Multicoloured Cake

Name: Multicoloured Cake
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 135 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups granulated sugar; 5 large eggs (room temperature); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups whole milk (room temperature); various gel food colouring (as needed); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 4 cups icing sugar (sifted); 1/4 cup heavy cream (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

135 min 12 slices Medium

All Recipes

Multicoloured Cake

A vibrant and fun multicoloured cake that's perfect for celebrations. Layers of colourful sponge cake come together with a creamy frosting for a delightful treat.

Prep

45 min

Cook

30 min

Total

135 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

The multicoloured cake, also known as a rainbow cake, is a visually stunning dessert that is sure to impress at any gathering. Each layer of the cake is dyed with a different colour, creating a striking rainbow effect once sliced. This cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. With a light and fluffy texture, and a creamy frosting to bind it all together, it's perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottoms of six 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.

Pro tip: If you don't have six pans, bake in batches.

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 with an electric mixer at medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Pro tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Pro tip: Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk

Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Pro tip: Do not overmix to maintain a tender crumb.

Colour the Batter

Divide the batter evenly into six bowls. Add a different gel food colouring to each bowl and mix until the desired colour is reached.

Pro tip: Use separate spoons for each colour to avoid cross-contamination.

Bake Cake Layers

Pour each coloured batter into its prepared cake pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: Rotate pans halfway through baking for even cooking.

Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Pro tip: Ensure cakes are completely cool before frosting.

Prepare the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the icing sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, and beat until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Pro tip: Adjust the consistency with more cream or icing sugar as needed.

Assemble the Cake

Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top. Repeat with the remaining layers. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake.

Pro tip: Chill the cake for easier slicing.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use gel food colouring for more vibrant layers without altering the batter consistency.
Chill the cake layers in the fridge before frosting to prevent crumbs in the icing.
For even baking, weigh the batter before dividing it into bowls for different colours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a gateau arc en ciel?

A 'gateau arc en ciel' is a French term for a rainbow cake, characterized by its multiple layers of different coloured sponge cake.

Can I see an image of the cake?

You can search online for 'multicoloured cake' or 'rainbow cake' images to see examples of this vibrant dessert.

How do you ensure the colours are vibrant?

Use gel food colouring for more vibrant colours without affecting the batter's consistency.

How long does it take to bake the cake layers?

Each cake layer takes 15-20 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C).

Can the cake be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead. Wrap them tightly and store in the fridge before frosting.

What size pans are used for this cake?

This recipe uses six 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans.

Serving Suggestions

This multicoloured cake can be prepared a day in advance. Simply wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. The frosted cake can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. Its vibrant colours make it a delightful centrepiece for any party table.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

Protein

23g

Fat

A rich, spiced molasses cake with a tender crumb, perfect for any occasion.

Medium70 min

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