Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I peered into the kitchen, the scent of sugar and spices swirling through the air pulled me into a whirlwind of nostalgia, where Halloween meant laughter, creativity, and most importantly, a ghoulish dessert that would steal the show. This Halloween Slash Cake is not just a treat; it’s a centerpiece that delights both the eyes and the taste buds, featuring moist layers of cake filled with fruity strawberry jam, all veiled in fondant that whimsically resembles blood. Perfect for any Halloween gathering, this vegetarian cake is quick to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a spooky soirée or simply want to indulge in a fun bake, this cake is sure to elevate your festivities. Ready to conjure up something sweetly terrifying? Let’s dive right into the recipe! Why Is This Cake a Halloween Must-Have? Visual Impact: The Halloween Slash Cake isn’t just delicious; it’s an eye-catching centerpiece that sets the mood for any spooky gathering. Unique Flavors: With layers of moist cake paired with fruity strawberry jam, every bite is a delicious surprise. Easy to Make: Fear not, even as a busy home cook, you can whip this up without stress. Crowd-Pleasing: Friends and family will be clamoring to try this fun dessert, reminiscent of childhood Halloween memories. Versatile Options: Want to switch things up? You can easily try different jams or flavors, similar to variations seen in our Strawberry Shortcake Bars or even incorporate lemon curd for a zesty twist. Creative Fun: The decorating process brings out your inner artist, making baking a delightful experience for all ages. Get ready, because this ghoulish treat is about to become your Halloween tradition! Halloween Slash Cake Ingredients • Get ready to bake up some spooky fun with these essential components for a Halloween Slash Cake! For the Cake Unsalted Butter (140g) – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option. Grapeseed Oil (100ml) – Provides moisture and a light texture; can use any neutral oil like vegetable or canola. Milk (200ml) – Helps emulsify the batter and adds moisture; try almond or soy milk for a dairy-free alternative. Yogurt (3 tbsp) – Enhances moisture with a slight tang; buttermilk or dairy-free yogurt works too. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth of flavor; almond extract is a great substitute. Large Eggs (2) – Contributes structure and leavening; swap for a flax or chia egg for a vegan option. Light Muscovado Sugar (250g) – Offers sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor; brown sugar can be used instead. Plain Flour (250g) – Forms the cake’s base structure; gluten-free flour blend is a viable alternative. Baking Powder (3 tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best results. Cocoa Powder (50g) – Enhances flavor and provides a darker crumb; Dutch-process cocoa can be substituted. For the Filling Strawberry Jam (¾ jar, 340g) – Adds fruity flavor and moisture between layers; can use raspberry or any fruit jam in its place. For the Decoration Ready-to-Roll White Fondant Icing (1¼ kg) – Used for coating and decorating the cake; homemade marshmallow fondant is a tasty alternative. Icing Sugar (600g) – Sweetens the buttercream; use powdered sugar as a substitute. Softened Butter (300g) – The base for a smooth buttercream; opt for dairy-free margarine for a vegan version. Red Food Colouring – Creates the ‘blood’ effect for decoration; gel food coloring offers better vibrancy. With these ingredients ready to go, you’re just steps away from creating a Halloween masterpiece that’ll leave everyone spellbound! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Halloween Slash Cake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. While the oven is heating, prepare two 20cm sandwich tins by greasing them with unsalted butter and lining the base with parchment paper. This step ensures your Halloween Slash Cake will release easily after baking, leaving you with perfectly shaped layers. Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter until just warm, then add the grapeseed oil, milk, yogurt, vanilla extract, and large eggs. Whisk these ingredients together off the heat until they become a smooth, well-combined mixture. You should see a creamy mixture that has a lovely aroma, setting the perfect base for your Halloween Slash Cake. Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, light muscovado sugar, baking powder, and cocoa powder ensuring there are no lumps. This dry mixture is essential for creating a light and airy texture in your cake layers. Once combined, make a well in the center and pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until it becomes a smooth batter. Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers Carefully divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they are risen and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Step 5: Prepare the Buttercream While the cakes are cooling, prepare your buttercream. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy. Add red food coloring to create a vibrant shade of ‘blood’ for decorating. If the mixture is too thick, mix in a tablespoon of boiling water at a time until you achieve your desired consistency for a smooth finish. Step 6: Assemble the Cake Once the cakes are fully cooled, use a serrated knife to trim the tops of each layer for a flat surface, then carefully slice each layer in half horizontally. Place the first layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of strawberry jam followed by a generous layer of buttercream. Stack the next layer on top and repeat until all layers are assembled, finishing with the plain cake layer on top. Step 7: Coat the Cake Using the remaining buttercream, thoroughly coat the entire exterior of the assembled Halloween Slash Cake. Make sure to create a smooth surface for the fondant to adhere to. