# Components:
→ Cake
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
03 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
04 - 4 large eggs
05 - 1 cup whole milk
06 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
07 - 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
08 - ½ teaspoon salt
→ Buttercream Frosting
09 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
10 - 4 cups powdered sugar
11 - 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
12 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
13 - Assorted food coloring: black, red, blue, green, yellow, purple, and gray
→ Decoration
14 - Assorted colored candies for buttons
15 - Black licorice strings for controller cables (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9x13 inch rectangular cake pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
03 - Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then blend in the vanilla extract.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt to combine evenly.
05 - Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, stirring just until incorporated.
06 - Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
07 - Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
08 - Beat the softened butter until creamy, gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla and milk, whipping until smooth and spreadable.
09 - Divide the frosting into separate bowls and tint with desired food coloring for the controller design.
10 - With a sharp knife, carve the cooled cake into the shape of a classic video game controller, using a printed template if desired.
11 - Cover the cake with a thin crumb coat of gray-colored buttercream and chill for 20 minutes to set.
12 - Apply a smooth final layer of frosting. Pipe outlines and details with black frosting, add colored frosting accents and candies as buttons and joysticks. Optionally, use licorice strings for cable effects.
13 - Refrigerate until ready to serve. Slice and enjoy.
