Save A playful, pixel-inspired cake shaped like a video game controller perfect for gaming enthusiasts. Moist layers of vanilla cake are covered with vibrant fondant to capture the nostalgic pixelated look.
This cake was a hit at my gaming party and brought back so many fond memories of classic video games.
Ingredients
- Cake: 2 ½ cups (310 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp salt, 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, 1 ¾ cups (350 g) granulated sugar, 4 large eggs, 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract, 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- Buttercream Frosting: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, 3 ½ cups (420 g) powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, Pinch of salt
- Decoration: 18 oz (500 g) white fondant, Gel food coloring (black, gray, red, blue, yellow, green), Cornstarch (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a rectangular cake pan (9x13 inch / 23x33 cm).
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla:
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Combine mixtures:
- Alternately add flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Bake:
- Pour batter into prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 30 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Let cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes then turn out onto a rack to cool completely.
- Prepare buttercream:
- Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar milk vanilla and salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Shape cake:
- Level the cooled cake. Using a printed template or freehand cut the cake into a classic video game controller shape.
- Crumb coat:
- Cover the cake with a thin layer of buttercream to seal in crumbs (crumb coat). Chill for 30 minutes.
- Decorate:
- Tint portions of fondant using gel food coloring to create black gray and colored buttons. Roll fondant out on a cornstarch-dusted surface. Cover the cake with gray fondant then decorate with colored fondant pieces to mimic buttons and pixel details.
- Serve:
- Arrange the finished cake on a serving platter to resemble a pixelated controller.
Save My family loved cutting into the cake to reveal the moist layers and vibrant decorations that reminded us of our childhood gaming sessions.
Notes
Create pixel effects by cutting fondant into small squares. Pair with a glass of cold milk or your favorite party beverage.
Required Tools
9x13 inch (23x33 cm) cake pan, Electric mixer, Rolling pin, Offset spatula, Sharp knife or cake carving tool, Fondant smoother
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) eggs milk (dairy). May contain traces of nuts if ingredients are processed in facilities that also handle nuts. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save This pixel controller cake is a delightful centerpiece for any game-themed event and a fun baking project to share.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve sharp edges on the cake?
Chill the crumb-coated cake thoroughly before applying fondant to help the edges maintain a crisp, defined shape.
- → Can I substitute vanilla cake with another flavor?
Yes, chocolate cake can be used as an alternative to vanilla for a richer flavor profile.
- → What is the best way to create the pixelated fondant effect?
Cut fondant into small squares and arrange them carefully to mimic the pixelated look of a game controller.
- → How long does the cake take to prepare and bake?
Preparation takes about 45 minutes, with a baking time of 35 minutes, totaling approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- → What tools are essential for shaping and decorating this cake?
Essential tools include a sharp knife or cake carving tool, rolling pin, offset spatula, fondant smoother, and a 9x13 inch rectangular pan.