My daughter graduated from Texas Tech last Friday and we celebrated with a few friends and family! Black chocolate cake bottom layer, red velvet top layer with cheesecake frosting in the middle and cheesecake and chocolate frosting on top.

On a recipe for a copycat version of Red Lobster cheddar bay biscuits…

9 inch turtle cheesecake 6 inch red velvet cheesecake cake hybrid 4 inch strawberry swirl.

I'm using Tasty's Classic Red Velvet Cake recipe, which I've linked. I've made this twice before with satisfactory results. This time, however, I forgot the coffee (1/4 cup) and the vanilla (a tablespoon). The cakes went into the oven like ten minutes ago.
The batter tastes good so I have no doubt the cakes will be fine, but can I mix these and use them as a soak after the cake comes out of the oven? I'm a bit worried it will taste of coffee if I do that, though, and I don't like the taste of coffee.

THE BEGINNING: The Corcel is a medium-sized automobile produced by Ford in Brazil, from 1968 to 1986. Willys Overland do Brasil in a partnership with Renault were involved in a project for a new passenger car, a project that became known at the time as "Project M" which years later, in France became the Renault 12 and in Brazil gave rise to the Ford Corcel, due to the purchase of Willys Overland do Brasil by Ford in 1967, with this, all Willys do Brasil projects and vehicles are now controlled by Ford. "Project M" "Project M", now managed by Ford, is now called Ford Corcel and thanks to Ford, the vehicle project undergoes a series of improvements to adapt to the terrible driving conditions in Brazil.
MY SOURCE: https://youtube.com/@reliquiaautomotiva?si=YYP8QXAkG2-537Z0
THE ENGINES AND OTHER THINGS:
·1.3 RENAULT ENGINE (1968): Under the hood, the Corcel was equipped with a 1300 cc four-cylinder Renault engine. This engine developed 68 hp and 9.8 kg/m or 6.58 lb/ft of torque. This power, combined with the weight of 945 kg or 2083 pounds, allowed the car to go from 0 - 100 km/h or 0 - 62 mph in 23 seconds and reach a top speed of 129 km/h or 80.15 mph. One thing that was highly praised about the car was its consumption, averaging 10 km/l or 23.5 mpg in the city and 13.4 km/l or 31.5 mpg on the highway. The Ford Corcel had good safety by Brazilian standards at that time, the car had things like the split steering column, allowing it to deform and not hurt the driver too much in a crash, the hood opening forward, making that, even if the driver leaves it open, the force of the wind will not allow it to open and block the driver's view, the brakes, which were already efficient, could be improved with the optional disc brakes instead of drums, the Corcel also came with a sealed cooling circuit, being the first Brazilian car to feature this feature.
·IMPROVED 1.3 RENAULT ENGINE (1969 - 1971 CORCEL GT): Under the hood, the 1969 Corcel GT's engine was still the same 1.3 from Renault, but certain improvements to the package increased power to 80 hp and torque to 10 kg/m or 6.71 lb/ft. With this power, the Corcel GT did 0 - 100 km/h or 0 - 62 mph in 20 seconds and reached a top speed of 138 km/h or 85.7 mph.
·1.4 RENAULT GT-XP ENGINE (1972 CORCEL GT-XP): The engine, still of Renault origin, now has 1400 cc and has several improvements that made it develop 85 hp and 11.6 kg/m or 7.79 lb/ft of torque. This made the Corcel GT-XP go from 0 - 100 km/h or 0 - 62 mph in 16.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 144 km/h or 89.4 mph.
·1.4 RENAULT ENGINE (1973 CORCEL): Another new feature was the 1.4 engine with 75 hp and 11.6 kg/m or 7.79 lb/ft, which became standard for all versions.
·MODIFIED 1.4 RENAULT ENGINE (1978 CORCEL II): The Corcel II was equipped with the same 1.4 Renault engine as the first generation Corcel, but with power reduced to 72 hp. With these modifications, the new Corcel II accelerated from 0 - 100 km/h or 0 - 62 mph in 17.2 seconds and reached a top speed of 150 km/h or 93.2 mph. The Corcel II averaged 8.5 km/l or 19.9 mpg in the city and up to 13 km/l or 30.5 mpg on the highway.
·1.6 ENGINE AND 5-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION (CORCEL II GT 1979): The 1.6 engine and 5-speed manual transmission become standard in this version. This engine developed 90 hp and 13 kg/m or 8.73 lb/ft of torque. This engine combined with the new 5-speed gearbox made the Corcel II GT accelerate from 0 - 100 km/s or 0 - 62 mph in 15.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 151 km/h or 93.8 mph.
DESIGN / FACELIFTS / NEW GENERATIONS;
·FIRST DESIGN (1968): The Ford Corcel stood out on its debut for presenting a beautiful appearance, made up of straight lines, with emphasis on its front, which was marked by creases on the hood and by the chrome grille with horizontal friezes, highlighting the raised central part so that could follow the creases of the hood, the circular headlights were accompanied by the driving lights located at the bottom of the grille. Below the assembly was the chrome bumper with the space for the license plate in the center. On its side, the look is marked by the charm of the four-door sedan body and the crease that runs along the entire side of the car, the 13-inch wheels were accompanied by chrome hubcaps. At the rear, the highlight is the rectangular-shaped taillights and the chrome bumper. Another highly praised detail of its design was the large glass area, which favored visibility in all directions.
·FIRST FACELIFT (1971): In 1971, the Corcel received its first restyling, with a new grille with horizontal and vertical friezes and a new emblem in the center, the driving lights are now located below the bumper, and at the rear the only new feature is the four square-shaped taillights, two on each side.
