1 pkg. your favorite cake mix (any flavor)
1 tub your choice frosting (I use vanilla)
1 (12 oz.) pkg. M&M'S® candies
1 (12 oz.) pkg. malted "Robin" Easter Eggs (or colored Easter eggs)

Prepare cake mix according to package directions in 2 (8 or 9-inch) round layers. Cool completely.

Using 1 layer, cut a circle in the center of cake, leaving a ring measuring 1 1/2 inches from the edge to the center. Remove the center.

FROSTING:

Place the uncut cake layer on plate. Frost the top with frosting. Place the ring from the other layer on the frosted layer and the top of the cake.

GRASS:

2 drops green food coloring
1/2 tsp. water
2 cups flaked coconut

Mix food coloring water in a medium bowl. Add coconut and mix with a fork until the coconut is uniformly colored.

Decorate, using M&M'S®. Decorate the basket side and top. Place coconut grass in the center of the basket. Fill the basket with malted Easter eggs, colored eggs or candy.

BASKET HANDLE:

Fold aluminum foil (16 x 8-inches) half lengthwise and continue folding in half lengthwise 3 more times. The final size is 16 x 1/2-inch. Wrap with ribbon, securing ends with tape. Insert ends into cake, bending to form a handle with a bow.

Submitted by: Frances Graves