Christmas Tree Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is not just a dessert; it’s a festive centerpiece that brings joy to any holiday gathering. This delightful cake features layers of moist vanilla cake paired with creamy buttercream frosting, all beautifully adorned with charming Christmas tree-shaped cones. Imagine the smiles of your family and friends as they gather around this stunning Yule Tree Dessert, creating unforgettable memories together. Let’s dive into the magic of baking this enchanting cake that truly embodies the spirit of the season!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Tree Cake with
This Christmas Tree Cake with is a showstopper that combines aesthetics with deliciousness. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Visually stunning centerpiece for holiday parties
- Easy Christmas tree cake recipe suitable for all skill levels
- Rich vanilla flavor that everyone loves
- Can be customized with unique decorative Christmas tree cake ideas
- Perfect for kids’ parties and family gatherings
- Creates a festive atmosphere with its charming design
This recipe is classified as a Dessert and is ideal for those who enjoy baking. The use of vanilla and peppermint extracts adds a delightful twist, making it a true holiday treat.
Ingredients for Christmas Tree Cake with
Gather these items:
- 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour (213g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 1/4 tsp baking soda (1g)
- 1 tsp baking powder (3g)
- 1/4 tsp salt (1g, heaping, optional)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (176g, room temperature)
- 3 egg whites
- 1/2 cup sour cream (120g)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract (15mL)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (120mL)
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (optional, 2.5mL)
- 1.5 lb confectioners sugar (680g)
- 1 lb unsalted butter (454g)
- 1-2 tbsp heavy whipping cream (if needed for consistency)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5mL)
- 5 drops green food coloring (for decorating the trees)
- 12 ice cream cones (for Christmas tree shapes)
How to Make Christmas Tree Cake with Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Combine the sour cream, vanilla extract, peppermint extract (if using), and milk; gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, alternating with the dry ingredients until well incorporated.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans. Pour the batter evenly into the pans and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on wire racks.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the confectioners sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat on medium-high speed until fluffy and smooth. If the consistency is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream to reach the desired consistency.
- Step 4: Separate a small portion of the buttercream and mix in the green food coloring thoroughly to create the frosting for the Christmas tree decorations.
- Step 5: Level the cooled cake layers if needed. Spread a layer of vanilla buttercream on the bottom layer, then place the next cake layer on top and repeat until all layers are stacked. Cover the entire cake with a thin crumb coat of frosting and chill for 15-20 minutes. Then apply a smooth layer of vanilla buttercream all over the cake for the final finish.
- Step 6: Frost the 12 ice cream cones with the green-colored buttercream, piping in a zigzag or leaf pattern to mimic the look of pine trees. Arrange the decorated cones around the cake or on top to form a beautiful display resembling a Christmas forest.
- Step 7: Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the buttercream to set. Serve slices and enjoy your festive Christmas Tree Cake!
Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Tree Cake with
Keep these in mind:
- This cake makes a great centerpiece for holiday celebrations.
- You can adjust the peppermint extract to your taste.
- Use your favorite cake pan sizes for different shapes.
- For an extra touch, consider adding edible decorations on top!
Best Ways to Serve Christmas Tree Cake with
Here are a few ideas to enhance your festive dessert:
- Pair with hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Serve at holiday parties as a unique conversation starter.
- Include slices in gift boxes for friends and family.
How to Store and Reheat Christmas Tree Cake with
To store your Christmas Tree Cake with, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you need to reheat it, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a slice of this delightful cake warm!
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Tree Cake with
What is a Christmas tree cake?
A Christmas tree cake is a festive dessert that resembles a Christmas tree, often decorated with frosting and edible ornaments. It’s a popular choice for holiday gatherings and parties.
Why is a Christmas tree cake popular?
This cake is popular due to its fun and festive appearance, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday celebrations. It’s also a delicious treat that appeals to both kids and adults.
How to decorate a Christmas tree cake?
You can decorate a Christmas tree cake by using green frosting to create the tree shape and adding edible decorations like ornaments, stars, and even candy canes to enhance its festive look.
Variations of Christmas Tree Cake with You Can Try
Here are some fun Christmas tree cake variations to consider:
- Chocolate Christmas tree cake: Use chocolate cake layers instead of vanilla for a rich twist.
- Christmas tree cake with edible decorations: Incorporate different candies and sprinkles for a colorful effect.
- Fun Christmas tree cake variations: Try different flavors like red velvet or lemon for a unique take on this classic.
For more festive recipes, check out our Gingerbread Tiramisu or Cranberry Custard Pie. You might also enjoy our Peppermint Christmas Float for a refreshing drink to pair with your cake!
Print
Delightful Christmas Tree Cake with Vanilla Buttercream
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Christmas Tree Cake is a festive and delightful vanilla cake layered with creamy vanilla buttercream, decorated with charming Christmas tree-shaped cones.
Ingredients
- 1 2/3 cups all purpose flour (213g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 1/4 tsp baking soda (1g)
- 1 tsp baking powder (3g)
- 1/4 tsp salt (1g, heaping, optional)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (176g, room temperature)
- 3 egg whites
- 1/2 cup sour cream (120g)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract (15mL)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (120mL)
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (optional, 2.5mL)
- 1.5 lb confectioners sugar (680g)
- 1 lb unsalted butter (454g)
- 1–2 tbsp heavy whipping cream (if needed for consistency)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5mL)
- 5 drops green food coloring (for decorating the trees)
- 12 ice cream cones (for Christmas tree shapes)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Combine the sour cream, vanilla extract, peppermint extract (if using), and milk; gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, alternating with the dry ingredients until well incorporated.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans. Pour the batter evenly into the pans and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on wire racks.
- In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the confectioners sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat on medium-high speed until fluffy and smooth. If the consistency is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream to reach the desired consistency.
- Separate a small portion of the buttercream and mix in the green food coloring thoroughly to create the frosting for the Christmas tree decorations.
- Level the cooled cake layers if needed. Spread a layer of vanilla buttercream on the bottom layer, then place the next cake layer on top and repeat until all layers are stacked. Cover the entire cake with a thin crumb coat of frosting and chill for 15-20 minutes. Then apply a smooth layer of vanilla buttercream all over the cake for the final finish.
- Frost the 12 ice cream cones with the green-colored buttercream, piping in a zigzag or leaf pattern to mimic the look of pine trees. Arrange the decorated cones around the cake or on top to form a beautiful display resembling a Christmas forest.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the buttercream to set. Serve slices and enjoy your festive Christmas Tree Cake!
Notes
- This cake makes a great centerpiece for holiday celebrations.
- You can adjust the peppermint extract to your taste.
- Use your favorite cake pan sizes for different shapes.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg