Are you looking for a show-stopping dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This vibrant rainbow cookie cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a delicious and visually stunning treat. Forget complicated baking; this recipe offers simple steps to create a masterpiece that will wow your friends and family. It’s a perfect example of delicious dishes made easy, ideal for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas, as it's easily adaptable to different schedules. Get ready to experience the joy of creating this beautiful and tasty rainbow cookie cake!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups (360-480g) powdered sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Gel food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don't overmix!
Step 2: Create the Rainbow Effect
Divide the batter evenly into six bowls. Add a different gel food coloring to each bowl, creating vibrant shades of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple.
Layer the batter into the prepared pan, spreading each color evenly in a horizontal stripe. You can use a knife or spatula to gently swirl the colors together for a marbled effect if desired. This is where you can express your creativity!
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, and beat until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk; if it's too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Step 5: Frost and Decorate
Once the cake is completely cool, frost the top with the prepared frosting. You can use a spatula or piping bag for a more decorative look. Let the frosting set before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use buttermilk instead of regular milk.
- You can substitute oil for butter for a vegan option. Be sure to adjust the quantity as needed.
- Add sprinkles or other decorations to the frosting for extra flair.
- For a more intense color, use a higher quality gel food coloring.
- This cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 350-400 Fat: 15-20g Saturated Fat: 10-15g Sugar: 30-40g Protein: 4-5g
This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals (when using healthier substitutions), and satisfying homemade cooking experiences. It’s also a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas – although it's really more of a dessert! Enjoy baking and savor this beautiful and delicious rainbow cookie cake.