Frankenstein Cake
This Frankenstein cake is the perfect Halloween dessert! With its vibrant green velvet layers and rich cream cheese buttercream, it’s sure to be a hit at any spooky gathering. This cake not only looks fantastic but also boasts a delightful flavor that will please kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or celebrating a birthday, this cake brings fun and festivity to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Eye-Catching Design: The bright green color and unique decorations make this cake a showstopper.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of moist cake and creamy buttercream offers a tasty treat everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Occasions: Perfect for Halloween parties, birthdays, or any festive celebration.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert.
- Family-Friendly: Kids will love both the look and taste, making it a great choice for family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Frankenstein cake, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready makes preparation easy and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 10-inch greaseproof cake board
- Spinning cake stand
- Small offset spatula
- 1 large piping bag
- 3 small piping bags
- 2 large round piping tips (like a Wilton 2A)
- 1 small round piping tip (like a Wilton 12)
- 1 tiny piping tip (like a Wilton 3)
Importance of Each Tool
- Spinning Cake Stand: This tool allows for easy decoration by rotating the cake without moving it from its spot.
- Small Offset Spatula: Ideal for spreading frosting smoothly over the surface of your cake, ensuring an even layer every time.

Ingredients
This Frankenstein cake is the perfect Halloween dessert! It’s made with moist green velvet cake layers and cream cheese buttercream!!
For the Cake Layers
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour (300g)
- 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted (10g)
- 1 tsp baking soda (6g)
- 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar (350g)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g)
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk, room temperature (300g)
- 2/3 cup vegetable or canola oil (145g)
- 2 squirts of green gel food coloring (or 1 Tbsp liquid food coloring)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (8g)
- 1 tsp white vinegar (4g)
For the Buttercream Frosting
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature (339g – 3 sticks)
- 1/2 cup full-fat cream cheese, room temperature (113g or 4 oz.)
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (12g)
- 1 tsp fine salt (6g)
- 8 cups powdered sugar (1000g)
- 2 Tbsp heavy whipping cream, room temperature (30g)
For Decoration
- Electric green gel food coloring
- Black gel food coloring
How to Make Frankenstein Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together:
1. Cake flour
2. Cocoa powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
Set aside when well combined.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl:
1. Beat unsalted butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add granulated sugar while mixing until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients
To the butter mixture:
1. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Blend in buttermilk, oil, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 6: Bake Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Cakes
Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare Buttercream Frosting
In a large bowl:
1. Beat unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Mix in vanilla extract and salt.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar while beating on low speed until fully incorporated.
4. Add heavy cream if needed for desired consistency.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once cooled:
1. Place one layer on your greaseproof cake board.
2. Spread an even layer of frosting on top before adding the second layer.
3. Crumb coat the entire cake with buttercream before chilling it for about 30 minutes.
Step 10: Decorate
Using different piping tips:
– Decorate with colored frosting to create Frankenstein’s face.
– Use black gel food coloring for details like eyes and mouth.
Enjoy creating this delightful Frankenstein cake that’s perfect for all your Halloween festivities!
How to Serve Frankenstein Cake
Frankenstein Cake is a fun and festive dessert perfect for Halloween celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a spooky movie night, here are some creative serving suggestions that will make your cake stand out.
Individual Portions
- Cupcake Style: Slice the cake into squares and serve them in cupcake liners for a portable treat.
- Layered Dessert Cups: Crumble pieces of the cake and layer them with whipped cream in clear cups for an eye-catching presentation.
Themed Platter
- Spooky Decor: Arrange slices of the cake on a platter with Halloween-themed decorations like plastic spiders or edible eyes.
- Mix and Match: Pair slices of Frankenstein Cake with other Halloween treats like ghost-shaped cookies or chocolate-covered pretzels.
With Ice Cream
- A La Mode: Serve warm slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream for a delicious contrast.
