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A colorful unicorn cake with vibrant rainbow layers, buttercream frosting, a golden fondant horn, pastel decorations, and sparkling edible glitter.
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unicorn cake

Create a magical unicorn cake with vibrant layers, creamy frosting, and sparkling decorations. Perfect for birthdays and celebrations.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword birthday cake, magical cake, rainbow cake, Unicorn cake
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
decorating time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 12 slices
Calories 450kcal
Author C. Sophie

Ingredients

  • For the Cake Layers:

2 ¾ cups (340g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake.

1 tbsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise for a fluffy texture.

½ tsp baking soda – Balances acidity for even baking.

½ tsp salt – Enhances the flavors.

1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.

2 cups (400g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and aids in a tender crumb.

4 large eggs, at room temperature – Adds structure and stability.

1 tbsp vanilla extract – Infuses the cake with a classic, comforting flavor.

1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature – Keeps the cake moist and soft.

Gel food coloring (assorted colors) – For those signature rainbow layers.

  • For the Buttercream Frosting:

1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened – The creamy base for a smooth frosting.

4 cups (500g) powdered sugar – Creates a light, fluffy consistency.

2-3 tbsp heavy cream – Adjusts the texture for easy spreading.

1 tsp vanilla extract – Complements the cake’s sweetness.

Gel food coloring (optional) – For colorful accents or a pastel swirl effect.

  • For the Decorations:

White fondant – Use it to craft unicorn ears and the iconic horn.

Edible gold paint or gold dust – Adds a shimmering finish to the horn and accents.

Sprinkles, edible glitter, or candy pearls – Perfect for creating a magical look.

Piping bags with star tips – For creating swirls, rosettes, or other frosting designs.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Tools

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • Gather all your tools, including mixing bowls, a stand or hand mixer, spatulas, and measuring cups.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Reduce the mixer speed to low and alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Divide and Color the Batter

  • Divide the batter evenly into 4-5 bowls, depending on how many rainbow layers you want.
  • Add a few drops of gel food coloring to each bowl, creating vibrant hues. Mix until the color is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

  • Pour each colored batter into the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
  • Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, then beat on high speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
  • Optional: Divide the frosting and tint with gel food coloring for colorful accents.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

  • Place the first cake layer on a cake board or stand. Spread a thin, even layer of frosting on top.
  • Repeat with the remaining layers, stacking them carefully.
  • Apply a thin crumb coat (a light layer of frosting to seal in crumbs) and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  • Add the final layer of frosting, smoothing it with an offset spatula for a clean finish.

Step 7: Decorate Your Unicorn Cake

  • Roll out the fondant and shape it into unicorn ears and a horn. Use gold edible paint to add shimmer.
  • Pipe swirls and rosettes of frosting around the top of the cake using a piping bag and star tip.
  • Finish with sprinkles, edible glitter, or any decorations of your choice.

Step 8: Final Touches

  • Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing to ensure clean, defined layers.
  • When ready to serve, let the cake sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 190mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 65g
    • Sugars: 45g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g