Creating an adorable Bunny Cut-Up Cake is a fun and simple way to bring Easter cheer to your table. With two round cakes, a few easy cuts, and some creativity, you can assemble a delightful bunny-shaped cake that looks like it came straight from a bakery. No special cake pan is needed, and you can decorate it with frosting, coconut, or candies to suit your style.

This cake is not just about how cute it looks—it is also deliciously moist and flavorful. You can use any cake flavor you love, from classic vanilla to rich chocolate or even carrot cake for a festive spring touch. Whether you are making it for a holiday gathering, a birthday, or simply as a fun weekend baking project, this step-by-step tutorial will guide you through the process with ease.

One of the best parts about this recipe is that it is kid-friendly. Little bakers will love helping with the decorating, making it a fun family activity. Plus, since you are using a basic round cake, you can make this bunny cake without any complicated techniques. If you are looking for a creative and eye-catching dessert that is also easy to make, this Bunny Cut-Up Cake is the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a great option for both beginner and experienced bakers. It allows for endless customization, so you can create a bunny cake that fits your theme, favorite flavors, and preferred decorations. Here are some key reasons why you will love making this cake:

No special equipment needed – You only need two 9-inch round cake pans, a knife, and a baking sheet.
Simple cutting instructions – The template makes it easy to cut and assemble the bunny shape without guesswork.
Perfect for any skill level – Whether you are a seasoned baker or new to cake decorating, this cake is easy to make and fun to decorate.
Budget-friendly – Using just one cake mix and a few pantry staples, this cake is an affordable way to make an impressive dessert.

Health Benefits

While this cake is a delightful treat, you can make small adjustments to create a healthier version. By swapping out a few traditional ingredients, you can reduce sugar and fat while still enjoying a delicious cake.

Use whole wheat flour or almond flour – If making the cake from scratch, using whole wheat or almond flour can add fiber and nutrients.
Reduce sugar – You can cut back on sugar by using natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or mashed bananas.
Greek yogurt for moisture – Replacing some of the butter or oil with Greek yogurt helps keep the cake moist while adding protein and probiotics.
Use a healthier frosting – Instead of traditional buttercream, try whipped Greek yogurt frosting or a light cream cheese frosting made with reduced sugar.
Add fresh fruit – Mixing in grated carrots, apples, or zucchini can add natural sweetness and fiber without compromising the flavor.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before you start baking, here is a breakdown of the estimated time and serving size for this bunny cake:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Decorating Time: 30-45 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

This recipe serves 10-12 people, making it ideal for family gatherings and celebrations.

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on a standard vanilla cake with buttercream frosting and coconut topping):

Calories: 350-400 kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Sugar: 35g
Fiber: 2g

Ingredients List

The Cake

1 box cake mix (any flavor of your choice) or homemade cake batter
1 box instant pudding mix (same flavor as the cake) for extra moisture
4 large eggs
⅓ cup melted butter or vegetable oil
1 cup milk or buttermilk for a richer texture

The Frosting

1 cup butter (softened) or a mix of butter and shortening for stability
8 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4-6 tablespoons milk or cream to adjust the consistency
Food coloring (optional) for decorating the ears and bow tie

Decoration

Shredded coconut (white or colored with food dye) for a fluffy look
Pink and green sprinkles for the ears and bow tie
Jelly beans, M&Ms, or chocolate chips for the eyes and nose
Licorice strings or thin Twizzlers for whiskers
Piping bags and decorating tips (Wilton 18, 12, and 3 are recommended)

These simple ingredients make it easy to create a beautiful and delicious bunny cake.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, melted butter, and milk. Mix until smooth.
Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cut the Bunny Shape

Once the cakes are completely cooled, leave one cake whole—this will be the bunny’s head.
Place the second cake on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut according to a bunny template:
- Two outer pieces will become the ears.
- The center piece will become the bow tie.
Arrange the pieces on a large tray or serving board to form the bunny shape.

Frost the Cake

Prepare the frosting by beating the butter and vanilla extract until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until smooth and spreadable.
Apply a thin crumb coat over the entire cake and let it set for 15 minutes. This helps prevent crumbs from mixing into the final layer.
Spread a thick, even layer of frosting over the entire cake.

Decorate the Bunny

Sprinkle shredded coconut over the frosting to give the bunny a fluffy appearance.
Tint some coconut pink for the inner ears and green for the bow tie, then press it into the appropriate areas.
Use candy eyes and a pink jelly bean nose to create the bunny’s face.
Add licorice whiskers and pipe a cute mouth using a small piping tip.
Decorate the bow tie with colored sprinkles or candy buttons for a festive touch.

How to Serve

Once your Bunny Cut-Up Cake is fully decorated and ready to go, it is time to serve it in the most delightful way possible. Since this cake is designed to be a centerpiece dessert, you want to present it in a way that highlights its adorable shape and festive decorations. Here are some creative ways to serve your bunny cake for Easter or any springtime celebration.

On a Decorative Serving Board – Place the bunny cake on a large wooden or marble board to make it the focal point of your dessert table. Sprinkle some extra shredded coconut or pastel-colored sprinkles around it for a festive touch.
With a Side of Fresh Berries – Serve slices of the bunny cake with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the fruit pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake and adds a pop of color.
Alongside Mini Easter Treats – Arrange some chocolate eggs, marshmallow bunnies, or pastel macarons around the bunny cake for an extra-special presentation.
Drizzled with Chocolate or Caramel Sauce – If you want to make your cake even more decadent, drizzle a little melted dark chocolate or homemade caramel sauce over each slice before serving.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream – Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla bean, strawberry, or coconut ice cream for a creamy and delicious contrast.