- Sundae Bar: Create a sundae bar where guests can top their cake pieces with various toppings like sprinkles, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream.
How to Perfect Frankenstein Cake
Making the perfect Frankenstein Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps achieve a smooth batter and even baking.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently mix your batter to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can make it dense.
- Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.
- Cool Completely: Let the cake cool fully before frosting it; this prevents melting your buttercream.
- Experiment with Colors: Feel free to adjust the shades of green using gel food coloring for unique designs.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for maximum freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Frankenstein Cake
Complementing your Frankenstein Cake with side dishes can enhance your Halloween spread. Here are some tasty options that pair well.
- Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup adds warmth and seasonal flavor to your dessert table.
- Mummy Dogs: These fun hot dogs wrapped in crescent dough resemble mummies and are sure to delight guests.
- Witch’s Brew Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds offers a refreshing contrast.
- Ghostly Cheese Platter: Include ghost-shaped cheeses along with crackers for an easy-to-prepare snack.
- Monster Fruit Skewers: Assemble fruit skewers using grapes, melon, and strawberries to create colorful monster faces.
- Cauldron Chili: A hearty vegetarian chili served in mini cauldrons makes for a satisfying savory option alongside sweet treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Frankenstein Cake can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Incorrect ingredient measurements: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy. This ensures the best texture and flavor in your cake.
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can create a dense cake. Let your ingredients sit out for 30 minutes before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough cake layers. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the rise and texture of your cake.
- Skipping cooling time: Allowing the cake to cool completely prevents melting the frosting. Give it at least 1 hour before decorating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the Frankenstein Cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Frankenstein Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Frankenstein Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm wrapped slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Frankenstein Cake that can help guide you.
What is a Frankenstein Cake?
A Frankenstein Cake is a festive Halloween dessert featuring green velvet layers and cream cheese frosting, perfect for celebrations.
How do I achieve the best green color for my Frankenstein Cake?
Using gel food coloring provides vibrant results. Start with a small amount and adjust until you reach your desired shade.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute buttermilk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk mixed with vinegar, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter.
What other decorations can I add to my Frankenstein Cake?
You can customize your cake with edible eyes, fondant decorations, or sprinkles for added flair that matches the Halloween theme.
How many servings does this Frankenstein Cake yield?
This recipe serves approximately 20 people, making it ideal for parties or gatherings.
Final Thoughts
The Frankenstein Cake is not only spooky but also deliciously moist and rich in flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize decorations according to your style. Try this fun recipe at your next Halloween gathering, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors or colors!
Frankenstein Cake
Get ready to impress your guests at your next Halloween gathering with this delightful Frankenstein Cake! This vibrant green velvet dessert features moist layers of cake paired with rich cream cheese buttercream, creating a perfect treat for kids and adults alike. The eye-catching design and delicious flavor make it a standout centerpiece for any festive occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween or throwing a monster-themed birthday party, this cake is sure to bring joy and excitement to the table.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 58 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 20 people 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour (300g)
- 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted (10g)
- 1 tsp baking soda (6g)
- 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar (350g)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g)
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk, room temperature (300g)
- 2/3 cup vegetable or canola oil (145g)
- 2 squirts of green gel food coloring (or 1 Tbsp liquid food coloring)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (8g)
- 1 tsp white vinegar (4g)
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature (339g – 3 sticks)
- 1/2 cup full-fat cream cheese, room temperature (113g or 4 oz.)
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (12g)
- 1 tsp fine salt (6g)
- 8 cups powdered sugar (1000g)
- 2 Tbsp heavy whipping cream, room temperature (30g)
- Electric green gel food coloring
- Black gel food coloring
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy; gradually add sugar and mix until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in buttermilk, oil, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just blended.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the buttercream by beating together butter and cream cheese; gradually add powdered sugar until smooth.
- Assemble the cake by layering frosting between layers and covering the entire cake with frosting.
- Decorate using piping tips to create Frankenstein’s face.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg