Save Pin This Rat Cake Birthday Sheet Bake is the perfect centerpiece for any birthday celebration, combining classic vanilla sponge with whimsical buttercream rats and playful decorations for a treat that tickles both taste buds and imagination.
I first baked this cake for my nephew's birthday, and watching everyone laugh and marvel at the adorable rat decorations made it an unforgettable party centerpiece.
Ingredients
- Cake: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour, 2 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter (room temperature), 1 3/4 cups (350 g) granulated sugar, 4 large eggs (room temperature), 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract, 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- Buttercream Frosting: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter (room temperature), 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar (sifted), 2 3 tbsp whole milk, 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, Pinch of salt, Food coloring (gray, pink, black gel or liquid)
- Decorations: Candy eyes or mini chocolate chips, Pink candy melts or fondant (for ears and noses), Licorice laces or black fondant (for tails and whiskers), Edible glitter or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) sheet cake pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 4 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Bake:
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 28 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Cool cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make Frosting:
- Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low. Add milk, vanilla, and salt; beat until fluffy. Divide frosting into portions and tint gray, pink, and black as desired.
- Decorate:
- Spread a smooth layer of gray buttercream over the cooled cake. Use piping bags fitted with round tips to pipe small "rat" shapes on top of the cake using gray frosting. Add pink frosting for ears and noses, and black frosting for eyes or use candy eyes. Add licorice laces for tails and whiskers.
- Finish:
- Decorate with edible glitter or sprinkles if desired. Slice and serve for a memorable birthday treat.
Save Pin When my family gathers for birthday parties, this rat cake always brings smiles and kicks off playful conversations around the table.
Required Tools
9x13-inch (23x33 cm) sheet cake pan, electric mixer, mixing bowls, offset spatula, piping bags and tips, wire rack, parchment paper
Notes
Substitute chocolate cake for a richer flavor. Use fondant for more detailed rat decorations. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Pair with a glass of milk or a light dessert wine.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 465, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 64 g, Protein: 4 g (per serving)
Save Pin Enjoy creating and sharing this whimsical rat-themed cake—it is sure to be the highlight of your next celebration!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the cake a day in advance and store covered at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness.
- → How do I achieve vibrant colors in the frosting?
Use gel food coloring for strong shades; mix gradually until your desired hues for rats, ears, and noses are reached.
- → What can I use for decorating rats if I lack fondant?
Mini chocolate chips, candy melts, licorice laces, and colored buttercream are great alternatives for creative details.
- → Can I substitute the cake flavor?
Chocolate, lemon, or other favorite sponge flavors work well; adjust ingredients and baking time if needed.
- → Is the cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients listed—including cake and frosting—are vegetarian-friendly; check candy for additional additives.
- → What tools are essential for decorating rats?
Piping bags with round tips, offset spatula, and small candies or fondant shapes are key for adding whimsical touches.