Let’s talk cake. But not just any cake – we’re talking about surreal cakes adorned with nature’s very own jewels: real fruit and real flowers from the garden (or, you know, the organic section at Whole Foods, no judgment here.) It’s a cake trend that’s part Dalí, part botanist, and entirely cool. We love the pageantry of a statement cake and are naming them “Garden Cakes”. Note: This guide is for general information. Always verify with a reputable source before consuming any flower.
These surreal cakes look like Salvador Dalí and your local botanist got tipsy on rosé and decided to play pastry chef. A confectionery fever dream that’s equal parts art installation and dessert. It’s the kind of cake that makes you go, “Is this too pretty to eat?” for approximately 2.5 seconds before you dive in face-first.
We’re calling this the “Garden Cake” trend, the cake equivalent of wearing a vintage Dior gown to grab a coffee – completely unnecessary, slightly impractical, but fabulous.
Next time you’re faced with a cake-worthy occasion (Tuesday counts, right?), raid your garden, your local farmer’s market, or that fancy bodega on the corner.
How to Decorate Your Own Surreal Cakes
The beauty of surreal cakes lies in their imperfection. They’re meant to look a little wild, a touch untamed. Start simple. Pick up some edible flowers from your local fancy grocery (or grow your own if you’re feeling particularly earth mother). Play with placement. There’s no wrong answer when you’re channeling surrealism. In fact, the weirder the better. And when in doubt add a dusting of naturally colored powder, like matcha powder.
For fruit, think beyond the obvious fruits like strawberry. Figs, when sliced, reveal a gorgeous ombre interior that’s practically begging to be showcased. Blackberries channel a moody drama. The key is to have fun, go with imperfection, and the result will be a show-stopping cake with a carefree attitude.
FRUIT, VEGGIES & EDIBLE FLOWERS TO DECORATE WITH
You may be tempted to use flowers and foliage that look great but may be poisonous. We err on the side of safety and only use edible flowers. If you’re dealing with an unknown, always check the safety of every plant/flower you plan to decorate with. Some whole plants are edible and some only part of the plant.
- Edible flowers*: Borage, Nasturtiums, Calendula, Citrus Blossom, Daisies, Dandelions, Hibiscus, Lavender, Lilac, Pansies, Roses, Violets, Cornflowers, Carnations, Chive Blossoms, Chamomile, Garden Pea Blossoms
- Kumquat (and Loquats)
- Figs
- Passionfruit
- Stone fruit: apricot, plum
- Lingonberries
- Pomegranate
- Rhubarb (only the flesh, leaves are poisonous)
- Microgreens
- Herbs: Basil, Rosemary, Cilantro
- Cherries
- Lychee
- Rambutan
- Citrus: Lemon, Orange, Lime
- Berries: Raspberry, Blackberry
- Dragonfruit Powder *
- Matcha Powder
- Blue Butterfly Pea Powder
- Freeze-Dried Dragonfruit Powder
- Cinnamon Powder
*Important Notes on Choosing Flowers
- Always ensure flowers are pesticide-free and grown for culinary use.
- Always be sure to double-check that the flower you are consuming is, in fact, edible and that you are eating the edible part of the plant! If uncertain about a flower’s edibility, consult and reliable source. You can review some common plants on the Poison Control website.
- Some flowers may have inedible parts (e.g., stamens, pistils) that should be removed before consumption.
Sheet Cakes: A Garden Party
A sheet cake is, essentially, a blank canvas of sugary goodness–carte blanche, if you will–waiting to be transformed. Plus, you can pick up pre-made, and decorate it yourself. It’s here where you can let your inner artiste out.
Dome Cakes: Peak Drama
A dome cake is pure drama. The more dramatic the cake the better is my motto.
Round Cakes
Round cakes offer a perfect symmetry that becomes a jumping-off point for asymmetrical, freeform designs. These circular canvases are being transformed into surreal masterpieces that challenge our perceptions of what a cake can be.
Tiered Cakes
Tiered cakes take the whimsical fruit and flower trend to new heights, quite literally. These multi-level creations offer a chance to create vertically impressive, surreal landscapes. For those wanting to try this at home, don’t be intimidated by the idea of multiple tiers. Start with two layers and focus on creating an interesting interplay between them. Use fresh fruits and flowers to connect the layers visually, creating a cohesive design that draws the eye up and down your creation.
