
Why is It Called a Princess Cake? The Sweet Swedish Story Behind This Royal Dessert
Ever wondered why it's called a princess cake? Discover the real story behind Sweden's prettiest dessert, its royal roots, and the secrets to making your own.
If you’ve ever wanted to make a cake that feels straight out of a storybook, you’re in the right place. A princess cake doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive – just a few basics and a splash of imagination can turn a plain sponge into a regal centerpiece.
First, think about the flavor. Classic vanilla or chocolate works for most kids, but adding a hint of strawberry or raspberry gives a pretty pink hue that matches the princess theme. You can even split the batter and color one half pink for a fun marbled effect.
Start with a reliable vanilla cake mix or homemade batter. Beat butter, sugar, eggs, and a splash of milk until fluffy, then fold in flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Bake in round 8‑inch pans for about 25 minutes, then let cool completely before frosting.
For frosting, a smooth buttercream works best. Mix softened butter, powdered sugar, a dash of vanilla, and a little milk until you reach a spreadable consistency. Add pink food coloring a drop at a time until you hit your desired shade. If you love sparkle, stir in edible glitter or shimmer dust for extra magic.
Layer the cooled cakes with frosting, then cover the whole cake with a thin “crumb coat” to lock in crumbs. Chill for 15 minutes, then apply a final smooth layer of pink buttercream. This gives a clean canvas for decorations.
Now for the fun part – the toppers. You can buy ready‑made princess figurines, but homemade options add a personal touch. Use polymer clay to sculpt a tiny crown, wand, or even a miniature castle. Bake according to the clay instructions, then paint with acrylics.
If clay isn’t your thing, try edible toppers. Pipe small rosettes with a star tip, or cut out castle silhouettes from fondant and paint them with edible gold paint. Sugar pearls or silver dragees sprinkled around the edges give a glimmering border.
Don't forget the sides. Use piped rosettes, ruffles, or lace patterns to mimic a princess gown. A simple chocolate drizzle in a swirl can mimic a glittering sash. Finish with a few fresh berries or edible flowers for a pop of color.
When you assemble everything, start with the cake base, add a border of rosettes, place your crown or castle topper, and finish with a dusting of glitter. Step back, snap a photo, and watch the faces light up.
With these easy steps, you can create a princess cake that feels luxurious without the fuss. Whether it’s a birthday, a princess party, or just a fun baking day, your cake will star in its own fairy‑tale moment.
Ever wondered why it's called a princess cake? Discover the real story behind Sweden's prettiest dessert, its royal roots, and the secrets to making your own.