Making a money cake, also known as a “money gift cake,” is a fun and creative way to present cash as a gift. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make one:
Materials Needed
– A round or square cake (homemade or store-bought)
– Cash bills (newer, crisp bills work best)
– Plastic wrap or clear cellophane
– Ribbon or decorative string
– Cake board or plate
– Optional: additional decorations (sprinkles, frosting, etc.)
Instructions
1. Bake or Buy a Cake: Start with a cake of your choice. You can bake it from scratch or purchase it from a bakery. Make sure it’s cooled completely before decorating.
2. Prepare the Money: Take the cash bills you plan to use. If they’re wrinkled, you might want to iron them gently using a low heat setting without steam.
3. Roll or Fold the Bills: Depending on the size of the cake, you can either roll the bills into tight cylinders or fold them in half. Rolling tends to create a more visually appealing look.
4. Insert the Bills into the Cake:
– For a tiered effect, you can use dowels or straws in the cake to hold the rolled bills upright.
– Alternatively, you can insert the rolled bills into the sides of the cake by gently pushing them in, ensuring they stay upright.
5. Wrap the Cake: Once you have inserted all the bills, cover the cake with plastic wrap or clear cellophane. This will protect the cake while showcasing the money inside.
6. Decorate the Cake: Use frosting, sprinkles, or other decorations to make the cake visually appealing. You can add a message on top that indicates it’s a money cake.
7. Add a Ribbon: Tie a ribbon around the cake for a festive touch. You can also attach a tag indicating the occasion (like birthdays, graduations, etc.).
8. Present the Cake: Place the cake on a cake board or plate and present it to the recipient. When they cut into the cake, they’ll be surprised to find the cash hidden inside!
Tips
– Consider using themed decorations related to the occasion for a more personalized touch.
– Make sure the bills are clean and undamaged for best presentation.
– You can also create a layered effect by stacking smaller cakes if you want to include more money.
This money cake not only serves as a delicious treat but also as a memorable gift!
