Theme cakes for kids

[Ladybug122]

So, DS's birthday party (2yrs!!) is next weekend. Against my better judgement, I am considering making his birthday cake. He's really into the "Polar Express" movie (first words when he wakes up are "Want more Polar"). So, I'm thinking of making a train cake that resembles the train from the movie. Anyone make a train cake before?
Maybe I should re-think this idea...

Re: Theme cakes for kids

I know Wilton offers a train cake pan, and those are very easy to use for beginners. I've made a train cake before - but it was Thomas . It was quite easy and I could tell you how, but since the train itself doesn't have an expression, I don't know that you'd want to make it from that angle.

[Vanquisher]

Re: Theme cakes for kids

I've never made a cake before and DD's birthday is next week. How hard is it for a beginner? I'm heading to Joann's this morning for frames. Am I kidding myself by picking out some cake pans too? I will have BIL around to help me this weekend...

We should join ladybug forces and give it a try.

You need the proper equipment, and plan on it taking at least twice as long as you plan for. Otherwise, it's fairly simple. The directions are included with the pans for the most part.

Re: Theme cakes for kids

Right. The Wilton cake molds are really a lot like the paint-by-numbers. Good explanation Tara. As long as you can make a star (which is easy), you'll be set. Just be prepared for hand cramps.

[peggyfromwastate]

Re: Theme cakes for kids

But if you want a generic train, I think that FamilyFun magazine (and on line) has had some examples of how to make easy trains.

But for a 2 y.o., if you're making a special cake you may just be making it for yourself!!!

Since I totally stink at cakes (seriously- I can't even frost one) I usually just make a small individual cake for the birthday kid, and then I freeze it for a few hours, and then I cut it into the shape of the birthday number.



I know it's not fancy, but I would drive myself nuts trying to make a special one!

Re: Theme cakes for kids

that's really cute Peggy. I assume you don't frost it after you cut it -- that could be a nightmare w/the open ends.

[peggyfromwastate]

Re: Theme cakes for kids

Ummmm, like I said, I am really bad at frosting. So I do frost it after I cut it. :huh:

If I have problems getting frosting wherever, I just squirt on some whipped topping!

(And if it's really bad, I just tell any adult who may care that one of the kids "helped" me with it... I usually have the kids do the sprinkles, so this covers my white lie in my mind. )

[Bittersweet]

Re: Theme cakes for kids

I love that idea Peggy! I think I'll steal it for an upcoming B-Day party for a friend.

[peggyfromwastate]

Re: Theme cakes for kids

There are great chefs on this site-- I am not one of them! This cake is easy enough for me to do, so anyone can do it!!!

[MDPhDWife]

Re: Theme cakes for kids

Wow you guys are good! These cakes are great! I wish I had the patience to try.