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to set the buttercream before moving on to the fondant covering. Step 8: Decorate with Fondant Once chilled, roll out the ready-to-roll white fondant icing on a surface dusted with icing sugar until it’s about 5mm thick. Carefully drape the rolled fondant over the cake and smooth it down with your hands to eliminate any air bubbles and creases. With a sharp knife, trim any excess fondant at the base to create a clean finish. Step 9: Add the Finishing Touches To achieve the desired ‘blood’ effect, cut slashes into the fondant with a knife. Drizzle some of the reserved buttercream, mixed with a tiny splash of water, into the slashes to resemble dripping blood. Your Halloween Slash Cake is now complete, ready to be the star of your spooky celebration! What to Serve with Halloween Slash Cake Indulge in the spirit of Halloween with a feast that pairs perfectly with this delightfully spooky cake! Whipped Cream: Light and airy, creamy whipped cream adds a fluffy contrast to the moist cake, enhancing every delicious bite. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream next to your Halloween Slash Cake adds a refreshing and cool element to the rich flavors. Pumpkin Spice Cookies: These spiced treats provide a warm, comforting crunch, rounding out your Halloween dessert table perfectly. Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy hot chocolate elevates the festive mood and complements the sweet, fruity flavors of the cake. Candied Apples: Dip apples in caramel and coat with festive sprinkles for a crunchy, tart contrast that isn’t just fun but festive. Fruit Salad: A simple, refreshing fruit salad brings vibrancy and fresh notes, balancing out the richness of the cake for a well-rounded dessert experience. Spooky Cocktails: Ghostly cocktails like a blackcurrant spritzer will add a fun, adult twist to your gathering, ensuring everyone gets into the Halloween spirit. Pumpkin Pie: The classic flavors of pumpkin pie celebrate the season while providing a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the cake. Halloween Slash Cake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this recipe and adjust it to match your taste or dietary preferences! Dairy-Free: Use almond or soy milk in place of regular milk and substitute softened butter with dairy-free margarine for the buttercream. For a completely dairy-free experience, explore the rich, nutty flavors of almond milk, which would beautifully complement the cake’s sweetness. Gluten-Free: Swap plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a cakelike texture. This allows everyone to indulge in the festive spirit, ensuring your Halloween treat is suitable for gluten-sensitive guests too! Fruit Variations: Try raspberry jam or lemon curd instead of strawberry for a unique twist. Each different jam brings its own delightful flavor, adding an extra layer of fruity surprises to your moist cake! Cocoa Swap: Opt for Dutch-process cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor, or consider adding black cocoa for a more intense, gothic look. Imagine serving a cake that’s not just delicious but visually striking, echoing the spooky atmosphere of Halloween. Flavored Extracts: Substitute vanilla extract with almond or orange extract for a different fragrance and flavor profile. The zest of orange extract can bright up the cake while still blending seamlessly with the rich buttercream. Add Some Heat: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper into the batter for a warm kick. Spice it up a little! The warmth will complement the sweetness, making every bite an adventure. Decorative Touches: Use themed edible decorations or spooky sprinkles for an extra festive flair on top. Let your imagination run wild, just as you might with the creative decoration of your Strawberry Shortcake Bars. With all these options, there’s no limit to how you can personalize your Halloween Slash Cake this spooky season! Expert Tips for Halloween Slash Cake Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and a smooth buttercream, crucial for your Halloween slash cake finish. Chill Before Frosting: Chill your cake layers before frosting to make handling easier and achieve neater edges when applying the fondant. Prevent Fondant Sticking: Dust your work surface with icing sugar when rolling out fondant to prevent it from sticking and make it easier to handle. Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients accurately; this is key for baked goods like the Halloween slash cake to achieve the right texture. Baking Powder Freshness: Check the freshness of your baking powder to ensure the best rise in your cake; stale baking powder could lead to a dense texture. Make Ahead Options Get a head start on the spookiness with the Halloween Slash Cake, making it a fantastic option for meal prep! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Simply allow the layers to cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The filling of strawberry jam can also be prepared up to 24 hours before serving. When you’re ready to assemble, make the buttercream fresh, as it maintains the best texture. Just layer your jam and buttercream, cover with fondant, and finish off with ghoulish decorations. This way, you can focus on the fun parts of the celebration, leaving you time to enjoy the festivities! How to Store and Freeze Halloween Slash Cake Airtight Container: Store your Halloween Slash Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor. Refrigeration: If you want to extend its freshness, refrigerate the cake, where it will last for up to a week. