5 Inspiring Surprise-Inside Cakes

"When I presented this cake to my sweet husband, he thought I had just put some big candles on the cake. When I took a fork and cut into the candle, he was shocked! I would pay money to see that expression on his face again. It takes a lot to surprise him," Amanda comments. The secret to the cake candles is baking the batter in different-sized aluminum cans.

Source: Susan Powers Photography

Layers of brownie, strawberry cake, and whipped cream form this hi-hat cake, which is then coated in chocolate buttercream and melted chocolate chips. Amanda says, "Every day I teach my kids not to be selfish. . . . On the day I made this cake, I cast selflessness to the wind. I couldn't help it. . . . It's probably the easiest cake in the book. If you can turn on a mixer, you can do it. Heck, you don't even need a mixer. Just give it a shot. I promise you won't be disappointed."

Source: Susan Powers Photography

Kids and adults will get a kick out of this adorable bunny cake, perfect for Easter. Amanda jokes, "This is one of my favorite cakes ever. I want to hold it close and never let go, but I might look silly with big pink and white melted chocolate ears stuck on my shirt. But in all honesty, I wish I could give this cake to you. . . . So, if you decide to make this cake, know it's an extension of my heart."

Source: Susan Powers Photography

This cake is serious and involves baking six colorful layers in addition to the four white cake layers. But, it's a labor of love with a captivating final result. It could be a wonderful way to show LGBT friends and family some support during Gay Pride.

Source: Susan Powers Photography

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a patriotic red velvet and vanilla cake topped with ruffly blue icing. Make it bipartisan by piping on both elephants and donkeys along the side of the cake.

Source: Susan Powers Photography