SECOND FACELIFT (1973): In 1973, the Corcel underwent a new facelift, this time much deeper and concentrated mainly on the front of the car, it gained a new hood, with a more aerodynamic design, in addition to a new grille with vertical friezes, a new emblem in the center and new headlight frames, the license plate left the bumper and began to be positioned below it, while the driving lights gained a new design, at the rear the lanterns gained a new design, having a rectangular shape and having reverse lights integrated with them. Inside the car, the only new feature is the dashboard which, regardless of the version, was only offered in a matte black colour.
·THIRD FACELIFT (1975): For the year 1975, the Corcel received a new facelift, with a lower hood that had the logo at the center and the Ford name on the right, a new grille, now made of plastic with horizontal stripes, new hubcaps, split tail lights and an gauge cluster with square dials.
·THE NEW GENERATION FORD CORCEL II (1977): The new second generation Corcel arrived with a beautiful look that followed the trend of the time, made up of straight lines and a two-door body with a fastback style rear, in addition, it is also worth highlighting the new look of its front, made up of headlights rectangular and new driving lights located at the ends next to the headlights, in the center the new engine cooling grille was painted in black and had the Ford logo in the center, but the main highlight of this new grille came from the aerodynamic design. of its horizontal blades, which provided a more intense air flow even at lower speeds, while the bumper, depending on the version, could be painted black or chrome. This new generation lost the option of a four-door body due to the fact that at that time, Brazilians only preferred cars with two doors, but to facilitate access when getting in or out of the vehicle, the most efficient solution was to adopt huge doors, which helped even the rear seat occupants. The main highlight at the rear of this sedan is the smooth fit of the C column, which went all the way to the trunk lid, while the license plate came out of the bumper and is positioned between the rear lights, which have a cleaner, more rectangular design. Inside, the new Corcel was more luxurious and sophisticated, featuring a fully carpeted interior and reclining front seats. The new panel was marked by a beautiful look that followed the trend of the time. Made entirely of plastic and with details such as a radio in the center and two rectangular ventilation outlets at the ends. The instrument panel had information in three circular markers, the first with a speedometer, the second, in the center, with an analog clock and the third with a fuel level marker and warning lights.
·1979 TWEAKS: In 1979 the car was slightly modified, gaining new transparent front lights and new rear lights with a beaded design in addition to a new four-spoke steering wheel for the LDO version. In addition to new options such as 5-speed gearbox, headlight washers and a new 1.6 engine.
·1980 TWEAKS: In 1980, the Ford Corcel II received new bumpers with plastic tips, a coolant temperature marker and options such as radial tires, three-point seat belts and a smoked sunroof, while the GT version gets a red trim next to the black paintwork.
1982: In 1982, the Corcel II line received improvements to the gearbox and suspension, in addition to a new central console with digital clock and air conditioning, which was only offered as an option.
1984: In 1984 the Ford Corcel II received new headrests and a new two-spoke steering wheel.
VARIANTS;
·CORCEL TWO DOOR COUPE (1969): The Corcel began to be a great success, and because of this Ford decided to expand the options in 1969, and the first of them was the two-door coupé version, standing out for its sportier look, thanks to the look of the rear side with lines reminiscent of muscle cars and the rear part of the roof that had a smooth slope to the height of the trunk. Another reason why this version was highly acclaimed was the fact that at that time Brazilians had a great preference for cars with just two doors.
TRIM LEVELS;
·CORCEL STANDARD: Initially the Ford Corcel was only available in the most basic version, called Standard. It had a simple but well-finished interior, with emphasis on the internal space, enough to seat 5 people in relative comfort, thanks to the one-piece seats and good wheelbase. The dashboard also had a simple design, with a glove box, ashtray and radio. The gauge cluster only had the essentials for the time, that is: fuel level gauge, speedometer, engine temperature gauge and warning lights. The huge steering wheel has two spokes, and the transmission was a four-speed manual with a lever on the floor.
·CORCEL LUXO (1969): In 1969 the luxury version of the Corcel was released. It had a more sophisticated finish, with details such as trims, various chrome parts, new interior linings, individual front seats with reclining backrests and a panel with new details such as a padded upper part and applications that imitate rosewood.
·CORCEL GT (1969): Launched in 1969 and aimed at a younger audience, the Corcel GT was only available in a two-door coupe version. It had details such as a vinyl roof with the GT logo on the C-pillar, stripes on the sides, black paint on the hood and rear, fog lights, and claws with a rubberized finish on the bumpers. Inside, the GT version featured a new three-spoke sports steering wheel, forced ventilation with two speeds and a complete gauge cluster with: speedometer, rev counter, oil level gauge, fuel level gauge, engine temperature gauge and a voltmeter for the battery.
·CORCEL GT (1971 FACELIFT): The GT version also received a facelift to accompany the others, with high beam headlights embedded in the grille, the grille was even painted in black and had the GT emblem in the center, the hood was also painted matte black and had a fake air vent in the center.