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. Freezer Storage: For longer storage, wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating Tips: To enjoy leftover slices, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bring them to room temperature before serving. A quick warm-up in the microwave for 10-15 seconds can also enhance the flavors of your Halloween slash cake. Halloween Slash Cake Recipe FAQs What type of butter is best to use for this cake? Using unsalted butter is recommended to control the salt levels in your Halloween Slash Cake. This adds rich flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, margarine works just as well! How long can I store the Halloween Slash Cake? Store your Halloween Slash Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, it can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just make sure it is well covered to prevent it from drying out—a good quality wrap helps! Can I freeze parts of the Halloween Slash Cake? Absolutely! For freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months. Thaw slices in the fridge overnight, and if you’d like to warm them slightly, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds! What should I do if my cake layers are uneven? If you find your cake layers are uneven after baking, use a serrated knife to carefully trim the tops of each layer for a flat surface. This ensures your Halloween Slash Cake stacks beautifully, making it easier to frost and decorate. Are there any allergies I should consider when serving this cake? Yes, while the Halloween Slash Cake is vegetarian, keep in mind that it includes eggs and dairy. For a vegan version, try substituting eggs with a flax or chia egg, and use dairy-free margarine along with non-dairy milk and yogurt. Always double-check for any additional allergies, especially with guests. What is the best way to decorate this cake? For the best results with fondant, make sure your buttercream is smooth and chilled before applying. Dust your work surface with icing sugar when rolling out fondant to prevent sticking. Cut slashes into the fondant for that spooky effect and drizzle mixed buttercream to create the ‘blood’ look—this is what truly brings your Halloween Slash Cake to life! Spooktacular Halloween Slash Cake That Will Wow Your Guests This Halloween slash cake combines moist layers of cake with fruity strawberry jam, all covered in whimsical fondant, making it a stunning centerpiece for any Halloween gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake140 g Unsalted Butter Adds richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.100 ml Grapeseed Oil Provides moisture and a light texture.200 ml Milk Try almond or soy milk for a dairy-free alternative.3 tbsp Yogurt Enhances moisture; buttermilk or dairy-free yogurt works too.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Adds warmth and depth of flavor.2 large Eggs Contributes structure and leavening; swap for a flax or chia egg for a vegan option.250 g Light Muscovado Sugar Offers sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.250 g Plain Flour Forms the cake's base structure; gluten-free flour blend is a viable alternative.3 tsp Baking Powder Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it's fresh for best results.50 g Cocoa Powder Enhances flavor and provides a darker crumb.For the Filling340 g Strawberry Jam Adds fruity flavor and moisture between layers.For the Decoration1250 g Ready-to-Roll White Fondant Icing Used for coating and decorating the cake.600 g Icing Sugar Sweetens the buttercream.300 g Softened Butter Base for a smooth buttercream; opt for dairy-free margarine for a vegan version.Red Food Colouring Creates the 'blood' effect for decoration. Equipment Mixing bowlsWhiskSpatulaserrated knifeCake tinsMeasuring cupsKitchen scaleParchment PaperWire rack Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. Prepare two 20cm sandwich tins by greasing with unsalted butter and lining with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter until just warm, then add the grapeseed oil, milk, yogurt, vanilla extract, and large eggs. Whisk until smooth.In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, light muscovado sugar, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Make a well in the center and pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently.Divide the batter evenly between the prepared tins and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Cool in the tins for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.Prepare the buttercream by beating together the softened butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy. Add red food coloring and mix until desired color is achieved.Trim the tops of each layer flat, slice each layer in half horizontally. Place the first layer on a serving plate and spread with strawberry jam followed by buttercream. Repeat with remaining layers.Coat the entire outside of the cake with remaining buttercream and chill for 20 minutes.Roll out fondant icing on a dusted surface until about 5mm thick. Drape over the cake, smoothing out any air bubbles.Cut slashes into the fondant and drizzle reserved buttercream to resemble blood. Your Halloween Slash Cake is now complete. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming. Dust your work surface with icing sugar when rolling out fondant to prevent sticking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
