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–+ servings
Before and after view of a burn-away cake revealing a photo under edible paper

Burn-Away Cake Reveal

A show-stopping layered cake with a magical edible image reveal! Light the top wafer paper on fire to unveil a hidden message or photo underneath—perfect for gender reveals, proposals, and special occasions.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 12 slices
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box vanilla or chocolate cake mix or use your favorite homemade recipe
  • eggs, oil, and water as per cake mix instructions
  • 3 cups buttercream frosting for crumb coat and outer layer
  • food coloring optional, for pastel piping
  • piping bags and star tips for floral decoration
  • 1 edible frosting sheet with hidden image or message
  • 1 wafer paper printed with edible ink for burn-away top layer
  • 1 lighter or long match for reveal
  • gold or pink luster dust optional, for drama

Instructions
 

  • Bake two 8-inch round cakes according to cake mix or homemade recipe instructions. Let cool completely and level the tops for stacking.
  • Add a layer of buttercream frosting between the cakes. Apply a crumb coat and chill for 30 minutes.
  • Frost the entire cake with a smooth final layer of buttercream.
  • Gently place the edible frosting sheet with your hidden image in the center of the cake. Press lightly to adhere and smooth the edges.
  • Cut a matching size piece of wafer paper printed with your burn-away design. Carefully place it directly on top of the frosting sheet.
  • Decorate the cake with piped florals, shells, or swirls to frame the wafer paper and hide seams. Add name or message using buttercream.
  • Optional: add edible pearls, flowers, or luster dust to enhance the design.
  • To reveal the hidden image, use a long lighter or match to ignite a corner of the wafer paper. Watch it safely burn away, unveiling the surprise.
  • Ensure safety by supervising the reveal and keeping water nearby.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality edible images and flame-safe materials. Avoid plastic decorations near the burn-away layer. This cake is perfect for milestone celebrations like gender reveals, proposals, and birthdays.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 3gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 60mgSugar: 42gVitamin A: 600IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg
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