Rainbow Cake: A Colorful Confection to Brighten Any Occasion

Ingredients:

For the Rainbow Cake Layers:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• Gel food coloring (in various vibrant colors)

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Tools:

• Three 8-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Offset spatula
• Cake turntable (optional but helpful)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, then add the sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and pure vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until you have a smooth cake batter.

Step 5: Divide and Color the Batter

1. Divide the cake batter equally into separate bowls, one for each color of the rainbow.
2. Using gel food coloring, tint each bowl of batter with the colors of your choice. Start with a small amount of coloring and add more until you achieve your desired vibrancy.

Step 6: Bake the Rainbow Cake Layers

1. Pour each colored batter into its own prepared cake pan.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
3. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and well combined. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a bit more milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 8: Assemble and Frost the Rainbow Cake

1. If needed, level the tops of the cooled cake layers with a cake leveler or a serrated knife to ensure they are even.
2. Start with one cake layer as the base and spread a layer of vanilla buttercream frosting over the top using an offset spatula.
3. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process with each colored layer, spreading a layer of frosting between each.
4. After stacking all layers, frost the entire cake with a generous layer of vanilla buttercream. Create a smooth or textured finish, depending on your preference.

Step 9: Decorate Your Rainbow Cake

Now it’s time to let your creativity shine! You can decorate your Rainbow Cake with additional frosting swirls, sprinkles, edible flowers, or any other decorations that suit your occasion and theme.

Step 10: Slice and Savor

Finally, slice into your Rainbow Cake and savor each vibrant, flavorful, and delightful bite. Share it with your loved ones and enjoy the joy of creating and indulging in this masterpiece.

Baking a Rainbow Cake is a delightful journey that allows you to combine your creativity with your love for sweet treats. With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to embark on this colorful baking adventure. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let your imagination run wild as you create a Rainbow Cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Happy baking and even happier savoring!