HOW TO MAKE A HAMBURGER CAKE
Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both fun and delicious? Say bonjour to the hamburger cake– a whimsical treat that looks just like a classic burger but tastes like your favorite layered cake. Whether you’re throwing a summer BBQ, a 4th of July party, or a foodie’s birthday bash, this quirky cake is a guaranteed crowd pleaser!
Although this novelty cake looks like a giant hamburger complete with all the fixings, there’s no meat involved. Instead, layers of moist cake, fluffy frosting, and clever food coloring bring the illusion to life. It’s fun to make, easier than it looks, and perfect for turning heads at any celebration. So, without further ado, here’s how to make the perfect DIY hamburger cake.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (for the "buns")
- 1 box of chocolate cake mix (for the "burger patty")
- Buttercream or vanilla frosting
- Chocolate frosting
- Red, yellow, and green food coloring
Instructions:
1. Bake the Buns and Patty: Use round cake pans to bake two small yellow cakes– these will be the top and bottom “buns.” Then, bake two chocolate cakes in the same-sized pan for the “patties.” Let all layers cool completely before assembling.
2. Frost and Assemble: Gently carve the top portion off of each cake so both sides have a flat surface. Start by spreading a thin layer of frosting on the carved part of your first yellow cake, and carefully place your first chocolate cake on top. Next, spread a layer of “ketchup” with red frosting and secure the second chocolate cake to the first. Finally, put your second yellow cake on top with another thin layer of frosting.
3. Top it Off: Pipe ruffles of green frosting between the bottom two layers for the “lettuce.” Add squiggles of yellow frosting between the top two layers for the “mustard.” (If you’re making a cheeseburger cake, feel free to add another layer of yellow frosting for the “cheese.”) Top it off with a sprinkle of “sesame seeds,” AKA: small dots of white frosting.
When it comes to a fun novelty cake like this, presentation is just as important as flavor. We suggest incorporating it into your decor by making it the focal point of your tablescape. Start by placing it on an eye-catching cake stand to give it height. A white or wood-tone stand works beautifully to contrast the colorful layers of the cake and create a cookout-chic vibe.
If you want to elevate it even further, add some coordinating cake toppers. From thematic birthday candles to American flag food picks, there are lots of ways to make your cake feel extra festive.
The perfect dessert for a 4th of July party, we displayed our hamburger cake on a red, white, and blue tablescape. We served it with our Red Gingham 4th of July Dinner Plates, Dessert Plates, and 4th of July Bow Flag Guest Towels. To add dimension, we alternated our Sky Blue and Cherry Red Cabana Stripe Cups at each setting.
Bonus Tip: Cut the top off a few paper cups to create these darling DIY french fry holders! They’re easy to make and pair perfectly with the burger cake.
Full of versatility, a hamburger cake is also perfect for a fast food-themed party! This theme is fabulous for birthdays, summer gatherings, or quirky graduation parties. Set the scene with food-themed balloons, checkered party supplies, and a menu-inspired food spread.
When it comes to fast food parties, you can never have too many treats. We suggest serving your hamburger cake alongside some food-shaped sugar cookies for an extra layer of fun. You can also send your guests home with a few hot dog, corn cob, and burger-shaped cookies, if they’re too full from the cake!
We hope we’ve inspired you with this quirky DIY dessert. No matter the occasion, a hamburger cake will bring an unforgettable element to every celebration. For more unique party ideas, check out the rest of our blog. From our fête to yours, bonne chance!