Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars

• In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will keep your cake tender.

Step 7: Fold in the Sprinkles

• Gently fold in ½ cup of the Halloween sprinkles. This adds a festive touch and fun bursts of color throughout the cake!

Step 8: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and slightly firm to the touch.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here—frosting a warm cake can lead to a melty mess!

Step 10: Make the Frosting

• While the cake cools, prepare your frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth and fluffy. If your frosting is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 11: Divide and Color the Frosting

• Divide the frosting into two bowls. Use black food coloring in one bowl and orange in the other, mixing until you reach your desired shades.

Step 12: Frost the Cake

• Once the cake is completely cool, spread a layer of orange frosting on top. Then, use a spatula or piping bag to add black frosting in fun swirls or patterns. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Step 13: Decorate!

• Finally, sprinkle the remaining Halloween sprinkles on top, and add your favorite candies for a spooktacular finish.

Optional Step: Serve It Up

• Cut the cake into squares and serve it at your next Halloween gathering. Everyone will love the festive look and delicious taste!