·CORCEL GT-XP (1972): In 1972, the Corcel GT gained a new name and more improvements, such as new wheels with a sporty design, new side stripes, while the markers, previously located in the central part of the panel, were now grouped together on the new central console.
·CORCEL GT-XP (1973): The Corcel GT-XP brought new visual features such as new rectangular headlights integrated into the grille, new side stripes, and two stripes on the hood, similar to those of the Ford Mustang.
·CORCEL LDO (1975): In 1975 was the even more luxurious version called LDO and stood out for presenting a more sophisticated finish, with a vinyl roof, chrome trim on the wheel arches, painted filets on the sides and the same sports wheels as the GT-XP version but without the black paintwork. Inside, it gained new interior linings, dashboard and seats in brown and beige and an exclusive steering wheel.
·CORCEL GT-XP (1975): The Corcel GT-XP only received aesthetic updates, such as new stripes on the sides and hood and new exterior mirrors.
·CORCEL II STANDARD (1978): This version of the Corcel II came without side moldings, had bumpers painted black and came with wheels that had a closed central core.
·CORCEL II L (1978): The intermediate version featured moldings in the middle of the side, chrome bumpers, wheels with a red central core or a crown design in the center.
·CORCEL II LDO (1978): The luxurious LDO version was equipped with chrome bumpers that had rubberized details, moldings at the bottom of the side and new wheels also with a red central core and a silver crown design in the center. The LDO version brought the charm of a monochromatic leather interior with applications that imitated rosewood.
·CORCEL II GT (1978): The new Corcel II GT had a look marked by black paint on the upper part of the body up to the C column, which was surrounded by fillets in yellow and red, black wheels with chrome over rims and high-flying headlights located below the bumper. Inside, the new features are the new three-spoke sports steering wheel, the rev counter on the instrument panel, and the new instrumentation on the central console, which included the oil level marker and the battery voltmeter. The engine was not changed, continuing with the same 72 hp as the other versions.
·CORCEL II GT (1979): This year the GT version undergoes improvements, such as new black stripes located on the lower part of the body, stiffer suspension and black bumpers.
·CORCEL II HOBBY (1980): It was in 1980 that the new version, called Corcel II Hobby, was launched. Aimed at a younger audience, the Hobby version stood out for its cooler look, marked by the bodywork without chrome details and the black wheels with chrome rims. Inside, this version featured red and black trim, the sports steering wheel of the GT version and an instrument panel with a silver finish.
·CORCEL II OS CAMPEÕES SPECIAL SERIES (1982): This special series featured details such as black paint with gold details, gold wheels, fog lights, black leather and black velvet interior, instrument panel with rev counter, digital clock on the center console, five-speed gearbox and options such as a sunroof, radio cassette player and air conditioning.
THE FORD DEL REY: The Del Rey was a Ford luxury sedan launched in the early 1980s and discontinued ten years later, having been replaced by the Versailles. It is a medium sedan, with three well-defined volumes, a choice of two or four doors and robust engines. The model was derived from the Corcel and in its line there was also the station wagon version, called Del Rey Scala and the Pampa pickup truck.
·BEFORE LAUNCH: Ford had a big problem to face in the late 1970s. With the new decade, Ford began to remodel its cars with modern designs coming from North America so as not to lose sales to more modern models. As the market was in crisis, it was not possible to invest well in a new model, an option taken in the 1970s when they brought the Ford Maverick to the American market, an option revealed to be wrong later, as the initial project was to bring the Ford Taunus. The solution was to call for the creation of a new model, but with an existing platform on the national market. The options were to create a car based on the four-door Maverick, increasing its rear space, which was the model's biggest problem, or to create a product based on the Corcel II platform, launched two years earlier.
In a clinic, two models were displayed to test consumer opinion, and the one chosen was the one that resembled the final design of the Ford Del Rey. A medium sedan, with three well-defined volumes, the option of two or four doors and an economical engine. , being the alternative to avoid higher costs. The model was based on the Ford Granada MKII models, a large model from English Ford manufactured at the same time, and the Ford Taunus, also from European Ford, but from Germany. They were very similar both front and rear, as well as the side, despite the Brazilian model being smaller.
·FIRST GENERATION (1981 - 1984): The Ford Del Rey debuted in mid-1981 and could be found in Gold and basic versions (popularly called "Silver"). It was a car with a refined finish, reminiscent of its older brother, the Ford Corcel under construction, but at the same time reminiscent of the good old Galaxie/Landau. The most complete version came as standard with items that were not common even in cars of its category, such as light alloy wheels, electric windows, electric door locks, rear view mirrors with internal control, velvet seats, fog lights, digital clock located on the central rear view mirror, among other things. The model received an automatic transmission as an option in 1983, and in 1984 it received the CHT engine, a revision of the old 1.6 engine of Renault origin that equipped the Corcel GT, and which was revised to equip the recently arrived Ford Escort. The engine did a lot of good for the model which, despite being economical, suffered during accelerations and restarts, and was the target of criticism from its owners, always losing in comparisons with the main competitors of its time, such as Chevrolet Opala, Volkswagen Santana and after 1985 , the Chevrolet Monza.
