As the sun sets earlier and the crisp air settles in, my kitchen transforms into a hub of creativity, ready for Halloween festivities. One evening, while sifting through my pantry’s treasures, I uncovered a box of Pillsbury Halloween sugar cookies that sparked a delightful idea. Why not merge the joy of spooky treats with the fluffy indulgence of cake? Thus, my Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake was born—a whimsical three-layer sponge cake that’s not just a visual showstopper but also a delectable delight that marries tender sponge layers with lusciously whipped cream and crunchy cookie bits. This cake is perfect for impressing both tiny trick-or-treaters and adults alike at any Halloween gathering. Join me as we dive into creating this festive masterpiece that’s guaranteed to be the highlight of your spooky celebrations!

Why is the Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake perfect?

Whimsical Design: Each layer of this cake features fun Halloween shapes like jack-o’-lanterns and ghosts that will surely delight your guests.
Light and Fluffy: The sponge layers paired with rich whipped cream create a dreamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up this festive treat without any hassle.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for Halloween parties or family gatherings, this cake will be a favorite among both kids and adults.
Versatile Flavors: Feel free to experiment by adding spices or fruit for a unique twist that suits your taste.
For an extra touch of fun, consider trying my alternative flavor ideas to make your cake even more festive!

Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this festive treat!

For the Batter

Egg Yolks – Structure and richness. For a lighter cake, use whole eggs instead of just yolks.
Sugar (for yolk batter) – Sweetness and moisture. Brown sugar can add a deeper flavor.
Vegetable Oil – Moisture and tenderness. Can substitute with melted butter for a richer taste.
Whole Milk – Hydration and fat content. Almond or soy milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
Vanilla Extract – Flavor enhancement. Use pure vanilla for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour – Base structure for the cake layers. Gluten-free flour can be substituted for a gluten-free option.
Cornstarch – Lightens the texture of the cake. Omit for a denser cake.
White Vinegar – Stabilizes the batter and helps with leavening. Can be replaced with lemon juice.
Egg Whites – Leavening agent for fluffiness. Fold gently into the batter to avoid deflation.
Sugar (for egg whites) – Sweetness and structure. Use the same substitution as the yolk sugar.

For the Decoration

Gel Food Dye – Provides vibrant color for decorating. Liquid food dye can also be used, but may alter consistency.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Makes the whipped frosting. Coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free frosting.
Confectioners Sugar – Sweetness and stabilizing agent for whipped cream. Use granulated sugar for a crunchier texture if desired.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor. Sea salt can add a different flavor profile.

For Assembly

Crushed Pillsbury Sugar Cookies (optional) – Adds texture and flavor to the layers. Choose any festive cookie for decoration.

How to Make Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake

Prepare Pans: Start by cutting parchment paper to fit your cake pans and line the bottoms. Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, ensuring even release after baking.
Bake Sponge Layers: In one bowl, mix egg yolks, sugar, vegetable oil, whole milk, and vanilla until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and white vinegar. Combine mixtures and fold in whipped egg whites until fluffy. Divide the batter among the prepared pans and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before removing from pans.
Whip the Cream: In a stand mixer, beat heavy whipping cream with confectioners’ sugar, salt, and vanilla. Whip until stiff peaks form. If you’d like, fold in crushed Pillsbury Halloween sugar cookies for extra flavor and texture.
Assemble the Cake: Place the first sponge layer on a serving plate and generously spread a layer of whipped cream on top. Repeat this process with the second layer, and finish with the third. Decorate the top layer with remaining whipped cream and preferred designs.
Decorate: To achieve a professional look, trim the sides of the cake if necessary. Use remaining whipped cream for piping decorations and sprinkle more crushed cookies on top for a festive touch.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake into wedges and serve at your Halloween gathering, captivating everyone with its vibrant colors and delicious flavors.

Optional: Drizzle some chocolate syrup on top for an extra sweet treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake Variations

Ready to play with your spooky cake creation? Let your imagination run wild and customize this delightful dessert into a unique masterpiece!

