What Makes Giant Eagle Cake So Special?
Have you ever walked into a bakery and been stopped in your tracks by the smell of freshly baked cake? That’s exactly what happened to me when I first stumbled upon the giant eagle cake. It wasn’t just the aroma that hooked me—it was the way this cake seemed to bring people together. Whether it’s for a birthday, an anniversary, or just because, this cake has a magical way of making any occasion feel special. After testing the recipe countless times for my family and friends, I can confidently say it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
A Little History Behind the Giant Eagle Cake
The giant eagle cake isn’t just another dessert; it’s a tradition. While its exact origins are a bit fuzzy, it’s clear that this cake is a staple in many households thanks to its availability at Giant Eagle bakeries. I remember flipping through the giant eagle cake catalog for the first time, marveling at the variety of designs and flavors. From classic chocolate to festive holiday-themed cakes, there’s something for everyone. Over the years, I’ve seen how this cake has evolved—now you can even customize it online through giant eagle cake ordering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let’s talk about why this cake deserves a spot in your recipe book. First off, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a fan of rich chocolate or prefer lighter vanilla, this cake can be tailored to your taste. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make. Even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow. And let’s not forget the price—giant eagle cake prices are reasonable, especially when you consider the quality and size of the cake. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite.
Perfect Occasions for Giant Eagle Cake
This cake shines at birthdays, holidays, and casual get-togethers. Need a last-minute dessert for a potluck? The giant eagle cake has got you covered. I’ve served it at everything from baby showers to game nights, and it’s always a hit. If you’re planning a big event, don’t forget to check the giant eagle bakery hours to ensure you can pick up your order on time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- Frosting of your choice (buttercream or cream cheese works great)
Substitution Options
- Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free option.
- Replace vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor.
- Opt for a store-bought frosting if you’re short on time.
Preparation Section
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans to prevent sticking. I always use a little extra flour on the sides to make sure the cake slides out effortlessly. Pro tip: Line the bottom of the pans with parchment paper for extra insurance.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. The dry mixture should look rich and chocolatey, like the perfect base for your masterpiece. Make sure there are no lumps in the cocoa powder—smoothness is key!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture will have a silky texture and a subtle vanilla aroma that’s absolutely irresistible. Chef’s tip: Use room-temperature eggs for a smoother blend.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently. Once combined, slowly add the boiling water while stirring. The batter will thin out, but don’t worry—it’s supposed to be that way. The steam from the hot water enhances the cocoa’s flavor, making it richer and more decadent.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As the cake bakes, your kitchen will fill with the most amazing chocolatey scent. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
Timing
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Resting time: 1 hour (for cooling)
- Total time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Chef’s Secret
Here’s a little secret: chill your cake layers in the fridge for 15 minutes before frosting. This makes them firmer and easier to work with, ensuring a smooth finish. It’s a trick I learned after a few frosting mishaps!
Extra Info
Did you know that Giant Eagle bakeries also offer delicious cookies? The giant eagle bakery cookies are a perfect complement to this cake if you’re looking to create a full dessert spread. Pair them with a cup of coffee for an afternoon treat.
Necessary Equipment
- Two round cake pans (8 or 9 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Cooling rack
Storage
To keep your giant eagle cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warm climate, refrigerate it to prevent the frosting from melting. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
If you’ve frosted the cake with buttercream, avoid stacking other items on top to prevent squishing. Cream cheese frosting, on the other hand, holds up better but should still be kept cool.
Always label your containers with the date so you know how long the cake has been stored. A slice of cake that’s been frozen for over a month might still be safe to eat, but the texture won’t be as delightful.
Tips and Advice
One of the best tips I can give is to level your cake layers before frosting. Use a serrated knife to trim the tops if they’re domed. This ensures even layers and a professional look. Another pro tip: sift your powdered sugar before making frosting to avoid lumps.
Presentation Tips
- Sprinkle edible glitter or sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Top with fresh berries for a pop of color.
- Use piping bags to create decorative borders.
- Add a personalized message with fondant letters.
Healthier Alternative Recipes
Want to enjoy this cake guilt-free? Here are six variations:
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and gluten-free baking powder.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and water.
- Low-Sugar: Substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Paleo: Use coconut flour and honey instead of refined sugar.
- Keto: Swap flour with almond or coconut flour and use sugar substitutes.
- Fruit-Infused: Add mashed bananas or applesauce for natural sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Overmixing the Batter
Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. If you see streaks of flour, that’s okay—they’ll disappear during baking.
Mistake 2: Skipping the Cooling Step
Rushing to frost a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Patience is key here. Let the layers cool completely on a rack.
Mistake 3: Using Cold Eggs
Cold eggs can cause the batter to separate. Always let your eggs come to room temperature before using them.
FAQ
How do I order a giant eagle cake?
You can place an order through the giant eagle cake ordering section on their website or call your local giant eagle bakery phone number. They offer a wide range of customization options.
What are giant eagle cake prices like?
Prices vary depending on size and design. Generally, they’re affordable, starting at around $20 for a basic cake.
Absolutely! Their bakery menu includes a variety of cookies that pair beautifully with the cake.
Do they offer vegan options?
Yes, you can request vegan-friendly cakes by calling ahead to confirm availability.
What are giant eagle bakery hours?
Bakery hours typically align with store hours, but it’s best to check locally for specifics.
Is walmart cake ordering similar?
While Walmart offers cake ordering, Giant Eagle’s selection and customization options are often more extensive.
How far in advance should I order?
For custom designs, it’s wise to order at least a week in advance.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes, there are plenty of substitution options listed above to suit dietary needs.
What frosting works best?
Buttercream and cream cheese frosting are both excellent choices.
How long does the cake stay fresh?
Stored properly, it stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
The giant eagle cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors, memories, and togetherness. Whether you’re baking it at home or picking one up from the bakery, this cake is sure to bring joy to any occasion. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch as it becomes a family favorite too!

Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Two round cake pans
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- to taste frosting of your choice buttercream or cream cheese works great
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently, then slowly add the boiling water while stirring.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.


