Rainbow Cake
Indulge in the whimsical delight of rainbow cake, a show-stopping dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. This multi-layered treat, bursting with colors and flavors, is perfect for birthdays, parties, or any festive occasion. With its rich buttercream frosting and eye-catching layers, this cake will surely be the centerpiece of any celebration. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
- 4 cups buttercream frosting
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 12 servings. Preparation time is around 30 minutes, with a cooking time of 25-30 minutes for each layer.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 350 calories, 18g fat, 45g carbohydrates, and 4g protein. This nutritional information is based on a single slice of cake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease six 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk.
- Divide the batter into six bowls and tint each with different food coloring.
- Pour each color into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
- Layer the cakes with buttercream frosting in between each colored layer and cover the entire cake with frosting.
Alternative Ingredients
You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the cake. Additionally, dairy-free butter and milk can substitute regular butter and milk for a dairy-free option. Natural fruit purees can also be used for coloring, providing a healthier alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Rainbow cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream can enhance the experience. For a themed party, serve it alongside colorful fruit punch or sparkling lemonade.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. This cake can also be frozen for up to 3 months; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the baking powder; it’s essential for rise.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Overmixing can lead to a dense cake; mix until just combined.
- Use a toothpick to check doneness; if it comes out clean, it’s done.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
Helpful Tips
- Use gel food coloring for vibrant hues.
- Level your cakes using a serrated knife for even stacking.
- Chill the cake layers for easier frosting application.
- Add sprinkles on top for a festive touch.
FAQs
Can I make a mini rainbow cake?
Absolutely! Simply scale down the ingredients and use smaller pans. The baking time may be shorter, so keep an eye on them.
How do I prevent the colors from bleeding?
Allow each layer to cool completely before frosting. Use a thick layer of frosting to separate the colors.
Can I use different flavors for each layer?
Yes, you can experiment with flavors like lemon, vanilla, or chocolate for each layer to create a unique taste.
What type of frosting works best?
Buttercream frosting is ideal for rainbow cakes, as it holds up well and complements the sweetness of the cake.
Is rainbow cake suitable for all occasions?
Yes! It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, and even casual gatherings. Its vibrant colors make it a fun choice.
Conclusion
Rainbow cake is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. With its bright layers and delicious flavors, it’s bound to be a hit at any celebration. So grab your ingredients and let your creativity shine with this colorful masterpiece!

Rainbow Cake
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- Food coloring red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple
- 4 cups buttercream frosting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease six 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk.
- Divide the batter into six bowls and tint each with different food coloring.
- Pour each color into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
- Layer the cakes with buttercream frosting in between each colored layer and cover the entire cake with frosting.