Chocolate Swirl: Add cocoa powder to half of the batter for a rich chocolate layer that complements the festive flavors beautifully.
Pumpkin Spice: Mix in pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spices to the batter for a seasonal twist that screams autumn.
Fruit Layers: Incorporate layers of fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries between the sponge layers for a burst of freshness.
Nutty Surprise: Toss in chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch and added texture in each slice.
Zesty Lemon: Replace vanilla extract with lemon extract and add lemon zest to elevate the cake’s flavor profile with a zesty kick.
Cinnamon Sugar Top: Sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of the cake before serving for an extra layer of flavor and festive flair.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top and sides of the cake for a sweet and indulgent touch that will wow your guests.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream for the frosting and almond milk in the cake mix for a delicious dairy-free version everyone can enjoy.

Embrace the spirit of Halloween by mixing and matching these variations to create an unforgettable centerpiece for your celebration!

Make Ahead Options

These Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the sponge layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply let them cool completely, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to keep them fresh. Additionally, the whipped cream can be prepared up to 3 days ahead—just whip it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the cake by layering the sponge with whipped cream and decorating it once it’s out of the refrigerator. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready for your Halloween gathering with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake

Fridge: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 4 days. This will help maintain the fluffy texture and prevent the whipped cream from fading.

Freezer: You can freeze slices of the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for added protection.

Thawing: To enjoy your frozen slice, simply transfer it to the fridge the night before serving or leave it at room temperature for about an hour. Avoid microwaving, as it can change the cake’s texture.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes. This works best for enjoying the delightful flavors of your Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake!

What to Serve with Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake?

As you prepare to unveil this festive showstopper, consider what delectable delights can accompany it for a complete Halloween feast.

Spooky Punch: A fruity, bubbly punch filled with gummy worms and slices of citrus adds whimsy and refreshment to your celebration.
Crispy Apple Slices: Sweet and tart apple slices drizzled with caramel offer a refreshing, crunchy contrast that balances the cake’s sweetness.
Ghostly Marshmallow Treats: These fun treats made with melted marshmallows and rice cereal can be decorated like little ghosts, making them a treat both kids and adults will love.
Pumpkin Soup Shots: Silky smooth and spiced to perfection, a small shot of pumpkin soup brings warmth and holiday flavors to your table.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch complements the sweet cake beautifully, leaving guests with an irresistible combination of flavors.
Halloween-Themed Cookies: Offer an array of decorated cookies shaped like bats, ghosts, or pumpkins to keep the festive spirit flowing.

Pairing these delightful items with the Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake promises a merry Halloween gathering filled with joy and delicious memories.

Expert Tips for the Best Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake

Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precise measurements ensure your cake’s texture turns out light and fluffy. Use a kitchen scale for best results.
Cool Layers Completely: Allow the sponge layers to cool fully before assembly to prevent the whipped cream from melting. Patience pays off!
Chill Your Tools: For best whipping results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand. This helps achieve the perfect fluffy frosting for your cake.
Frost Quickly: Assemble and frost the cake soon after whipping the cream. This ensures your Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake looks as good as it tastes.
Don’t Skimp on Decorations: Plenty of festive toppings make the cake visually appealing and fun for Halloween! Let your creativity shine with cookies and colorful designs.

Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of eggs should I use for this recipe?
For the best texture and richness in your Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake, it’s recommended to use egg yolks. If you’re looking for a lighter sponge, you can substitute with whole eggs instead.

How long can I store the cake?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the cake fresh and helps maintain its fluffy texture without compromising the whipped cream!

Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze slices of the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This will preserve their delightful flavors and textures. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge or set them out at room temperature for about an hour.

What should I consider if I have food allergies?
If you have specific dietary considerations, such as gluten intolerance or dairy allergies, you can easily adjust the recipe! Use gluten-free flour for the cake and substitute whole milk with almond or soy milk for a dairy-free version. For the whipped cream, opt for coconut cream, which is a great dairy-free alternative.

How can I prevent overmixing the batter?
To maintain the light and fluffy texture of the cake, be sure to gently fold in the whipped egg whites. Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense. The secret is to use a spatula to cut through the batter, lifting and folding it until just combined.

Can I use other colors of gel food dye?
Yes, you can definitely experiment with different colors of gel food dye! This will add a fun twist and can make your Pillsbury Halloween Sugar Cookie Designed Sponge Cake even more festive. Just keep in mind that using too much dye may alter the consistency, so start with small amounts for the desired effect.