Pairing Suggestions

A festive cake like this deserves perfect pairings to enhance its flavors and complete the dessert experience. Since the Bunny Cut-Up Cake is light and sweet, you can complement it with beverages and side treats that balance the flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Beverages

Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream – A cozy and creamy hot chocolate pairs beautifully with the bunny cake, especially if you are serving it on a cool spring evening.
Strawberry or Vanilla Milkshake – A fruity milkshake is a fun, kid-friendly drink that enhances the sweetness of the cake.
Iced Tea with Lemon and Mint – A refreshing iced herbal tea with hints of citrus helps balance the sweetness of the cake.
Freshly Squeezed Lemonade – The tangy and refreshing taste of homemade lemonade complements the richness of the frosting.
Coffee or Espresso – For adults, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a shot of espresso provides a wonderful contrast to the sweet cake.

Side Treats

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries – The juicy, tart flavor of fresh strawberries coated in chocolate adds a sophisticated touch to your Easter dessert table.
Mini Carrot Cupcakes – Since carrot cake is a classic springtime favorite, adding mini carrot cupcakes with cream cheese frosting will complement the flavors of the bunny cake.
Coconut Macaroons – These chewy, coconut-packed treats pair well with the coconut-covered bunny cake and create a cohesive dessert theme.
Pastel Sugar Cookies – A batch of soft sugar cookies decorated with Easter-themed icing makes a delightful side treat for kids and adults.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

If you have leftover bunny cake (which is rare because it is so delicious), you will want to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Here is the best way to store, freeze, and reheat your bunny cake so that it stays fresh.

How to Store Bunny Cake

At Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within one to two days, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight cake container or covered with plastic wrap. Keep it in a cool, dry place.
In the Refrigerator: If your kitchen is warm or if the cake has cream cheese frosting, store it in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.

How to Freeze Bunny Cake

Freezing the Whole Cake: If you want to prepare this cake ahead of time, assemble and decorate it completely, then place it on a baking sheet and freeze it for 1-2 hours until firm. Once set, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Freezing Slices: If you have leftovers, slice the cake into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Bunny Cake

From the Refrigerator: If stored in the fridge, let the cake come to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
From the Freezer: If frozen, allow the cake to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, bring it to room temperature before serving to restore its soft texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Bunny Cut-Up Cake turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common baking and decorating mistakes:

Not Letting the Cake Cool Completely – Cutting the cake while it is still warm will cause it to crumble and break apart. Be patient and allow it to cool fully before cutting and assembling.
Overmixing the Batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cake. Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined.
Using a Dull Knife to Cut the Cake – A sharp serrated knife will give you cleaner edges when cutting out the bunny shape.
Skipping the Crumb Coat – Applying a thin layer of frosting before the final coat helps seal in crumbs, making the frosting process smoother.

Pro Tips for the Best Bunny Cake

To make your bunny cake truly stand out, here are some professional baking and decorating tips:

Chill the Cake Layers Before Cutting – Cold cake layers are firmer and easier to cut without crumbling. Place them in the fridge for 30 minutes before assembling.
Use a Cake Board for Easy Transport – If taking the cake to a party, place it on a sturdy cake board for stability.
Tint Coconut with Gel Food Coloring – For a vibrant and even color, use gel food coloring mixed with a tiny bit of water before tossing it with shredded coconut.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and frost it the next day. The fully assembled cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Can I use homemade cake batter instead of cake mix?

Absolutely! Any homemade vanilla, chocolate, or carrot cake recipe works well.

Can I use whipped cream instead of buttercream frosting?

Yes, but whipped cream is less stable and should be refrigerated if not served immediately.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now that you have everything you need to make this adorable Bunny Cut-Up Cake, it is time to get baking! Whether you are making it for Easter, a birthday, or just for fun, this cake is guaranteed to be a showstopper. If you try this recipe, share your bunny cake photos and tag me—I would love to see your creations! Happy baking!

Bunny Cut-Up Cake

Author: Julianne Carter
Total Time: 2 hours (includes cooling & decorating)
Yield: 10-12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Bunny Cut-Up Cake is a fun and festive Easter dessert made from two round cakes, no special pan required! With simple cutting and decorating techniques, you can create an adorable bunny-shaped cake perfect for Easter celebrations, birthdays, or springtime gatherings.

Ingredients

Cake: 1 box cake mix (any flavor), 1 box instant pudding mix, 4 eggs, ⅓ cup melted butter, 1 cup milk
Frosting: 1 cup butter, 8 cups powdered sugar, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 4-6 tbsp milk
Decorations: Shredded coconut, pink and green food coloring, jelly beans, chocolate chips, licorice whiskers

Instructions

Bake the Cake – Preheat oven to 350°F, prepare two 9-inch cake pans, mix ingredients, bake for 25 minutes, then cool completely.
Cut the Bunny Shape – Keep one cake whole for the head, cut the second cake into ears and a bow tie using a simple template.
Assemble the Bunny – Arrange the pieces on a board to form a bunny shape.
Frost and Decorate – Spread frosting over the cake, add shredded coconut for a fluffy look, and use candy for the bunny’s face and bow tie.

Notes

Chill the cake before cutting for cleaner edges.
Use a piping bag for extra decorative details.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American