Celebrating International Chess Day with a Chess-Themed Cake

International Chess Day, celebrated on the 20th of July, offers a fantastic opportunity to honour the timeless game of strategy and intellect. 

What better way to celebrate than by creating a chess-themed cake? This cake, inspired by the elegance of the chessboard, will delight both chess enthusiasts and dessert lovers. 

Here's a step-by-step guide to crafting a stunning chess-themed cake that combines artistry and deliciousness.

Ingredients and Tools

For the Cake:

450g plain flour

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

225g unsalted butter, softened

450g granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

375ml whole milk

For the Frosting:

250g unsalted butter, softened

500g icing sugar, sifted

2 tsp vanilla extract

2-3 tbsp whole milk

Black gel food colouring

White fondant icing

Additional Supplies:

Chess piece moulds (for chocolate or fondant pieces)

20cm square cake tin

Parchment paper

Piping bags and nozzles

Offset spatula

Rolling pin

Instructions

Step 1: Baking the Cake

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan, Gas Mark 4). Grease and line a 20cm square cake tin with parchment paper.

Prepare the Batter: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and bicarbonate of soda. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, until well combined.

Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Preparing the Frosting

Make the Buttercream: In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the icing sugar, beating until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract and enough milk to achieve a spreadable consistency.

Colour the Frosting: Divide the buttercream into two equal parts. Leave one part white and add black gel food colouring to the other, mixing until you achieve a deep black hue.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake

Level the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, level the top with a serrated knife if necessary.

Create the Chessboard Pattern: Roll out the white fondant icing to about 3mm thickness. Cut it into small squares, approximately 2.5cm each. Repeat the process with the black buttercream by piping it onto parchment paper and freezing it briefly, then cutting it into squares.

Arrange the Squares: Using a small amount of buttercream as glue, arrange the black and white squares in an alternating pattern on the top of the cake to mimic a chessboard.

Step 4: Adding the Chess Pieces

Mould the Pieces: Use the chess piece moulds to create chocolate or fondant chess pieces. If using chocolate, melt it and pour into the moulds, then chill until set. For fondant, simply press it into the moulds and carefully remove.

Decorate the Cake: Place the chess pieces on the cake in a strategic arrangement, as if mid-game, to add an authentic touch.

Step 5: Final Touches

Piping and Borders: Use any remaining buttercream to pipe a decorative border around the base and top edge of the cake. This not only enhances the look but also helps to keep the fondant squares in place.

Presentation: Place your completed chess-themed cake on a cake stand or board. Consider adding small, edible embellishments like glitter or gold dust for an extra touch of elegance.

Crafting a chess-themed cake is a delightful way to celebrate International Chess Day. This cake, with its intricate design and delicious flavours, is sure to impress both chess aficionados and those with a sweet tooth. Whether you're hosting a chess match or simply enjoying a slice with friends and family, this cake will be the centrepiece of your celebration. Happy International Chess Day!