1-Getting ready: getting ready for a gender reveal pinata cake is like planning a little adventure in your kitchen! Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing three 8-inch round cake pans with cooking spray, then line them with parchment paper for easy release. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240 ml) milk, 6 large egg whites (about ¾ cup), 2 teaspoons almond extract, and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract to create a smooth liquid mixture.

2-Next, in a separate bowl with a paddle attachment, combine 2 ¼ cups (250 g) cake flour, 1 ½ cups (300 g) sugar, 4 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt on low speed. Add 12 tablespoons (1 ½ sticks / 170 g) softened unsalted butter and mix until no dry spots remain, blending everything evenly. Now, pour in half of the milk mixture and beat on medium speed for 1 ½ minutes, then add the rest and beat for another minute, scraping the bowl to keep it uniform.

3-Divide the batter evenly among the pans, smooth the tops, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes rest for 3 minutes, loosen the edges, and invert them onto wire racks to cool completely. For the frosting, beat 8 oz (225 g) softened cream cheese and 8 tablespoons (1 stick / 115 g) softened unsalted butter until fluffy, then add 4 cups (450 g) powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Beat on low until absorbed, then medium-high until creamy.

4-Assembling the Piñata Surprise: Once cooled, cut the cakes horizontally into six even layers, reserving two whole ones for the bottom and top. Cut 2.5-inch circles from the centers of the other four layers. Stack them on a platter, spreading frosting between each, and fill the centers with 1 cup blue or pink assorted sprinkles. Top with the final whole layer, frost the outside, and decorate with ½ cup mix of blue and pink sprinkles. For more frosting ideas, visit this cream cheese frosting guide to perfect your skills.