Rainbow Bundt Cake

There’s something magical about a Rainbow Bundt Cake that brings out the child in all of us. I remember the first time I saw one at a friend’s birthday party. It was vibrant, cheerful, and absolutely captivating. I couldn’t resist sneaking a slice, watching as the layers of colors revealed themselves with each cut. The combination of sweet flavors and the visual feast made it unforgettable. Since then, I’ve made it for various occasions, and it never fails to impress. Whether it’s a birthday, a potluck, or just a sunny weekend, this cake is a guaranteed showstopper. Its beautiful colors and delightful taste create a sense of happiness that fills the room. I truly believe every slice tells its own story, one of joy and celebration, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Ingredients to Make Rainbow Bundt Cake

When it comes to baking a Rainbow Bundt Cake, the ingredients are key players in creating both flavor and texture. Each component works in harmony to produce a cake that’s not only beautiful but also delicious. The combination of all-purpose flour, eggs, and butter forms a moist base, while the vibrant food colorings bring the cake to life.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your cake, providing the structure and texture for that perfect crumb.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: This will help your cake rise and achieve that fluffy texture we all love.
• 1 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: This complements the acidic buttermilk, helping the cake to rise.
• 2 1/4 cups granulated white sugar: This sweetens the cake and adds moisture, leading to a tender crumb.
• 1 cup unsalted butter: The richness from the butter adds flavor and moisture.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil: This also contributes to the moisture and tenderness of the cake.
• 4 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and stability, helping to bind all the ingredients together.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• 1 1/3 cups buttermilk: This helps to create a tender crumb and adds a slight tanginess to balance the sweetness.
• Food coloring: Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple food coloring (gel paste works best). These colors create the beautiful layers in your cake.
• 3 cups powdered sugar: Used for the glaze, adding sweetness and a glossy finish.
• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest: Adds a bright, fresh flavor to the glaze.
• 4 to 5 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: This helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency and adds a tart note.

How to Make Rainbow Bundt Cake

Making a Rainbow Bundt Cake is easier than it looks, and I promise it’s worth every step. The vibrant colors and delightful flavors come together beautifully. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have an impressive dessert that will wow your friends and family!

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. It’s important to have the oven at the right temperature before you begin baking. But while it heats up, take a 12-cup bundt pan and spray it generously with nonstick spray to ensure your cake releases easily after baking.

2. Next, in a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. This is a crucial step that helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour, ensuring a perfect rise.

3. In a separate larger bowl, use a hand mixer to combine the sugar, butter, and oil on medium speed for about four minutes. You want the mixture to be light and fluffy, which means you’re incorporating air into the batter. Once it’s nice and creamy, it’s time to add the eggs.

4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract and continue beating for another two minutes. This helps to build a lovely, rich flavor in your cake.

5. Now, it’s time to alternate adding the flour mixture and the buttermilk into your wet ingredients. Start by adding one third of the flour mixture, then half of the buttermilk. Repeat this until everything is combined, beating until just incorporated. Be cautious not to overmix; you want your cake to be light and fluffy.

6. Once your batter is ready, divide it equally among six small bowls, aiming for about 1 1/3 cups in each bowl. This is where the fun begins! Start by adding the red food coloring to one bowl, stirring until the color is even. Repeat this process with the remaining colors (orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple), ensuring the colors are vibrant.

7. Transfer the first colored batter (red) into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly using a spoon or an offset spatula. Follow with the other colors in the order you prefer. Try to layer each color evenly without swirling them together; the magic happens in the oven!

8. Once all the colors are in the pan, bake your cake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s puffed, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Patience is key here!

9. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for maintaining its shape and ensuring a smooth finish.

10. In the meantime, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth. You might need to adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice, one teaspoon at a time, until it’s thick but pourable.

