Snake Cake

It seems like forever since I have been able to post a picture of a cake.  Probably because it has been forever since I have made one.  I was nervous about this one.  Mainly because I am less than a couple weeks from having a new baby.  I didn't know if I would be able to make a cake that I would be happy with.  No worries the birthday boy and this mama were very pleased with the results. 

The cake is three round cakes that I carved just a bit to give it more snake like curves.  The head and the tail were both fondant.   

To get the snake skin texture I used one of those plastic orange bags that your oranges come in.  Then I painted it using a little bit of clear vanilla and gel food coloring.

I thought he would never ask for anything other than a Thomas cake.  The kids love catching snakes in the yard.  He was excited to have a snake cake for his birthday. 

6 years?  He is getting so big.  In just a month our oldest will be 8!!  I remember when they were so much younger.  I love that they are growing up and the kids they are, but it does make me sad too.

Easy Custard Cream Cake Filling

Once again it is cake time.  Doble is celebrating his 6th birthday on the 12th.  However, with our new baby arriving on the 16th and another family celebration on the 12th, his birthday party will be a week early.  Doesn't hurt my feelings.  In fact it makes it a bit easier to get it done and out of the way before the new baby arrives.  I thought I would share with you a favorite filling amongst the kids for thier cakes.

This can be done with any flavor of pudding.  However, my kids love the Oreo pudding filling with added oreos crushed on top. 

Easy Custard Cream Filling

1 large box of instant pudding (any flavor)

1 cup milk

1/2 cup whipping cream

1 tsp honey (I have done this with or without the honey)

1.  On low/medium speed whip all ingredients until incorporated.

2.  Thicken on medium high/high speed.

3.  Let set for an hour or so before using (I usually make this a day ahead.  I like to make my frosting the day of so this eliminates having to make too many things all on the same day.

Tips:

Before using in your cake, create a dam using frosting.  This will keep your filling from oozing out the sides.

Flavor Variations:

Vanilla with fresh strawberries

White chocolate with raspberries

Chocolate with chocolate chip

The flavors are endless.