How to Make a Perfect Easter Lamb Cake with Nordic Ware’s Classic Pan

A beautifully decorated lamb cake is a nostalgic Easter tradition, and Nordic Ware’s Lamb Cake Pan makes it easy to create a freestanding cake that will be the centerpiece of your holiday table. This classic vintage pan has been a favorite for generations (a pan from our early years!), helping bakers craft adorable, three-dimensional lamb cakes that can be customized with frosting, coconut flakes, or powdered sugar.

Follow this step-by-step guide using our Chocolate Lamb Cake recipe for a successful and delicious Easter treat.

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

For the best results, preheat your oven to 375°F. Generously grease both halves of the lamb mold with solid vegetable shortening or butter, ensuring you reach every detail. Instead of flour, dust with cocoa powder or use a baking spray with flour to prevent sticking while maintaining the cake’s chocolate flavor.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

Using a hand or stand mixer, cream together:

• 1/2 cup butter (or margarine)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 eggs

Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

In a separate bowl, sift together:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

Alternately add the dry ingredients and 3/4 cup buttermilk to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in 2 squares of melted unsweetened chocolate and beat for two minutes until smooth.

Step 3: Fill and Assemble the Mold

Pour about 3 cups of batter into the bottom half of the mold (the side with the lamb’s face). Carefully place the top half of the mold over the bottom, ensuring the seams align. The half with the vent hole should be on top—this allows steam to escape for even baking.

Place the mold on a cookie sheet before putting it in the oven to ensure stability.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted through the vent hole comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the mold for 5-10 minutes before carefully turning it out onto a cooling rack.

If needed, trim the bottom of the cake so it stands upright. Cooling the cake in the refrigerator or freezer before decorating helps create a firmer surface for frosting.

Step 5: Decorate Your Lamb Cake

Once cooled, place a small dab of frosting on your serving plate and stand the cake upright for stability. Decorate as desired with:

• Buttercream or cream cheese frosting
• Shredded coconut for a woolly effect
• Powdered sugar for a simple, elegant look
• Candy eyes, a pink nose, and a ribbon for extra charm

Your lamb cake is now ready to be the highlight of your Easter celebration! Share your beautifully decorated cake with family and friends and enjoy this beloved holiday tradition.

Get full Chocolate Lamb Cake Recipe here

Lamb Cake Decorating Inspiration

Looking for some ideas to take your lamb cake to the next level? Here are some beautifully decorated lamb cakes that will inspire you to get creative with your holiday baking. Whether you prefer a classic, simple design or something more decorated, these ideas are sure to make your Easter celebration extra special.

Watch this creative decorating video by Cake Life Bake Shop (IG @cakelifebakeshop)

Explore More Nordic Ware 3D Cake Pans and Recipes

• Vintage 3D Bunny Pan- Vanilla 3D Bunny Cake
• Bunny in a Basket 3D Cake Pan- 3D Bunny Vanilla Pound Cake