Get ready to take your baking game to the next level with these 20 colorful Skittle cake recipes! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to add some fun to your day, these sweet treats are sure to impress. From classic vanilla and chocolate cakes to creative concoctions like Skittle-Filled Funfetti Cake and Layered Skittle Surprise Cake, we’ve got the perfect recipe for every occasion.
In this article, we’ll be sharing a variety of unique and delicious Skittle cake recipes that are perfect for anyone who loves baking or just wants to add some color and fun to their dessert game. From simple vanilla cakes to show-stopping layer cakes, these recipes are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
So what are you waiting for? Dive in and start baking with these amazing Skittle cake recipes!
Rainbow Skittle Drip Cake
Create a show-stopping dessert with this vibrant and flavorful Rainbow Skittle Drip Cake recipe. Layers of moist vanilla cake, topped with a rainbow-hued glaze made from Skittles candies, will be the star of your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 bag (approximately 1.5 cups) Skittles candies, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and milk.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before drizzling with Skittle glaze (see below).
Skittle Glaze:
– Melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter in microwave-safe bowl.
– Add crushed Skittles and stir until candies are fully incorporated.
– Pour glaze over cooled cake layers, allowing each layer to set before adding the next.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Skittle-Filled Funfetti Cake
Celebrate with a burst of colorful fun! This Skittle-filled funfetti cake is the perfect treat for birthday parties, potlucks, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup Skittles candies
– Funfetti sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in Skittles candies.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Layered Skittle Surprise Cake
Get ready to impress your friends with this vibrant and delicious cake, packed with colorful Skittles!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup crushed Skittles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Fold in crushed Skittles.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 60-75 minutes
Skittle-Infused Vanilla Sponge Cake
Elevate your baking game with this unique Skittle-infused vanilla sponge cake recipe, perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat. The Skittles add a burst of fruity flavor to the classic sponge cake.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup crushed Skittles (any color or combination)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Fold in crushed Skittles.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cakes cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Skittle Explosion Cake
A decadent treat that combines rich chocolate cake with a burst of fruity Skittles candy, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup Skittles candies, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped Skittles candies.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Skittle Buttercream Layer Cake
A vibrant and playful dessert perfect for birthday celebrations or potlucks. This cake is a showstopper, with layers of moist vanilla cake and creamy Skittles-infused buttercream.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup Skittles candies, crushed
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for buttercream)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely. Crush Skittles candies in a blender or food processor.
7. For buttercream, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add crushed Skittles and mix until combined.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Skittle Pinata Cake with Candy Filling
Celebrate a birthday or special occasion with this vibrant and playful cake that bursts with Skittles-filled surprise.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup Skittles candies (divided)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in 1/2 cup Skittles candies.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool completely before filling with remaining Skittles candies.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Skittle Confetti Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Celebrate any occasion with this vibrant Skittle Confetti Cake, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. This playful dessert is perfect for kids’ parties, birthday celebrations, or just because!
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup Skittles candies
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Fold in Skittles candies.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting (mix softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract; add powdered sugar and mix until smooth).
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Skittle Rainbow Swirl Pound Cake
A vibrant twist on a classic pound cake, this recipe incorporates Skittles candies to create a colorful and sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 cup Skittles candies, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by baking powder and vanilla extract.
4. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add flour and milk, alternating between the two.
5. Fold in crushed Skittles candies.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Skittle-Stuffed Chocolate Fudge Cake
Add a pop of fun to your dessert game with this playful cake that combines rich chocolate fudge and tangy Skittles. This moist and decadent treat is perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup Skittles, crushed
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in crushed Skittles and chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Skittle and Marshmallow Dream Cake
This moist and fluffy cake is infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of Skittles and topped with a layer of toasted marshmallows. It’s a perfect treat for anyone who loves a mix of sweet and fruity flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup Skittles, crushed
– 1 cup marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and milk.
4. Add the crushed Skittles and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before topping with toasted marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Skittle-Topped Lemon Drizzle Cake
Brighten up your day with this sweet and tangy lemon cake, topped with a burst of citrusy Skittles!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup Skittles (any color)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 6-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, lemon juice, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely on wire racks.
Lemon Drizzle:
1. Whisk together 2 tablespoons lemon juice and 1 tablespoon powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled cake layers.
Assembly:
1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or stand.
2. Top with Skittles, using about 1/4 cup per cake.
3. Repeat with second cake layer and drizzle with lemon glaze.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Enjoy your Skittle-Topped Lemon Drizzle Cake!
Skittle Caramel Drip Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Skittle Caramel Drip Cake, featuring a moist vanilla cake soaked in a vibrant Skittle-flavored syrup and topped with a rich caramel drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup Skittle-flavored simple syrup (see below)
– Caramel drizzle (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients, then add butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cake to cool completely before soaking with Skittle-flavored simple syrup.
5. Drizzle caramel over the top of the cake and serve.
Skittle Flavored Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup Skittles, crushed
Combine sugar, water, and crushed Skittles in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain syrup before using.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Skittle-Studded Red Velvet Cake
This show-stopping cake combines the classic flavors of red velvet with a fun twist – crunchy Skittles for added texture and flavor. Perfect for birthday parties or special occasions, this recipe is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed Skittles
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add red food coloring and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
6. Stir in crushed Skittles.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes (including cooling time)
Skittle and White Chocolate Ganache Cake
This moist vanilla cake is infused with the sweet and fruity flavors of Skittles, topped with a rich white chocolate ganache and crunchy candy pieces. A unique dessert perfect for anyone who loves a little sugar rush.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup crushed Skittles candies
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and crushed Skittles candies.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before topping with white chocolate ganache.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Skittle-Filled Birthday Cake with Sprinkles
Make a statement on any birthday celebration with this vibrant Skittle-Filled Birthday Cake with Sprinkles. The perfect treat for kids and kids-at-heart, this cake is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup Skittles candies
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Sprinkles, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in Skittles candies.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting and decorating with sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Skittle and Coconut Layered Cake
A sweet and tangy masterpiece that combines the classic flavors of Skittles with the tropical taste of coconut, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup Skittles, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and crushed Skittles.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool before assembling and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Skittle-Infused Angel Food Cake
Combine the classic charm of angel food cake with the sweet and tangy flavor of Skittles for a unique dessert experience. This recipe is perfect for those who love experimenting with bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup Skittles candies, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sift flour over a piece of parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add egg whites one at a time, whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in crushed Skittles and sifted flour until just combined.
5. Pour batter into an ungreased angel food cake pan.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cake springs back when touched.
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Skittle and Oreo Crunch Cake
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this sweet and playful dessert that combines the classic flavors of Skittles and Oreos!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed Oreos
– 1 cup Skittles, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and softened butter until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Fold in crushed Oreos and Skittles.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Skittle-Topped Strawberry Shortcake
This recipe adds a fun twist to the classic strawberry shortcake by topping it with colorful Skittles for a sweet and tangy surprise. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this delightful dessert in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6-8 shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup Skittles (assorted colors)
Instructions:
1. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juice and mingle with the sugar.
3. Split the shortcake biscuits in half horizontally.
4. Spoon some of the sweetened strawberry mixture onto each biscuit half.
5. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of Skittles for added fun!
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet surprise!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Summary
Get ready to make a splash with these vibrant Skittle cake recipes! From Rainbow Skittle Drip Cakes to Chocolate Skittle Explosion Cakes, there’s something for every occasion. Layered surprise cakes, funfetti-filled treats, and even Skittle-infused sponges are just a few of the creative ideas presented. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want to add some color to your day, these 20 recipes are sure to bring a smile. So go ahead, get creative, and let the rainbow-colored fun begin!