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Easy Rainbow Cake

This vibrant and delightful dessert features colorful layers of cake filled with creamy vanilla and cream cheese frosting, perfect for any celebration.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Celebration, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients
  • 2.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup butter (softened) for a creamy richness
  • 3 pieces eggs (room temperature) ensuring a light texture
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for aromatic warmth
  • 1 cup buttermilk for moisture and tang
  • 0.25 cup heavy whipping cream creating a luscious texture
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour forms the backbone of the cake
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder provides the perfect rise
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt enhances flavors
  • Food coloring (red, yellow, blue, green) for playful hues
Frosting Ingredients
  • 12 oz cream cheese (softened) for smooth, tangy flavor
  • 1.5 cups butter (softened but not melted) for creamy frosting
  • 6 cups powdered sugar to balance sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for frosting to tie the flavors together

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Generously grease and flour six (9-inch) cake pans.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs individually, mixing until fully incorporated.
  4. Mix in the vanilla extract, buttermilk, and heavy whipping cream until combined.
  5. Add half of the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt; mix, then add the remaining flour until smooth.
  6. Divide the batter into six bowls, adding food coloring to each for vibrant layers.
  7. Pour each colored batter into the prepared pans evenly and bake for 10-15 minutes.
Cooling & Frosting
  1. Remove the pans from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
  2. Run a spatula around the edges to loosen the cakes and gently remove them to cool completely.
  3. In a bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  4. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and remaining vanilla extract until fluffy.
  5. Layer the cake, beginning with the violet layer, frosting between each layer.
  6. Apply a thin crumb coat and chill before finishing with a final coat of frosting.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the intensity of food coloring, and consider using a cake leveler for even layers. Experiment with different frosting flavors if desired.