11. Once the cake is completely cooled, pour the glaze over it, allowing it to drip down the sides beautifully. Let it set for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Your Rainbow Bundt Cake is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To make sure your Rainbow Bundt Cake turns out perfectly, here are some pro tips to keep in mind. It’s these little tricks that can elevate your baking game!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep the cake moist. It can last up to three days at room temperature or a week in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to three months.
• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps achieve a better emulsion and a smoother batter.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, consider reducing the sugar slightly, especially in the glaze.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add extracts or zests to the batter for a unique twist on flavor. Lemon or orange zest can add a lovely citrus note.
• Layering colors: When layering the colored batter, take your time to spread each layer evenly for a beautiful presentation.
• Glaze alternatives: If you want a different topping, consider a cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar for a less sweet option.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Rainbow Bundt Cake, the options are as colorful as the cake itself! Here are some delightful ideas:

• Pair with fresh berries: Serve slices with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a burst of flavor.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top enhances the cake’s sweetness and adds a creamy texture.
• Perfect for celebrations: This cake is ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or family gatherings; its vibrant colors are sure to impress.
• Seasonal touches: Consider serving it with seasonal fruits, like peaches in summer or apples in fall, to complement its flavors.
• Drinks pairing: Pair with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing complement during warm days.
• Storage tips: If you have leftovers, be sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Glazing options: You can also drizzle a chocolate ganache over the cake for a decadent twist!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Rainbow Bundt Cake is a delightful treat that brings joy and color to any gathering. Its beautiful layers and delicious flavor will surely impress your guests and make it a favorite. I encourage you to try baking one; you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the process and savor every colorful slice.

Rainbow Bundt Cake

Craving something colorful and delicious? The Rainbow Bundt Cake is the ultimate dessert that combines vibrant layers with a rich, buttery flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this cake will add a splash of happiness to your table. Make it tonight for a delightful treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 35 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 14 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 1/4 cups granulated white sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs at room temperature.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/3 cups buttermilk
• 1 set food coloring red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple (gel paste works best).
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
• 4 to 5 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Equipment

• Food Processor
• Grater
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Blender
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. It's important to have the oven at the right temperature before you begin baking. But while it heats up, take a 12-cup bundt pan and spray it generously with nonstick spray to ensure your cake releases easily after baking.
2. Next, in a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. This is a crucial step that helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour, ensuring a perfect rise.
3. In a separate larger bowl, use a hand mixer to combine the sugar, butter, and oil on medium speed for about four minutes. You want the mixture to be light and fluffy, which means you’re incorporating air into the batter. Once it’s nice and creamy, it’s time to add the eggs.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract and continue beating for another two minutes. This helps to build a lovely, rich flavor in your cake.
5. Now, it’s time to alternate adding the flour mixture and the buttermilk into your wet ingredients. Start by adding one third of the flour mixture, then half of the buttermilk. Repeat this until everything is combined, beating until just incorporated. Be cautious not to overmix; you want your cake to be light and fluffy.
6. Once your batter is ready, divide it equally among six small bowls, aiming for about 1 1/3 cups in each bowl. This is where the fun begins! Start by adding the red food coloring to one bowl, stirring until the color is even. Repeat this process with the remaining colors (orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple), ensuring the colors are vibrant.
7. Transfer the first colored batter (red) into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly using a spoon or an offset spatula. Follow with the other colors in the order you prefer. Try to layer each color evenly without swirling them together; the magic happens in the oven!
8. Once all the colors are in the pan, bake your cake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s puffed, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Patience is key here!
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for maintaining its shape and ensuring a smooth finish.
10. In the meantime, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth. You might need to adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice, one teaspoon at a time, until it’s thick but pourable.
11. Once the cake is completely cooled, pour the glaze over it, allowing it to drip down the sides beautifully. Let it set for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Your Rainbow Bundt Cake is now ready to be enjoyed!

Notes

• Tip 1: Gel color paste works best for this recipe. You can find it in the baking aisle of craft stores like Michaels.
• Tip 2: Make-ahead tip: You can prepare this cake up to three days in advance.
• Tip 3: Store the cooled glazed cake in a cake container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

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Meet Simone Patel

Food is the ultimate connector, and I approach every recipe with the host in mind. I focus on creating meals that scale well for crowds and make entertaining effortless. I cooked and tested this meal to ensure it holds up beautifully from the stove to the serving platter, ready for your guests.