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Rainbow Bundt Cake Recipe

This Rainbow Bundt Cake is the ultimate celebration cake, featuring beautifully layered colors within a soft, buttery vanilla cake. Topped with a simple vanilla glaze, this stunning dessert is easy to make and perfect for birthdays, parties, and any occasion that calls for a splash of color. With vibrant hues and a deliciously moist texture, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • Food coloring red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple

For the Glaze:

  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 3-4 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Additional food coloring optional

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan thoroughly with butter and flour or nonstick spray.
  • Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add eggs and vanilla: One at a time, mix in the eggs, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Alternate dry ingredients and milk: Gradually add the flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.

Step 2: Create the Rainbow Effect

  • Divide the batter: Evenly separate the batter into six bowls.
  • Color the batter: Add a different food coloring to each bowl, stirring until fully incorporated.
  • Layer the colors: Pour the purple batter into the bottom of the Bundt pan, followed by blue, green, yellow, orange, and finally red. Do not mix; simply layer each color directly on top of the last.

Step 3: Bake and Cool

  • Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

  • Mix glaze ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If desired, divide the glaze into smaller bowls and tint with food coloring.
  • Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to flow over the ridges.

Notes

  • Use gel food coloring for the most vibrant hues without altering the batter consistency.
  • Tap the Bundt pan on the counter after layering the batter to remove air bubbles and ensure even distribution.
  • Grease your Bundt pan well to prevent sticking and maintain the beautiful shape of the cake.
  • If you want a more blended rainbow effect, gently swirl the colors with a skewer before baking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.