Two Tier Birthday Cake with Bows

Name: Two Tier Birthday Cake with Bows
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 4 tbsp heavy cream; 2 tsp vanilla extract; Food coloring (optional); Fondant (white and colored for bows); Edible glitter (optional)

Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple

When I set out to create this Two Tier Birthday Cake with Bows, I envisioned a masterpiece that would dazzle at any celebration. I’ve always loved the way a beautifully decorated cake can transform an event, and this one certainly did the trick! The layers are moist and decadent, and the charming bows add a playful touch that delights both kids and adults. Honestly, investing a little extra time in decoration makes such a difference, and seeing the joy on everyone's faces is truly rewarding.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-16T13:46:18.296Z

Creating this cake was both a challenge and a joy! I experimented with flavor balance, using vanilla and chocolate layers, which really complement each other beautifully. I discovered that alternating the layers not only adds visual appeal but also captures different flavor notes in each slice, making it a delightful surprise for anyone who digs in.

Also, I found that the key to achieving those stunning bows is in the fondant preparation. Allowing the fondant to rest ensures it's easier to manipulate, giving you that sleek, professional finish. It’s these little details that elevate the cake from ordinary to extraordinary!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Stunning visual appeal with elegant bows
Moist and flavorful cake layers
Great for any celebration or gathering

The Art of Layering

Layering the cake is crucial for achieving a balanced height and stability. When stacking, it’s important to ensure that each layer is evenly trimmed for a level surface. Use a serrated knife to slice off any domed tops of the cakes before stacking. This extra step not only creates a neat appearance but also helps the frosting adhere better, ensuring the whole cake maintains its structure once decorated.

To enhance the flavor, consider soaking each cake layer with simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water. This adds moisture, especially if your cakes are stored for a day before assembly. Allow the syrup to cool before brushing it generously over each layered cake; it helps maintain the desired texture while providing an additional layer of sweetness.

Working with Fondant

Using fondant for decoration can seem intimidating, but it's truly manageable with practice. The key is to roll fondant to an even thickness—about 1/8 inch is ideal. This thickness provides a smooth finish without overpowering the cake’s flavor. Additionally, if the fondant cracks or tears while rolling out, kneading in a bit of shortening can help restore its pliability.

When applying fondant, make sure your frosting layer is slightly tacky; this helps the fondant adhere well. If you find that your fondant isn’t sticking properly, a light brushing of water or a thin layer of corn syrup on the frosting can act as glue, ensuring that your decorative elements stay secure. Pay special attention to smoothing out any air bubbles to maintain a flawless appearance.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let's gather our ingredients!

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp salt

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
4 tbsp heavy cream
2 tsp vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)

For Decoration

Fondant (white and colored for bows)
Edible glitter (optional)

Now that we have everything we need, let's start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Two Tier Birthday Cake with Bows!

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake Layers

Pour the batter into two greased round cake pans (one larger and one smaller). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once done, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix well. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, adjusting the consistency until it’s smooth and spreadable.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place the larger layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top, followed by the smaller layer. Frost the entire cake generously, ensuring it's covered smoothly.

Decorate with Fondant

Roll out the fondant and cover the cake, smoothing it down for a clean finish. Use colored fondant to create decorative bows and securely attach them to the cake.

Final Touches

Finish with any desired accents, such as edible glitter. Let the cake set before serving.

Your beautiful Two Tier Birthday Cake with Bows is ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For best results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps the batter mix more uniformly. Also, don’t rush the cooling process
this prevents the cake from crumbling during assembly.

Storage Tips

This Two Tier Birthday Cake can be stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to three days at room temperature. It’s best to avoid refrigeration, as chilling can harden the frosting and fondant, compromising the cake’s texture. If you need to store it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer for up to a month. Just remember to let it thaw fully before serving to enjoy the best flavor and moistness.

If you have leftover slices, they can be enjoyed as a delightful dessert or breakfast treat, making this cake not only a show-stopper but also a multi-day delight. For optimal freshness, place slices in a resealable bag or container before freezing them, ensuring there's minimal air exposure.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the presentation of your Two Tier Birthday Cake, consider serving it alongside fresh berries or whipped cream. The tartness of berries balances the rich chocolate layers beautifully, creating a more rounded flavor profile. For gatherings, slice the cake into smaller portions, allowing guests to savor multiple flavors, especially if paired with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Another delightful option is to create a themed dessert table by incorporating smaller treats, such as cupcakes or cake pops, that match the cake's color scheme or flavor profile. This not only complements the cake but also provides guests with a variety of desserts to enjoy, making your celebration even more memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day earlier. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge.

→ Can I use a different flavor of frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to use cream cheese, buttercream, or any flavor that you enjoy.

→ Is fondant necessary for decoration?

While fondant adds a polished look, you can also use frosting or whipped cream for decoration if you prefer a simpler approach.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it.