The Knock Knock Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. This fun and creative cake hides a delightful surprise inside, making it perfect for birthdays, baby showers, kids’ parties, and celebrations of all kinds. With every slice, colorful candies or treats tumble out, leaving guests amazed. If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next event, this cake is it.

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

For the buttercream frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)

For the filling:

• 1 ½ cups assorted candies (M\&Ms, mini chocolates, sprinkles, gummies, etc.)

Instructions : How to Make

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Alternately add the flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with flour, mixing until just combined. Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.

To assemble, take one of the layers and use a round cutter to cut a hole in the center (about 3 inches wide). Do the same with the second layer. Place one solid layer on your cake board and spread a thin layer of frosting. Add the first cake with the hole on top, then spread frosting again and stack the second ring layer. Fill the cavity with your chosen candies. Top with the final uncut layer and press gently to seal.

Frost the entire cake with buttercream. Use a spatula to smooth the frosting evenly. Add designs or decorations as desired using colored buttercream, sprinkles, or edible toppers. Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to set.

Tips for a Perfect Knock Knock Cake

Use sturdy cake layers so they hold their shape when stacked and cut. You can flavor the cake with cocoa powder, lemon zest, or almond extract if desired. Chill your layers before cutting to reduce crumbs. Always level your cakes before stacking to avoid a lopsided result.

Why It’s Called a Knock Knock Cake

The name comes from the surprise hidden inside. When you cut or “knock” into the cake, something unexpected pops out—usually a mix of candies, chocolates, or sprinkles. It’s a cake that delivers joy and wonder with every slice.

Filling Ideas

• Mini marshmallows
• Gummy bears or sour candies
• Chocolate chips
• Sprinkles
• Fresh berries (if serving immediately)
  You can also theme the filling to match holidays like red-and-green for Christmas or pastels for Easter.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Knock Knock Cake is a delightful surprise cake that adds magic to any celebration. With its hidden center of sweet treasures, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Customize it to suit your event theme and make your guests smile with every slice. Try this recipe, and let the surprises begin!