Dinosaur Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 13 x 9-inch baking pans. Prepare cake mixes according to package directions. Divide mixture evenly between pans. Bake for 30 mins, or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Cool in pans 5 mins. Remove from pans; cool completely on wire rack.
2. 2
   Using a serrated knife, level cake tops so they are the same height. Turn cut-side down. Using picture as a guide, cut dinosaur's body, tail and legs from cakes.
3. 3
   Assemble cake pieces on a 30-inch square cake board, cut-side down.
4. 4
   For the buttercream, beat butter in large bowl with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in half the sifted powdered sugar then milk. Beat in remaining powdered sugar until smooth.
5. 5
   Tint buttercream with green food color. Spread all over cake. Create scales using a small spatula.
6. 6
   Using a sharp knife, cut spearmint leaves in half crosswise. Position on cake for spine.
7. 7
   Position Tic Tacs for teeth and Life Saver for eye. Cut licorice strap into thin strips; position for eyebrow and mouth. Cut claws from remaining licorice strap; position for claws on feet.