vicki lynn photography
As a baker with over a decade of experience crafting show-stopping Halloween desserts, this spider cake is one of my go-to recipes for eerie parties. You'll need: a chocolate cake mix, 2 cans of chocolate icing, black icing color, and candy eyes.
Bake the cake in two 9-inch cake pans according to package directions. While it bakes, cut 8 strips of decorating paper (10-1/2" x 1-1/4"; we used black with polka dots) for the legs. Fold each in half, then attach the ends to the cake stand with double-sided tape. Fold the legs toward the center to create height.
Place the first cake layer on the cake stand, flat side down.
Add small amounts of black icing color to the chocolate icing until you reach the desired shade. Spread a layer on top of the first cake layer.
Place the second cake layer on top of the icing, flat side down.
Frost the entire cake with the dark chocolate frosting. Add candy eyes—or craft store doll eyes (remove before serving for safety).
