’s make your next move as magical as this cake. 🎄 Happy Holidays from my kitchen to yours!
Michael Brown
Keller Williams Realty
[email protected]
TheMichaelBrownTeam.com
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