There’s something magical about summer in America. The long sunny days, family gatherings, and that sweet smell of freshly baked cake wafting from the kitchen—these are memories that last a lifetime. One of my most cherished traditions comes from my grandmother, who would bake a whimsical Bunny Cake every summer for our big family picnic.
This wasn’t just any cake. It was an adorable bunny-shaped masterpiece, made with love, laughter, and just the right amount of mischief (grandma always let me sneak some extra sprinkles!). Now, I’m excited to share my version of this classic Bunny Cake—a treat that combines American nostalgia, creative flair, and flavors perfect for summer. Whether you’re making it for Easter, a birthday, or just to delight your family, this Bunny Cake is sure to be the centerpiece of your celebration.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Bunny Cake
- It’s a showstopper: The bunny shape and pastel decorations are an instant hit, especially with kids.
- Perfect for summer: Light, moist cake with citrus notes and whipped frosting—refreshing, not heavy.
- American classic: Rooted in tradition, but with fun, modern twists.
- Customizable: You can adapt flavors, colors, and decorations to suit any occasion.
- Beginner-friendly: Clear steps make it doable, even if you’re new to creative baking.
Bunny Cake Ingredients (8 Servings)
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- Zest of 1 lemon (for summer brightness)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
For the Fluffy Whipped Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Decorating:
- 1 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut (for the bunny’s “fur”)
- Pink food coloring (for the ears and nose)
- Jelly beans, candy eyes, or chocolate chips (for facial features)
- Pastel sprinkles
- Fresh edible flowers or mint (optional, for a summer garden vibe)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Two 8-inch round cake pans
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Mixing bowls
- Cooling rack
- Sharp knife (for shaping the bunny)
- Offset spatula or butter knife (for frosting)
- Piping bags and tips (optional, for details)
Step-by-Step Bunny Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- Lightly dust with flour; tap out any excess.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, oil, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with flour.
- Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Fluffy Whipped Frosting
- In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
- Beat until stiff peaks form—do not overmix.
Step 7: Shape the Bunny
- Once cakes are cool, place one whole round cake on your serving platter—this is the bunny’s “face.”
- Cut the second cake into two equal ovals for the “ears” and a bowtie shape with the remaining middle piece.
- Arrange the ears above the head and the bowtie beneath.
Step 8: Frost the Bunny
- Cover the entire bunny (face, ears, and bowtie) with a thick layer of whipped frosting.
- For a fluffy look, gently press shredded coconut all over the frosted cake.
Step 9: Decorate!
- Tint a small amount of coconut with pink food coloring for the bunny’s ears and nose—sprinkle in the right spots.
- Use jelly beans, candy eyes, or chocolate chips for the bunny’s eyes and nose.
- Decorate the bowtie with pastel sprinkles and edible flowers or mint for a summer garden effect.
- Get creative—let the kids help, and have fun with it!
Tips for the Perfect Summer Bunny Cake
- Keep it cool: This cake is best enjoyed chilled, especially during warm summer days.
- Make ahead: You can bake the cakes a day in advance and assemble/decorate the next day.
- Add flavor: For an extra burst, add a layer of lemon curd or raspberry jam between the cakes.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter, milk, and cream substitutes.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
- Serve: Slice with a sharp, clean knife for neat bunny shapes. Enjoy as a dessert centerpiece at family picnics, Easter brunches, or summer birthdays.
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cake will stay moist, and the frosting will remain fluffy.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Bunny Cake: Replace ½ cup flour with cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
- Carrot Bunny Cake: Add 1 cup finely grated carrots for a nod to the bunny’s favorite snack.
- Berry Burst: Fold in 1 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity summer cake.
Why This Bunny Cake is an American Summer Classic
Bunny Cake is more than a dessert—it’s a centerpiece, a conversation starter, and a beloved tradition. Rooted in American celebrations, it brings a sense of nostalgia and joy to the table. The citrusy lemon and whipped cream frosting keep it light and refreshing for hot summer days, while the fun decorating process makes it a family activity. Whether you’re carrying on an old tradition or starting a new one, this Bunny Cake is guaranteed to make memories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use boxed cake mix?
A: Yes! If you’re short on time, a high-quality vanilla or lemon boxed cake mix works perfectly. Just add the lemon zest for that fresh summer taste.
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: You can freeze the un-frosted cakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and decorate on the day of serving.
Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Q: How can I make it extra kid-friendly?
A: Set up a decorating “station” with lots of candy options and let the kids decorate their own bunny faces!
Irresistible Bunny Cake
Equipment
- 8-inch round cake pans
- Electric mixer
- Mixing Bowls
- Cooling rack
- Sharp knife
- Offset spatula
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk room temperature
- 1 lemon, zested
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Whipped Frosting
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream cold
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Decoration
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- Pink food coloring
- Jelly beans, candy eyes, or chocolate chips for face
- Pastel sprinkles
- Edible flowers or mint optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- Cream butter, oil, and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Add flour mix and buttermilk alternately. Mix until just combined.
- Divide batter into pans. Bake 25–30 minutes. Cool completely.
- Whip cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt to stiff peaks for frosting.
- Place one cake round as face. Cut the other round into bunny ears and a bowtie. Arrange on platter.
- Frost all pieces. Cover with coconut for bunny “fur.”
- Decorate with pink coconut, candies, and sprinkles. Garnish as desired. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Conclusion: Celebrate Summer With a Bunny Cake Tradition
Bringing a Bunny Cake to your summer table is more than just baking—it’s about creating memories, sharing joy, and celebrating American traditions with your loved ones. This whimsical cake captures the spirit of summer gatherings: light, colorful, and brimming with happiness.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard picnic, a festive birthday, or just looking for a creative way to delight your family, this Bunny Cake will steal the show. The fresh citrus notes and fluffy whipped frosting make it perfect for hot days, while the decorating process invites everyone—kids and adults alike—to get involved and have fun.
So tie on your apron, gather your favorite helpers, and make this Bunny Cake a new tradition. Don’t forget to snap a picture and share your masterpiece—you never know whose celebration you’ll inspire next!
Happy baking, and may your summer be filled with sweetness, laughter, and a touch of bunny magic.
More Dessert Inspiration
- Craving more cupcakes? You’ll love these Coconut Cream Pie Cupcakes for a creamy, tropical twist!
- Decorating for a special occasion? Check out the Graduation Cupcake Decorating Guide: Tips & Ideas for creative inspiration.
- For a show-stopping centerpiece, try this sweet and romantic Heart Cake: Bake Love Into Every Slice.
- If you love rich, unique cakes, the Chocolate Olive Oil Cake is a must-try!
- Explore the Ultimate Bundt Cake Guide for even more classic cake ideas.
- Want something fudgy? Try a batch of decadent Red Velvet Brownies or layer it up with this Slutty Brownie Recipe: Ultimate Guide to Layered Dessert Bliss.
