Custrd is out now on the App Store and Google Play — Try it free for 7 days →
Back to recipes

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
15-Minute Rainbow Cake Parfait
celebratoryindulgentamericanvegetarianfluffycreamysoftDessert

Ingredients

7 items — tap to check off

Missing one? Custrd suggests a swap that works.

Open the app

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until pale and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Add cream and vanilla, then beat until smooth. Divide into 6 small bowls.

  3. Step 3

    Tint each bowl with one gel color, stirring until vibrant — colors should be bold and distinct.

  4. Step 4

    Level and slice the cake into 2 thin rounds per color (6 layers total). Trim to same size if needed.

  5. Step 5

    Stack layers on a cake stand or plate: cake layer, then tinted buttercream, repeat. Top with final cake round.

  6. 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

Cook smarter

Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge

Custrd is an iPhone and Android app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations. Try it free for 7 days.