Are you ready to add a pop of color and excitement to your baking repertoire? Look no further than our collection of 18 vibrant rainbow layer cake recipes! From classic vanilla buttercream to decadent chocolate ganache, we’ve got a rainbow layer cake recipe to suit every taste and skill level.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the most deliciously colorful cakes that are sure to brighten up any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply want to add some fun to your family dinner, these stunning creations are sure to impress. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!
Classic Rainbow Layer Cake with Vanilla Buttercream
This vibrant cake is a showstopper at any celebration, with layers of moist vanilla sponge cake, swirled with colorful batter to create a stunning rainbow effect. Pair it with creamy vanilla buttercream frosting for the perfect combination.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
– 3 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (235ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue)
For the buttercream:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 3/4 cups (450g) powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Prepare the colored batter by dividing the cake mix among six bowls, adding a few drops of food coloring to each bowl.
3. Layer the batters in the prepared pans, ending with a white layer on top.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with vanilla buttercream.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Tie-Dye Rainbow Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Create a stunning and delicious cake that’s perfect for any celebration or gathering! This Tie-Dye Rainbow Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Divide the batter into six portions and add a few drops of food coloring to each portion to create the tie-dye effect.
3. Pour each colored batter into the prepared pans, creating a layered effect.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting (see below).
Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Tips: To achieve the tie-dye effect, don’t overmix the batter and stop adding color when you reach your desired shade. For the frosting, adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste.
Ombre Rainbow Layer Cake with Swiss Meringue Buttercream
This stunning Ombre Rainbow Layer Cake features layers of moist vanilla cake in shades of pink, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple, topped with a silky Swiss Meringue Buttercream. The result is a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
For the Swiss Meringue Buttercream:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. Bake the cakes according to instructions, allowing them to cool completely.
3. Make the Swiss Meringue Buttercream by whipping sugar, milk, and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Gradually add butter and vanilla extract.
4. Assemble the cake layers, spreading a thin layer of buttercream between each.
5. Decorate with additional buttercream as desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on oven temperature)
Funfetti Rainbow Layer Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting
A vibrant and playful dessert perfect for any celebration! This Funfetti Rainbow Layer Cake is a showstopper, featuring layers of moist vanilla cake infused with rainbow sprinkles and topped with a fluffy whipped cream frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) rainbow sprinkles
For the frosting:
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in rainbow sprinkles.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool completely on wire racks.
9. For the frosting, whip heavy whipping cream with sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
10. Assemble cake by spreading a layer of frosting between each cake layer.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate Rainbow Layer Cake with Chocolate Ganache
Celebrate any occasion with this stunning cake that combines rich chocolate flavor with a pop of color and velvety ganache. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the ganache:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients, then alternate adding milk mixture and eggs, whisking until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling the layers with buttercream frosting (not included).
5. For the ganache, combine cream and chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Drizzle ganache over the assembled cake.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (depending on layer baking time)
Vegan Rainbow Layer Cake with Coconut Frosting
Brighten up your special occasions with this stunning vegan rainbow layer cake, topped with a creamy coconut frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces vegan cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted vegan butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 2 teaspoons coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour six 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, non-dairy milk, oil, baking powder, and vanilla extract.
3. Divide the batter into six portions, adding a few drops of food coloring to each portion to create the rainbow effect.
4. Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with coconut cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 120-150 minutes (including baking time)
Gluten-Free Rainbow Layer Cake with Almond Flour
Elevate your dessert game with this stunning gluten-free rainbow layer cake, made possible by the use of almond flour. The result is a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
– 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 almond flour, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until smooth.
4. Divide the batter into six portions. Dye each portion with a different color to create the rainbow effect.
5. Pour each colored batter into prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely, then stack and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 60-75 minutes
Rainbow Layer Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust
This vibrant cheesecake features a layered masterpiece of colorful fillings and a crunchy graham cracker crust, perfect for any celebration. With its creamy texture and burst of flavors, it’s sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
– Confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press into a springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla extract.
4. Divide filling into six portions. Color each portion with a different color of food coloring.
5. Pour each colored layer into the prepared crust in order: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mini Rainbow Layer Cakes with Pastel Frosting
Brighten up your day with these adorable mini cakes featuring a gradient of colors and a sweet pastel frosting. Perfect for parties, snacks, or just because!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue)
– Pastel frosting (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour mini muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter and egg. Beat until smooth.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Divide batter into 5 portions and add a few drops of each color to create the rainbow effect.
