15-Minute Rainbow Cake Parfait
Stack store-bought yellow or vanilla cake layers with vivid food coloring and buttercream for an Instagram-worthy rainbow effect — no baking required. Inspired by viral layer-cake photos, this no-bake version comes together in minutes.
- Total time
- 15 min
- Servings
- 6
- Calories
- 485
- Protein
- 3g

Ingredients
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Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until pale and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Step 2
Add cream and vanilla, then beat until smooth. Divide into 6 small bowls.
Step 3
Tint each bowl with one gel color, stirring until vibrant — colors should be bold and distinct.
Step 4
Level and slice the cake into 2 thin rounds per color (6 layers total). Trim to same size if needed.
Step 5
Stack layers on a cake stand or plate: cake layer, then tinted buttercream, repeat. Top with final cake round.
Step 6
Frost the outside with remaining buttercream in a coordinating color. Garnish with berries or sprinkles.
Tools you’ll need
- electric mixer or whisk
- 6 small bowls
- serrated cake knife
- cake stand or plate
- offset spatula
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