Classic Princess Cake

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Princess Cake.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   Prepare four 8-inch springform pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.

3. Step 3

   In a spacious mixing bowl, blend together 1 cup plus 6 tablespoons of softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture transforms into a smooth, creamy delight.

4. Step 4

   Introduce the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.

5. Step 5

   Gradually sift in the flour and pour in the vanilla extract, mixing until your batter is luxuriously smooth.

6. Step 6

   Evenly distribute this delightful batter among the four prepared pans.

7. Step 7

   Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center emerges clean.

8. Step 8

   Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before gently removing the rings and transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, which should take around an hour.

9. Step 9

   After cooling, use a round cutter or glass to carve a 2-inch hole in the center of each cake, ensuring it’s large enough for the doll to fit through comfortably.

10. Step 10

    For assembly, secure a cake board onto a revolving cake stand with a dab of frosting.

11. Step 11

    Spread 2 tablespoons of frosting on the board and place the first cake layer on top.

12. Step 12

    Continue layering with the remaining cakes, aligning the holes so the cake reaches the doll's hips.

13. Step 13

    For added stability, insert four straws into the cake, about 1/2 inch from the hole, piercing through all layers, and trim any excess straw sticking out.

14. Step 14

    Measure 1/2 inch from the top edge of the cake and mark with a skewer, then trim at an angle to create a lovely dome-shaped skirt.

15. Step 15

    Color two-thirds of your vanilla frosting with a few drops of pink food coloring, then frost the entire cake with a thin layer, including the center hole.

16. Step 16

    Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour to set this first coat.

17. Step 17

    Fill a piping bag fitted with a large flat tip with frosting and pipe around the cake, working from the bottom up until fully covered.

18. Step 18

    For a polished finish, dip a long icing spatula in hot water, dry it, and smooth the frosting.

19. Step 19

    Repeat this process until the frosting is beautifully smooth, then chill the cake in the fridge for at least an hour or overnight for best results.

20. Step 20

    Wrap the doll's legs in plastic wrap and gently insert her into the hole, adding frosting as needed to secure her in place.

21. Step 21

    Divide the remaining frosting into bowls, coloring some pink, green, or leaving some white.

22. Step 22

    Use a skewer to outline any patterns or designs you wish to pipe over the frosting.

23. Step 23

    Fit a small star tip onto a piping bag filled with white or light pink frosting.

24. Step 24

    Hold the bag almost perpendicular to the cake and pipe rows of small stars for the front of the dress, working your way up.

25. Step 25

    Pipe additional stars directly onto the doll from the waist up to form the top of the dress.

26. Step 26

    Use a ruffle tip to create charming ruffles, ribbons, and bows, and a small star tip to pipe delightful rosettes all over the skirt.

27. Step 27

    Add a touch of nature with a leaf tip and green icing for leaves.

28. Step 28

    Keep your masterpiece in the refrigerator until it’s time to serve, and watch as it becomes the centerpiece of joy and celebration.