SECOND GENERATION (1985 - 1991): In 1985 Ford made some changes to the model, which would remain practically intact until the end of its life in mid-1991. The already tired sedan gained a new front, similar to that of the Ford Corcel, with a “grille” aerodynamics and a spoiler that served as a frame for the fog lights. The model began to have other names. The Silver and Gold were discontinued and the GL entered as a basic version, GLX as an intermediate and the Ghia as a top-of-the-line version. It lost the refinement of alloy wheels, but gained new items. The rim increased to 14 inches and was the first non-sports car in Brazil to use a 60 profile. The 1987 model featured electric rear-view mirrors. With the Ford Corcel leaving the line the previous year, Ford created the L version, with a more stripped-down finish, to fill the gap between the Escort and the Del Rey. In 1988 the model had no relevant changes.
With the merger of Volkswagen and Ford in 1987, Autolatina was created, a large company that came to dominate the market and almost cannibalized Ford of Brazil. The Del Rey was one of the few models that profited from this merger, as it gained the more modern AP 1.8 engine (which was equipped with the Volkswagen Santana). With a small performance gain, its top speed rose from 146 km/h to around 156 km/h, and its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h went from 16.50 in the 1986 GLX version to around 13.88 seconds, due to the new gear reduction and small increase in power. The Del Rey received some mechanical changes, recalibrated springs at the rear to improve the “anti-dive” effect when accelerating and “anti-squat” when braking. The exterior mirror received a modified base in 1989. The last really notable difference between the models with the 1.6 and 1.8 engines was the consumption, which had increased slightly.
In 1991 the Del Rey was taken out of production. It is a model well remembered for the modernity it had in its time, as its bigger brother (Ford Landau) did not have many modern features (such as electric windows, electric locks and electric mirrors). Its replacement, the Ford Versailles, was not as successful due to its lack of charisma.
THE FORD BELINA: During the development of the M project (later named Corcel) in partnership with Renault, Willys-Overland do Brasil was studying the project of a station wagon/van to occupy the market niche left by the end of DKW-Vemag Vemaguet in 1967 At the same Volkswagen do Brasil was working on a similar project for a while, the Variant station wagon. After the purchase of Willys do Brasil by Ford, the M project continued to be developed. On August 26, 1968, the M project was presented at Clube Pinheiros in São Paulo during the Ford-Willys dealer convention. Named Corcel, the new vehicle was being launched on the market to compete with the VW Beetle. At the same event, Ford presented the prototype of a Corcel station wagon in September 1968. The first prototype of the Corcel station wagon was seen circulating around the factory in São Bernardo do Campo undergoing tests.
Ford even transported a prototype station wagon to its stand at the VI São Paulo Motor Show, with its management undecided about showing the model. In the end, the station wagon ended up not being shown. Instead of launching, Ford chose to carry out further tests of two models: two and four doors (never adopted for series production). The tests were carried out throughout 1969 on Estrada Velha de Santos.
The Ford Belina was launched on the market on March 3, 1970, approximately three months after the Volkswagen Variant.[6] After the launch of Variant and Belina, VW and Ford began an “advertising war” in the station wagon market, with each factory praising its product and criticizing its competitor. In the end, the German automaker prevailed with the argument of the simple and robust mechanics of the air engine (the same as the Volkswagen Beetle). Thus, the Variant's production was around six times greater than that of the Belina.
In one of the first tests carried out by the press, unusual wear was noticed on the Belina's front tires. An error was later discovered in the adjustment of the front suspension of the Corcel-Belina line, which forced Ford to call on all owners of Corcel-Belina line vehicles manufactured between 1969 and 1970 to come to Ford dealerships to have the suspension readjusted. Despite not requiring replacement of parts, this was considered the first recall in Brazil.
The bad reputation brought about by the problem affected Belina production, which went from 7831 (1970) to 5306 (1971) vehicles. The drop in production forced Ford to invest in the relaunch of the Corcel-Belina line in 1972. The main change for the Belina was the adoption of the 75 HP XP engine, replacing the original 68 HP. The production of mixed-use trucks (including station wagons) was encouraged by market acceptance. Between the first quarter of 1973 and 1975 there was a 26% growth in the production of mixed-use trucks (including station wagons) while car production in the country fell 3.9%.
In 1973 production reached almost thirteen thousand copies. The Belina went through a period of growth in production that did not change even with the launch of the Chevrolet Caravan on the market in 1975. Derived from the Opala, the Caravan station wagon began to compete with the Belina for the market. Thus, Ford adopted a second restyling of the Belina in 1975, with changes to the front and improvements in the design and the adoption of a gas shock absorber to support the trunk lid instead of the obsolete spring shock absorber it used. The arrival of the Caravan and the launch of the remodeled Belina put pressure on the Variant, which began to lose market share until it was discontinued in 1977. At the same time, the Belina project, derived from the Corcel, was feeling the weight of age (given that it was from the 1960) and needed replacement.
