The KitKat Cake has risen to spectacular heights in the dessert world, combining the beloved chocolate wafer bars with a decadent chocolate cake interior. This eye-catching dessert wraps a moist chocolate sponge in a fortress of KitKat bars, creating an instant wow factor that transforms any gathering into a celebration. The visual impact of this cake – with its chocolate ganache frosting, perfectly arranged KitKat perimeter, and colorful candy-topped surface – makes it a centerpiece that guests can’t help but photograph before diving in.
What truly sets the KitKat Cake apart is its brilliant balance of simplicity and impressive presentation. Despite looking like it requires professional pastry skills, this cake remains one of the more approachable showstoppers that home bakers can confidently tackle. The 2025 version has evolved with subtle improvements in technique and presentation, but maintains the nostalgic charm that made it a social media sensation. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply satisfying a serious chocolate craving, this cake delivers on both visual appeal and delicious flavor in every slice.
KitKat Cake
Equipment
- 8-Inch Cake Pans
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup boiling water
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate frosting
- 10 full-size KitKat bars broken into sticks
- 1 cup M&M’s or other small candies for topping
- 1 ribbon decorative ribbon optional, to tie around the cake
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth (it will be thin).
- Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans and bake for 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Spread a layer of chocolate frosting on top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Press the KitKat sticks vertically around the frosted sides of the cake until fully covered.
- Pour M&M’s or other candies over the top of the cake.
- Optional: Wrap a decorative ribbon around the cake to secure the KitKat bars and add a festive touch.
- Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving to help the cake set.
Notes
- Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Customization: Use peanut butter cups, chocolate chips, or crushed cookies instead of M&M’s.
- Serving Tip: Slice with a sharp knife warmed in hot water for clean cuts through the KitKats.
Nutrition
The Irresistible Charm of KitKat Cakes
The KitKat Cake first captured hearts in the early 2010s when creative bakers discovered how perfectly KitKat bars could form a decorative barrier around cake layers. This ingenious design technique quickly spread through food blogs and Pinterest boards, transforming from a novelty to a mainstream dessert option. The cake’s popularity stems from its clever use of pre-made chocolate bars – turning them from simple snacks into sophisticated cake decorations that add both flavor and visual interest.
What makes the KitKat Cake so beloved is its perfect combination of nostalgia and innovation. The familiar taste of KitKat bars brings comfort, while the presentation feels fresh and exciting. This cake represents the perfect balance between homemade goodness and candy aisle favorites, appealing to multiple generations at once. Kids adore the candy elements, while adults appreciate the sophisticated chocolate cake and ganache beneath. The interactive element of breaking off KitKat pieces adds an extra layer of fun that conventional cakes simply don’t offer.
Beyond its visual appeal, the KitKat Cake has remained popular because it’s remarkably adaptable for different occasions. With seasonal M&Ms or color-coordinated candies on top, this cake can transform for holidays, team celebrations, or themed parties. It’s also become a favorite in foodie-themed celebrations where people love photographing eye-catching desserts. Few cakes have maintained such staying power in the world of trendy desserts, but the KitKat Cake has proven to have remarkable longevity.
Everything You Need for the Perfect KitKat Cake
Creating the best KitKat Cake requires gathering the right ingredients and equipment before you begin. This preparation ensures a smooth baking and assembly process. For the chocolate sponge cake that forms the core of this dessert, you’ll need quality ingredients that create a rich, moist texture.
Here’s everything you’ll need to create your KitKat Cake masterpiece:
For the Chocolate Sponge:
- 150g caster sugar
- 2 medium free-range eggs
- 150ml sunflower oil
- 150ml milk
- 2 tbsp golden syrup
- 175g self-raising flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting:
- 100g dark chocolate
- 300g milk chocolate
- 450ml double cream
For Assembly:
- 375g KitKat bars (approximately 10-12 4-finger bars)
- 200g M&Ms, Smarties, or similar colorful candies
- Ribbon for tying around the cake (optional)
Equipment Needed:
- Two 18cm round non-stick cake tins
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Electric whisk or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
- Cake board or serving plate
- Palette knife for spreading frosting
- Kitchen string or ribbon (if using)
While this cake looks complicated, it actually requires minimal specialized equipment. Most of these items are likely already in your kitchen, making this impressive dessert surprisingly accessible. If you enjoy making chocolate chip cookies, you’ll already have most of the equipment needed for this cake.
Step-by-Step KitKat Cake Recipe
This simple KitKat Cake recipe creates a showstopper dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. The rich chocolate layers pair perfectly with the crisp KitKat bars and colorful candy topping. Follow these detailed instructions for guaranteed success.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Assembly Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10-12
Calories: 650 per slice
Nutritional Information (per slice):
Calories: 650
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 62g
Sugar: 48g
Protein: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 280mg
Making the Chocolate Sponge
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease two 18cm round cake tins.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the caster sugar, eggs, sunflower oil, milk, and golden syrup. Whisk until fully incorporated and slightly frothy.
- Sift in the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, and bicarbonate of soda. Gently whisk again until you have a smooth batter with no lumps.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in their tins for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Ganache Frosting
- Break the dark and milk chocolate into small pieces and place in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly (about 5 minutes), then gradually whisk in the double cream until you achieve a thick, spreadable consistency.
- If the ganache seems too runny, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes, checking and stirring occasionally until it reaches the right consistency.
Assembling Your KitKat Cake
- Place one completely cooled cake layer on your serving plate or cake board.
- Spread approximately one-third of the ganache over the top of this layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top, then use the remaining ganache to cover the top and sides of the cake completely.
- Break your KitKat bars along their natural divisions into individual fingers.
