Yellow Duck Cake with Mini Eggs and Flowers

A Yellow Duck Cake with Mini Eggs and Flowers is a charming, festive dessert that brings both joy and flavor to the table. With its whimsical duck shape, pastel decorations, and spring-inspired theme, it’s perfect for Easter, birthdays, baby showers, or any cheerful celebration. Combining a soft vanilla sponge with rich buttercream, this cake is as delightful to eat as it is to look at.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creativity and taste. The tender, moist sponge is a classic crowd-pleaser, while the decorative duck design adds a unique and playful twist. Topped with colorful mini chocolate eggs and delicate edible flowers, this cake is a beautiful centerpiece that’s bound to impress guests of all ages. It’s also a fun baking project, ideal for family time or themed parties.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Caster sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Eggs
• Milk
• Vegetable oil
• Greek yogurt
• Vanilla extract

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• Unsalted butter
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Milk or cream
• Yellow food coloring

For Decoration:

• Mini chocolate eggs
• Edible flowers
• Licorice strips (for eyes or detailing)
• Potato crisps (for the duck’s beak)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add butter and mix until crumbly. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, oil, yogurt, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
2. Bake the Cake:
   Preheat the oven. Grease and line one square cake tin and one loaf tin. Divide the batter between the tins. Bake until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
3. Shape the Duck:
   Use a serrated knife to carve the cooled cakes into the shape of a duck (body and head). Use skewers to attach the head to the body securely.
4. Make the Frosting:
   Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar. Add vanilla and milk or cream until the consistency is smooth. Tint with yellow food coloring.
5. Frost the Cake:
   Apply a crumb coat and chill. Then apply a final coat of frosting, adding texture to mimic feathers if desired.
6. Decorate:
   Use potato crisps for the beak, licorice for eye outlines, and small candies for pupils. Scatter mini eggs at the base and place edible flowers for a springtime finish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 to 15
• Preparation Time: 1 hour
• Baking Time: 30 to 40 minutes
• Decoration Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Flavor Twist: Add lemon or orange zest for a citrus-infused sponge.
• Frosting Alternatives: Swap vanilla buttercream for lemon or strawberry flavored.
• Diet-Friendly: Use plant-based milk, butter, and yogurt for a dairy-free version.
• Shape Ideas: Turn the cake into a bunny or chick for a different themed look.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

How do I keep the cake from drying out?

Avoid overbaking and make sure to wrap the cooled cake tightly in cling film if storing before decorating.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, the unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped and frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw before decorating.

Can I make this without a shaped cake pan?

Absolutely. Use standard tins and carve the duck shape with a knife.

How far in advance can I make this cake?

Bake the cake up to two days in advance and store it tightly wrapped. Decorate the day of serving for freshness.

What kind of edible flowers can I use?

Use edible varieties like pansies, violets, or marigolds. Make sure they are pesticide-free.

Can I color the frosting without food coloring?

Yes, natural options like turmeric or pureed mango can be used for yellow tinting, though they may affect flavor.

Is this cake suitable for children’s parties?

Definitely. The playful design and sweet, simple flavors make it ideal for kids.

How can I make the duck’s beak more stable?

Chill the cake after applying the beak to help it adhere better and hold its shape.

What can I use for the eyes if I don’t have licorice?

Use chocolate chips, black fondant, or small candy pieces as eye alternatives.

Can I use box cake mix instead?

Yes, a good-quality vanilla box mix can be used as a shortcut, though the flavor may differ slightly.

Conclusion

The Yellow Duck Cake with Mini Eggs and Flowers is a delightful creation that combines charm, creativity, and classic flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a baby shower, or simply looking for a cheerful baking project, this cake delivers visual appeal and satisfying taste. With options for customization and simple storage tips, it’s a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.

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