Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, combine cake mix, water, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until smooth and lump-free. Divide batter into two bowls if coloring layers. Add a few drops of pink gel to one, blue to the other, mixing until pastel shades form.

3. 3

   Pour batter into prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

4. 4

   Beat softened butter until creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream, until smooth. Mix in vanilla, salt, and cotton candy syrup until the frosting is fluffy and lightly colored.

5. 5

   Level cakes if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of cotton candy buttercream. Top with the second layer and frost the sides and top evenly. For a whimsical finish, use a spatula to create soft swirls.