THE BELINA II: With the launch of the Chevrolet Chevette in Brazil (and the expectation of a future derivative station wagon launch), the announcement of FIAT's arrival in Brazil and the announcement of the launch of the Dodge 1800, Ford began studying changes to the Corcel line. Inherited from the acquisition of Willys-Overland do Brasil, the Corcel was a Renault project from the 1960s ready when it was taken over by Ford. At the end of 1973, the American multinational carried out the first restyling study of the Corcel. Belina, however, was not initially included because its competition was limited to the Variant. This later changed with the arrival of the Chevrolet Caravan and rumors of the production of a Dodge station wagon (which ended up not being released) and the Chevette station wagon. The redesigned Belina first appeared in print in October 1976.
In 1978, the Belina received a modern update, when it was renamed Belina II, incorporating the main changes of the Corcel II, with straight lines. The versions were the L, simpler, and luxurious LDO.
THE DEL REY SCALA: Derived from the Del Rey, the Scala was launched in 1983, being an evolution of the Belina. Available in a single version: Gold. With a superior finish, it introduced new equipment to the category: electric locks and windows, a ceiling console with a digital clock, reading lights and a panel that even had an oil pressure gauge. Air conditioning was optional. Initially, power steering was not offered, not even as an option. It was equipped with a 1.6 engine with 69 hp. In 1984 it received ventilated disc brakes at the front and its power increased slightly: 73 hp.
In 1985 it received a facelift, with a new front and interior changes. It was now offered in two versions: GLX and Ghia. In 1986 it received power steering and a CHT E-Max engine.
There was also a 4X4 version, launched in 1985 and discontinued in 1987, due to the high incidence of mechanical failures in the system.
In 1987, she was called Belina again. Its production lasted until 1991, when it was discontinued to make way for the Ford Royale. At that time, Belina's sales represented half of the Del Rey family.
FORD PAMPA: The Pampa was based on the second generation of the Corcel and was presented at the 1982 Motor Show, designed to compete with the Fiat Fiorino, Volkswagen Saveiro and Chevy 500.
In the 1984 model, the first changes occurred, receiving the CHT engine, more powerful and economical. The 1600 cm³ CHT engine had 75 HP on alcohol and 73 HP on gasoline, respectively allowing the Pampa to reach a maximum speed of 145 km/h and 140 km/h. The 4x4 model, launched in the same year together with the Belina 4x4, was equipped with a four-speed gearbox, a one-piece seat and also had a second fuel tank in the alcohol version, for an additional 40 liters. Its interior was much more basic than the pioneering 4x2 model.
In 1986, the basic, L and GL models came into existence, and in that same year the entire Pampa line received the front grille of the 4x4 version for the 1987 model. It was similar to the Del Rey, in addition to gaining the Ghia version with luxury items from the Del Rey Ghia model. These include a complete dashboard, windows and electric locks. Despite this, Pampa no longer has air conditioning, only offering hot air as an option.
The Pampa had always been the leader among light pickup trucks until then and continued in this situation until it was discontinued. In 1990 it received the VW AP-1800 engine, powering the L, GL and Ghia versions. The CHT 1.6 still remains in the L and GL 4x4 versions. The following year the S version arrives, much more sporty and complete, only coming with a 1800 cm³ engine and bringing standard items such as external hooks, protective rubbers for the edges of the bucket, day and night rear view mirror, optional power steering, individual adjustable seats , stylized wheels, personalized stripes on the sides, sliding rear window, front spoiler with built-in fog lights and other items found in the Ghia version, such as an electric trio.
In 1992 the Pampa received a new front grille, identical to that of the Del Rey, which production ended in 1991. Two years later it received an electronic carburetor (2E CE) for the 1800 cm³ engines. In 1995, the Ghia and Jeep GL 1.6 4x4 versions were discontinued, leaving only the L (1.6 and 1.8), GL (1.8) and S (1.8).
The Pampa ceased production in 1997, the model year in which the 1.8 engines were equipped with EEC-IV single-point electronic injection, becoming the best-selling automobile-derived pickup in the segment, exceeding 380,000 units sold. Even in the face of competitors with more modern designs such as the recently launched Corsa pick-up, the second generation of the Saveiro, the third generation of the Fiorino pick-up, and the first generation Hilux imported into Brazil, which was initially a small pick-up, and the Mazda B2200, the Pampa has always been a sales leader, extremely popular, robust and attracting a legion of fans across the country, it was succeeded by the Courier, which never had the same sales figures, and it is often possible to see more Pampas on the streets than Couriers .
TRIVIA;
·What is interesting is that although the Renault and Ford models had completely different designs, they shared the same platform, engines and wheels that had three holes and which became famous in Brazil for exactly this reason.
·The name Corcel, means Steed in Portuguese and was chosen as a homage to the Ford Mustang.

