Easter Lamb Cake Recipe

Recipe Information

• Serves: 8-10 people
• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Decorating Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Ingredients You Need

For the most adorable Easter lamb cake, gather these quality ingredients:

For the Vanilla Sponge Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk, room temperature

For the Buttercream and Decoration:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4-5 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 2 mini chocolate chips (for eyes)
• 1 pink jelly bean or small piece of pink fondant (for nose)
• Pink ribbon for decoration (optional)

Understanding the Lamb Mold

The key to a perfect Easter lamb cake is using a proper lamb-shaped cake mold, which typically comes in two pieces that create a three-dimensional lamb when joined together. These molds are available at kitchen supply stores or online and are specifically designed for this traditional Easter cake.

If you don’t have a lamb mold, you can create a similar effect using a large bowl for the body and a smaller bowl for the head, though the result won’t be quite as detailed or traditional.

Make sure your mold is clean and thoroughly greased with butter and lightly floured to ensure easy release. Pay special attention to all the detailed areas like the legs and face.

Creating the Perfect Vanilla Cake

This recipe creates a tender, moist vanilla cake that’s sturdy enough to hold its shape in the three-dimensional mold while being deliciously light and fluffy. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and prevents any lumps in your cake batter.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. This creaming process incorporates air and creates the tender texture that makes this cake so special.

Building Flavor and Structure

Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next one, as this creates the smoothest batter.

Beat in the vanilla extract, which provides the classic flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet coconut decoration. The vanilla should be evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the batter, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined – overmixing can make the cake tough rather than tender.

Baking in the Lamb Mold

Carefully pour the batter into the prepared lamb mold, filling it about two-thirds full. The batter should distribute evenly throughout all the detailed areas of the mold, including the legs and facial features.

If using a two-piece mold, fill the bottom half with batter, then carefully place the top half and secure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some molds have clips or other fastening mechanisms.

Place the filled mold on a sturdy baking sheet to make it easier to handle and to catch any potential drips during baking.

Achieving Perfect Doneness

Bake for 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of your mold, until a toothpick inserted into the thickest part comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cake should spring back lightly when touched.

The baking time may vary significantly based on your mold size and oven, so start checking for doneness at 25 minutes and continue baking as needed.

Let the cake cool in the mold for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a wire cooling rack. If the cake sticks, gently tap the mold or use a thin knife to release any stubborn areas.

Creating Fluffy Buttercream

While the cake cools completely, prepare the buttercream that will serve as the “glue” for the coconut wool. Beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. The mixture will become thick and may seem dry at first, but this is normal.

Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, then beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until the buttercream is smooth, fluffy, and spreadable. The texture should be light and easy to work with.

Applying the Base Coating

Once the cake is completely cool, place it on your serving plate or cake board. Using an offset spatula, apply a thin, even layer of buttercream over the entire surface of the lamb.

This base coat serves two purposes – it helps the coconut adhere evenly and seals in moisture to keep the cake fresh. Don’t worry about making it perfectly smooth, as it will be completely covered with coconut.

Work carefully around the detailed facial features, making sure to get buttercream into all the crevices where coconut will need to stick.

Creating the Coconut Wool

The magic of the Easter lamb cake happens when you apply the shredded coconut to create realistic-looking wool. Working in small sections, gently press handfuls of coconut into the buttercream, starting from the bottom and working your way up.

Create texture by varying the direction you press the coconut – some should lie flat while other pieces can stick out slightly to create a fluffy, wool-like appearance.

Leave the face area clear of coconut so you can add the facial features. The contrast between the smooth face and woolly body creates the most attractive presentation.

Adding Adorable Facial Features

For the eyes, gently press two mini chocolate chips into the buttercream on the face area. Position them where they look most natural and appealing – slightly above the center of the face works well.

Create the nose using a small pink jelly bean cut in half or a small piece of pink fondant shaped into a tiny triangle. The nose should be positioned below and between the eyes.

If desired, you can pipe a small mouth using chocolate buttercream or melted chocolate, though this is optional and depends on your artistic preferences.

Final Decorative Touches

Consider adding a pretty ribbon around the lamb’s neck for extra festive appeal. Choose a pastel color that complements your Easter table setting – pink, blue, or lavender work beautifully.

Some bakers like to add small flowers made from fondant or real edible flowers as additional decoration, though the simple coconut wool is beautiful on its own.

Place the finished cake on your serving table where it can be admired before being enjoyed by family and friends.

Serving and Storage

This cake is best served the day it’s decorated, as the coconut maintains its best appearance and texture when fresh. Cut with a sharp knife, wiping it clean between slices to maintain neat presentation.

Store any leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. The buttercream helps keep the cake moist while the coconut maintains its texture well.

Creating Lasting Memories

The Easter lamb cake is as much about the experience of creating it as it is about eating it. Consider involving children in the decorating process – they love helping press the coconut wool and adding the facial features.

Take photos of your finished creation before serving, as this cake makes a beautiful centerpiece that captures the joy and renewal spirit of Easter celebration.

Traditional Significance

This cake represents the traditional Easter lamb, symbolizing spring, new life, and celebration. The white wool represents purity and innocence, making it a meaningful addition to Easter celebrations.

Many families pass down the lamb mold through generations, making this cake not just a dessert but a cherished family tradition that connects us to celebrations past and future.

This Easter Lamb Cake proves that some of the most special desserts are those that combine baking skills with creativity and tradition, creating not just something delicious to eat but a centerpiece that brings families together and creates lasting holiday memories.