6. Pour colored batter into prepared muffin tin.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with pastel frosting.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rainbow Layer Cake with Marshmallow Filling
Celebrate with a vibrant and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress! This Rainbow Layer Cake is filled with fluffy marshmallow goodness, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 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 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
For the marshmallow filling:
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour six 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. Divide batter into six portions and add food coloring to each portion for the desired rainbow effect.
4. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling the cake with marshmallow filling.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Lemon Rainbow Layer Cake with Citrus Glaze
Brighten up any occasion with this vibrant Lemon Rainbow Layer Cake, topped with a tangy and sweet Citrus Glaze. Layers of moist lemon cake are stacked with swirls of colorful buttercream and finished with a drizzle of citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the buttercream:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2-3 drops yellow food coloring
– 2-3 drops pink food coloring
– 1 tablespoon whole milk
For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Make the cake according to package instructions. Let cool completely.
3. Make the buttercream by creaming the butter and sugar, then adding coloring and milk. Assemble the layers with swirls of buttercream.
4. Whisk together glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over the top of the cake.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes per layer (6-7 total)
Red Velvet Rainbow Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Get ready to be amazed by this stunning layer cake that combines the classic flavors of red velvet and cream cheese frosting with a pop of color and fun. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
For the cakes:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 cup buttermilk
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another. Combine and stir until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Let cakes cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 75-90 minutes (including baking time)
Rainbow Layer Cake with Fresh Berry Compote
Elevate your dessert game with this vibrant and delicious rainbow layer cake paired with a sweet and tangy fresh berry compote. This show-stopping treat is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 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
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
For the compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour six 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the batter by adding food coloring to each layer (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple).
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. For the compote, combine berries, sugar, and honey in a bowl. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Assemble the cake by spreading a layer of buttercream (optional) and stacking the layers. Top with fresh berry compote.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including cooling time)
Carrot Cake Rainbow Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Brighten up your celebration with this stunning Carrot Cake Rainbow Layer Cake, topped with a tangy and creamy cream cheese frosting. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or any special occasion.
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
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, carrots, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling and frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 90-100 minutes
Rainbow Layer Cake with Edible Gold Leaf Decoration
Create a stunning cake that’s sure to impress with this vibrant rainbow layer cake and edible gold leaf decoration recipe. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a treat for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
– Edible gold leaf sheets
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and butter until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Divide batter into six portions and color each portion with a different food coloring.
4. Pour each colored batter into prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling the cake. Apply edible gold leaf sheets on top of the assembled cake.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Rainbow Layer Cake with Meringue Buttercream
Create a stunning cake that’s as colorful as it is delicious! This Rainbow Layer Cake features layers of moist vanilla cake, filled with whipped cream and topped with a fluffy meringue buttercream.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
For the meringue buttercream:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 4 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour six 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Divide batter evenly among the pans and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
3. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.
4. Whip heavy cream and spread on top of each layer. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with whipped cream on top.
5. For the meringue buttercream, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Beat in egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
6. Spread meringue buttercream on top of cake.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes per layer
Rainbow Layer Cake with Cookie Dough Filling
Brighten up your dessert table with this vibrant rainbow layer cake filled with creamy cookie dough goodness!
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the cookie dough filling:
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup creamy butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Make the cakes by whisking together dry ingredients, then alternating with wet ingredients in a separate bowl.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Let cakes cool completely before assembling.
5. Mix cookie dough filling ingredients until smooth.
6. Assemble cake by spreading a layer of frosting, followed by a layer of cookie dough, then repeat.
7. Top with rainbow-colored frosting and decorate as desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (including baking time).
Rainbow Layer Cake with Candy Crust Topping
This vibrant dessert is a showstopper at any party or celebration. Layers of moist cake, filled with colorful frosting and topped with a crunchy candy crust, will delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
For the candy crust:
– 1 cup crushed candy canes or sprinkles
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Prepare the cake batter according to package instructions.
3. Divide the batter evenly among three bowls and add a few drops of food coloring to create the rainbow effect.
4. Bake each layer for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
6. Prepare the frosting by beating together butter, powdered sugar, and salt.
7. Assemble the cake by spreading a thin layer of frosting between each layer.
8. Top with crushed candy canes or sprinkles for the candy crust.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to add some color and excitement to your baking with these 18 vibrant rainbow layer cake recipes! From classic vanilla buttercream to ombre, tie-dye, and funfetti designs, there’s something for every baker. These stunning cakes feature a range of flavors, including vegan and gluten-free options, as well as creative fillings and frostings like marshmallow, citrus glaze, and chocolate ganache. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert or just a sweet treat to brighten up your day, these recipes are sure to inspire your next baking adventure.