Hello there Fellow create users !! Here is my situation: I got waaaay tooo many ores to get smelted. Not the thousands.., not the ten thousands.., I'm talking in the multi-million ores. Currently for copper.., I am sitting on 8.8 million and for iron = 3.5 - 7 million ores(still breaking the raw iron ores - pics below). (...lol...I guess I'm trying to break the world record..lol) I started this world back on 2014/ ver-1.12 on a very small island ( only had 3 trees and was a plains biome surrounded by water. Now it covers over 200 plus chunks and is still growing MC v1.20.1 now). (pics below) I am using a quarry mod to remove the ground all the way until I hit bedrock removing water and lava and the ocean plus raising the land level to y=66. (plus filling in all holes left with stone...I got over a 100 million stone blocks to use) I've also built a multi-level factory with massive storage using pipez mod and storage drawers mod w/ upgrades.) (pics below)
(My mod list so far...)
My Mod list so far....
My reason for this post: I know Create can smelt a stack at a time and with modding the server.config, it can do more than one stack. I've downloaded nearly every version of a smelter schematic I could find on the internet for over the last 8 months and made several of my own as well. The fastest and most amount I can get it to do is 144 stacks at one time per game tick. It still takes f-o-r-e-v-e-r to get through a million ores to get them to turn into ingots.
My ore blockebuster can take over 5 milllion + ore blocks mined from my quarry mod w/ silk touch/fortune(max game level each) and turn them into 10-30 million ores in about 10 minutes using placers using pickaxes with fortune/unbreaking and mending level 255. (Pics below)
I am wanting ideas/schematics with easy to follow instruction/guides on a machine that will do a minimum of 20 stacks at one time deal. My goal is to to do waaay well over 1000 plus stacks at one time per game tick. I know it can be done. I just don't know how to accomplish this yet. The area in the factory I got to put machine is 87Lx15Wx10H blocks. Or worse case.., I can build it outside with unlimited space into a new building and with dimensional transportation into the factory.