- Press the KitKat fingers vertically around the sides of the cake, positioning them as close together as possible to create a fence-like border.
- Pour your M&Ms or Smarties onto the top of the cake, spreading them evenly to completely cover the surface.
- If desired, tie a ribbon around the cake to secure the KitKat bars in place (this is especially helpful if serving the cake later).
This easy KitKat cake recipe creates a dessert that looks professionally made but is actually quite simple to execute. The key to success lies in allowing enough cooling time before assembly and handling the ganache at the right consistency. If you’re looking for other chocolate cake options, chocolate cake recipes can provide additional inspiration for your next baking project.
Creative Variations and Tips for KitKat Cake Success
One of the best things about the KitKat Cake is its versatility and adaptability. This base recipe can be customized in countless ways to suit different occasions, taste preferences, or dietary needs. By changing just a few elements, you can create entirely different versions of this beloved dessert.
Try these exciting variations to make your KitKat Cake uniquely yours:
- Seasonal Adaptations: Use themed M&Ms for holidays – orange and black for Halloween, red and green for Christmas, or pastels for Easter.
- Alternative Candy Toppings: Replace M&Ms with Reese’s Pieces, Skittles, gummy bears, sprinkles, or crushed cookies for different flavors and textures.
- Flavor Twists: Add a layer of caramel, peanut butter, or fruit preserves between the cake layers for unexpected flavor combinations.
- KitKat Variations: Use different KitKat flavors like dark chocolate, white chocolate, or seasonal varieties to change the entire look and taste of your cake.
- Cake Alternatives: Swap the chocolate sponge for red velvet cake, vanilla sponge, or even carrot cake for a surprising twist.
For those looking to perfect their KitKat Cake technique, these professional tips will help ensure success:
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your cake is completely cool before applying ganache to prevent melting.
- Ganache Consistency: The ganache should be spreadable but not runny – if it’s too thin, refrigerate it briefly; if too thick, warm it slightly.
- KitKat Placement: Count your KitKat fingers before beginning and space them evenly around the cake for a professional finish.
- Secure Your Creation: Use a ribbon tied around the cake to hold the KitKat bars in place until serving time.
- Make-Ahead Option: This cake can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for party planning.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with your KitKat Cake. The basic structure remains foolproof even with creative modifications. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider layering different cake flavors or creating a multi-colored interior to surprise guests when the cake is sliced. You can also submit your unique dessert recipe variations if you discover a particularly delicious combination!
Perfect Storage Solutions for Your KitKat Cake
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the freshness and appearance of your KitKat Cake. Due to its candy components and ganache frosting, this cake requires some special consideration to keep it looking and tasting its best. Following these storage guidelines will help preserve your creation whether you need to store it for a few hours or several days.
For short-term storage (same day or overnight):
- Room Temperature: The KitKat Cake can remain at room temperature for up to 6 hours if your kitchen isn’t too warm (below 70°F/21°C).
- Refrigeration: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake, but place it in a cake box or loosely tent with foil to prevent the candies from absorbing other food odors.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep the cake away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent the chocolate from melting or blooming.
For longer-term storage of your KitKat Cake:
- Refrigeration Method: Place the cake in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The ganache will firm up when cold, so allow 30-60 minutes at room temperature before serving.
- Freezing Option: If you need to store the KitKat Cake for longer than 3 days, freezing is your best option. First, place the cake in the freezer uncovered for 2 hours until the exterior hardens, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Thawing Process: When ready to enjoy a frozen KitKat Cake, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw for 24 hours. Then, bring to room temperature for about an hour before serving.
Some important considerations when storing KitKat Cake:
- Texture Changes: Be aware that the KitKat bars may soften slightly during storage, especially in the refrigerator where moisture can affect their crispness.
- Candy Color Bleeding: The colorful coating on M&Ms or Smarties may begin to bleed into the ganache if stored for extended periods, particularly in humid environments.
- Pre-cutting Option: Consider slicing the cake before storage for easier serving later. Store individual slices in airtight containers with parchment paper between them.
When storing KitKat Cake, it’s important to remember that while the cake components remain delicious for days, the visual impact is greatest within the first 24-48 hours after assembly. For special occasions, try to make the cake no more than one day in advance for the most impressive presentation. If you’re a fan of classic chocolate desserts with similar storage requirements, Hershey bar cake has comparable storage properties.
Creating Memories with KitKat Cake
The KitKat Cake isn’t just a dessert – it’s an experience that creates lasting memories around your table. This spectacular chocolate centerpiece transforms ordinary gatherings into celebrations, encouraging interaction as guests break off KitKat fingers and pick their favorite colored candies from the top. The cake’s playful design breaks down the formality often associated with dessert service, allowing for a more relaxed and joyful sharing experience.
Beyond its visual impact, the KitKat Cake represents the perfect balance between homemade effort and achievable results. Unlike complicated pastry creations that might intimidate novice bakers, this cake delivers professional-looking results with relatively simple techniques. The combination of familiar store-bought treats with homemade cake layers creates a dessert that feels both special and approachable. This accessibility has helped make the KitKat Cake a staple at birthday parties, holidays, and family gatherings across the world.
Perhaps the most endearing quality of the KitKat Cake is how it brings people together through a shared love of chocolate. The cake’s generous proportions are designed for sharing, while its universal appeal spans generations – children delight in the candy elements while adults appreciate the rich chocolate ganache and moist cake beneath. In creating this dessert, you’re not just baking a cake; you’re crafting an opportunity for connection, conversation, and shared indulgence. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and share your KitKat Cake experience with others who appreciate extraordinary desserts.