Ingredients
1 package butter recipe golden cake mix (regular size)1 cup orange juice1/3 cup butter, softened3 large eggsFROSTING:6 cups confectioners’ sugar2/3 cup butter, softenedOrange food coloring, optional5 to 6 tablespoons orange juice1/2 cup crushed chocolate wafers (about 8 wafers)1 cup semisweet chocolate chips1 tablespoon shorteningAssorted candy and chocolate leaves
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°. Line bottoms of two greased 9-in. round baking pans with parchment paper; grease paper. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, orange juice, butter and eggs; beat on low speed 30 seconds. Beat on medium 2 minutes. Transfer to prepared pan. Bake 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 minutes before removing to wire racks; remove paper. Cool completely.
For frosting, in a large bowl, beat confectioners’ sugar, butter, if desired, food coloring and enough orange juice to achieve desired consistency. Spread frosting between layers and over top and sides of cake. Lightly press wafer crumbs onto sides of cake.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate and shortening; stir until smooth. Transfer to a pastry bag or a food-safe plastic bag; cut a small hole in the tip of bag. Pipe a tree on top of cake. Decorate as desired with candy and chocolate leaves.