Some of the mods/schematics that I've tried:

Here's a link to a smelter schematic that might with a lot of modification by me get to something that could possibly do over 2-400 stacks in a multi-cauldron style - Multi-stack ore smelter - The only issue is when printed by schematics cannon, the the arm and cauldron will not be there so I can't figure out how the arm part is made permanently into a contraption. No contact with the creator of it as of yet.
Mekanism Mod is fairly fast - BUT it only does single items one at a time. Even with the elite smelter in a 8x8 array with all upgrades applied / using ultimate pipez mod to push into and out of - the max output is 144 individual items per 3 seconds. ( My rating = sloow)
Better Furnaces mod using pipez mod and storage drawers mod in a 8x8x40 long array is 960 individual items per minute ( My rating = still too slow)
200 + smelter array - My custom build - waaay tooo slow - the minecarts always hanging up or it forgetting to deliver the fuel/items....

If you or anyone here has any ideas on how to make this happen OR a schematic OR even if you know of a mod that can do multi-stacks at one time.. PLEASE post or reply !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am in desperate need of something asap !!! I don't the patience or irl months to spend smelting. I need to finish the island up and start building the resorts/hotels/villages.
Thanks for reading this......
Signed,
Allen

My Island so far......
My Island so far
My Factory
https://preview.redd.it/c7ahambyqpzc1.png?width=1152&format=png&auto=webp&s=6bc100ab2f0c9b800430930b3e9bb1dbb6118fb3
My Ore block breaker machine...
rht side
Output side
Motor side
My common ore count in storage drawers - I am running a little low atm....
My common ore count in storage drawers - I am running a little low atm....

Merry Chritmas (Gothic Element)

https://preview.redd.it/titibt5u5lzc1.png?width=2912&format=png&auto=webp&s=1c6141921d722830d496ad7865eabb895a15e8ee
Chritmas offers a fascinating blend of gothic and spooky elements with traditional Christmas and Yule traditions, centered around "Chrit Ghost," the gift-giving ghost. Here's an extended concept incorporating these themes:

1. Chrit Ghost:
   • Chrit Ghost is a spectral figure cloaked in midnight black, with glowing eyes with moose skull and a hauntingly kind demeanor.
   • Instead of Santa Claus, Chrit Ghost is the benevolent spirit who visits homes on Chritmas Eve, leaving mysterious gifts under shadowy Chritmas trees.
2. Decorations:
   • Gothic-inspired decorations adorn Chritmas trees, with dark ornaments like miniature coffins, black roses, and silver spiderwebs.
   • Candles flicker in eerie candelabras, casting dim, flickering light reminiscent of old haunted mansions.
   • Wreaths made of dried black roses and thorny branches hang on doors, adding a touch of macabre elegance.
3. Feast of Shadows:
   • The Chritmas feast, known as the Feast of Shadows, features dark delicacies like blood-red velvet cake, roasted black garlic potatoes, and mulled wine with a hint of cloves and cinnamon.
   • Tables are draped in midnight blue and adorned with candelabras, skull-shaped goblets, and tarnished silverware.
4. Chritmas Carols:
   • Carols take on a haunting tone, with lyrics that weave tales of ghosts, witches, and ancient mysteries. Songs like "O Come, All Ye Spirits" and "The Haunted Bells of Chritmas" set the mood.
   • Musicians play eerie melodies on violins, harpsichords, and haunting flutes, adding to the spectral ambiance.
5. Chritmas Eve Rituals:
   • Families gather around a crackling fireplace to tell ghost stories, sharing tales of apparitions, restless spirits, and mysterious happenings.
   • Children leave offerings of dark chocolates and dried fruits for Chrit Ghost, hoping to receive ethereal gifts in return.
6. Gifts from the Otherworld:
   • Chrit Ghost leaves gifts that reflect the gothic and mystical themes of Chritmas, such as antique pocket watches, spellbooks filled with secrets, and enchanted crystals.
   • Handcrafted items like gothic jewelry, leather-bound journals, and ornate masks hold special meaning in this ethereal exchange.
7. Yule Traditions:
   • Yule celebrations intertwine with Chritmas, incorporating ancient pagan customs such as burning Yule logs, decorating with holly and mistletoe, and honoring the rebirth of the sun.
   • The Chritmas tree becomes a symbol of life and renewal, adorned with symbols of nature, magic, and the cycle of seasons.
8. Spirit of Chritmas:
   • Chritmas embraces the beauty of darkness and light, blending gothic aesthetics with the warmth of togetherness, generosity, and the joy of sharing stories and traditions.
   • It's a time to honor the mysteries of the night, the spirits of the past, and the magic that surrounds us in both the seen and unseen realms.

