Decorated Fondant Cake Recipe

Prepare Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, sugar, cocoa powder (if making a chocolate cake), baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, careful not to overmix.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare Fondant and Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, prepare your fondant icing. If using, make your choice of cream cheese or buttercream frosting as well. Color the fondant with food coloring as desired. Roll out the fondant to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.

Assemble and Decorate the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled, spread a layer of frosting (if using) on the top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top. Roll the fondant over the cake, smoothing out any air bubbles or wrinkles. Trim any excess fondant. Use additional colored fondant, edible metallic color, and other decorations to bring your cake design to life.