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

unicorn cake

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

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
Keyword birthday cake, magical cake, rainbow cake, Unicorn cake