Chritmas, with its Gothic and spooky twist on traditional Chritmas and Yule customs, invites us to embrace the enchanting shadows and mysteries that lie beyond the veil, celebrating the beauty of the unknown and the timeless spirit of giving and connection.

Chritmas Cake (Traditonal Cake)

Creating a Chritmas Cake with a black cranberry theme sounds intriguing! Here's a recipe for a delicious Black Cranberry Cake that combines the rich flavors of dark ingredients with the festive touch of cranberries:
Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup blackberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Prepare the Fruit Mixture:
   • In a separate bowl, place the blackberries and dried cranberries. Pour the boiling water over the berries and let them soak for about 10 minutes. Drain the berries and set aside.
4. Make the Cake Batter:
   • In the bowl of a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, beat the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth batter forms.
   • Fold in the soaked blackberries and cranberries into the batter gently until evenly distributed.
5. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
   • Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Decorate (Optional):
   • Once the cake has cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for a snowy effect, adding a festive touch to your Chritmas cake.

Slice and serve your delicious Black Cranberry Chritmas Cake as a delightful dessert for your Chritmas celebrations. The combination of dark flavors and tangy cranberries is sure to be a hit!

Cobweb Tree Topper (DIY)

A Cobweb Tree Topper for Chritmas adds a spooky and gothic touch to your holiday decor. Here's how you can make one:
Materials Needed:

1. Black or dark-colored wire
2. Black feathers or faux spider webs
3. Small plastic spiders or spider ornaments
4. Hot glue gun and glue sticks
5. Black spray paint (optional)
6. Wire cutters
7. Ribbon or string for hanging (optional)

Instructions:

1. Create the Base:
   • Using the wire, shape a cone or pyramid structure to serve as the base of your cobweb tree topper. You can start with a smaller cone and gradually widen it as you go up.
   • Secure the wire pieces together using hot glue to form a sturdy base.
2. Add the Cobweb Design:
   • Take the black feathers or faux spider webs and drape them over the wire structure. You can create a cobweb-like pattern by crisscrossing the feathers or webs in a random, intricate manner.
   • Secure the feathers or webs in place with hot glue as needed to ensure they stay attached to the wire base.
3. Enhance with Spiders:
   • Attach small plastic spiders or spider ornaments to the cobweb design using hot glue. Place them strategically to create a creepy, crawling effect on the cobweb tree topper.
   • You can also add some larger spiders crawling down the sides of the wire structure for a more dramatic look.
4. Optional Spray Paint:
   • If desired, you can spray paint the entire cobweb tree topper with black paint to give it a darker, more uniform appearance. Allow the paint to dry completely before proceeding.
5. Attach Hanging Mechanism (Optional):
   • If you want to hang the cobweb tree topper from the tree, attach a ribbon or string to the top of the wire structure using hot glue. Make sure it's securely attached and can support the weight of the topper.
6. Place on Top of the Tree:
   • Once your cobweb tree topper is complete and any paint or glue has dried, carefully place it on top of your Chritmas tree. Ensure it's balanced and securely attached to the tree's tip.

Your Cobweb Tree Topper for Chritmas is now ready to add a touch of gothic elegance and spooky charm to your holiday decorations. It's sure to stand out and create a unique focal point for your Chritmas festivities.

It was my first attempt at a layered cake and it didn’t go so well as you can see. The frosting was still really soft after I chilled it in the fridge for about 20 minutes, and the top later just slid off 💀. I reassembled it and attempted to frost the outer layer but it was still really soft and wouldn’t stand. Theres more frosting left I haven’t used not in the pic.
I live in a warm climate so im thinking that has something to do with it? I’m appreciating any advice from anyone on how to not have my cakes collapse and how to ice it well. Thank you!
For reference I used this recipe by PreppyKitchen:
https://preppykitchen.com/best-red-velvet-cake/