1. Bake the Cake Layers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Alternatively, add dry ingredients and milk to the batter.
6. Stir in the vanilla.
7. Divide batter if coloring layers; tint with gel food coloring.
8. Pour into pans and bake 35–40 minutes, or until set.
9. Cool completely on racks.

2. Prepare the Surprise Inside

Piñata Cake Method

1. Once cooled, use a round cutter to remove the center from two layers.
2. Set aside the full, uncut layer for the top.
3. Place the first hollowed layer on a cake board and add a thin frosting layer.
4. Position the second hollowed layer on top.
5. Fill the cavity with candies or sprinkles.
6. Place the full top layer over the filling to seal the cake.

Hidden Design Method

1. Bake a second green loaf or sheet cake.
2. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
3. Insert shapes into batter in a loaf or round pan.
4. Bake until set, then cool before slicing.

3. Frost & Crumb Coat

1. Beat butter until creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar gradually.
3. Add cream and vanilla until smooth.
4. Apply a thin crumb coat to seal crumbs.
5. Chill 20 minutes before final frosting.

4. Decorate

• Smooth frosting or pipe festive borders.
• Add sprinkles, candy canes, or holiday toppers.
• Tint frosting red or green for a festive finish.