Show-Stopping Rainbow Layer Cake Recipe | Bright, Colorful, and Delicious

Learn how to make a stunning Rainbow Layer Cake with this easy recipe! Perfect for celebrations, this cake is vibrant, delicious, and sure to impress. Step-by-step instructions for a beautiful and tasty cake.

Vibrant and Customizable: The rainbow layer cake is visually stunning and can be tailored with your favorite colors and flavors, making it perfect for any celebration.

Rich and Moist: The combination of butter and whole milk in the batter creates a rich, moist cake that is deliciously complemented by a creamy, fluffy buttercream frosting.

FAQs

Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid? Yes, gel food coloring works well and provides vibrant colors without affecting the batter's consistency.
How do I ensure even layers in my cake? Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly among the bowls. Level the tops of each cake layer before assembling.
Can I substitute butter with margarine in this recipe? Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used if necessary.
Why should I use room temperature ingredients? Room temperature ingredients mix more easily and evenly, resulting in a better-textured cake.
How can I prevent the cake from sticking to the pans? Grease the pans well and line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Is it necessary to use all six colors for the layers? No, you can customize the colors to your preference or the theme of your event.
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap. Assemble and frost the next day.
How do I achieve smooth frosting on the outside of the cake? Use a crumb coat first and chill the cake, then apply a final layer of frosting and smooth it with an offset spatula.
Can I use a different type of frosting? Yes, you can use cream cheese frosting or any other favorite frosting.
How long can I store this cake? Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze the cake layers? Yes, wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.
What’s the best way to slice the cake to keep the layers neat? Use a sharp, serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts for the best presentation.
Can I add flavors to each layer? Yes, you can add different extracts to each colored layer for a unique flavor experience.
How do I avoid overmixing the batter? Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense or tough cake.
Can I use different sizes of cake pans? Yes, but you will need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Make it

Show-Stopping Rainbow Layer Cake

Serving: 12-16 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes (per batch)
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (plus cooling and decorating)

Ingredients

For the Cake:

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, at room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups whole milk, at room temperature
Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)

For the Frosting:

2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
8 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line six 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper. If you don't have six pans, bake in batches.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar on medium-high until fluffy (3-5 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
On low speed, add flour mixture in three parts, alternating with milk, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Color the Batter

Divide batter evenly into six bowls.
Add food coloring to each bowl, creating red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple batters. Mix until colors are vibrant.

Step 4: Bake the Cakes

Pour each colored batter into prepared pans.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat butter on medium speed until creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on high speed for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Level tops of cakes if needed.
Place purple layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top.
Repeat with blue, green, yellow, orange, and red layers, spreading a thin layer of frosting between each.
Apply a crumb coat around the outside of the cake. Chill for 15-30 minutes to set.
Frost the outside of the cake with remaining frosting, smoothing with an offset spatula.

Step 7: Decorate

Add decorations like rainbow sprinkles, edible glitter, or piped frosting.
Slice and serve to reveal beautiful rainbow layers inside!

Tips for Your Video

Showcase Colors: Highlight the vibrant batter in bowls to emphasize the rainbow effect.
Layering and Frosting: Focus on the layering and frosting processes to show the assembly.
Close-Ups: Use close-up shots for key moments, like cutting into the cake to reveal the layers.
Engaging Content: Add fun music and upbeat commentary to keep the video lively and engaging.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 650
Total Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 135mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 90g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 75g
Protein: 4g

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