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Realistic unicorn cake with multi-layered white cake, pink and blue swirls, fondant unicorn topper, rainbow cupcakes, sprinkles, and edible glitter on a wooden board with "Happy Birthday" text.

Unicorn Cake

Ella
A vibrant and magical Unicorn Cake featuring colorful layers and whimsical decorations. Perfect for any celebration or special event!
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Slices
Calories 475 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • Food coloring 4-5 colors of your choice for the rainbow layers

For the Buttercream Frosting:

  • 2 cups unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tbsp heavy cream adjust for desired consistency
  • Food coloring 4-5 colors for the frosting

For Decorations:

  • 1 unicorn horn store-bought or homemade with fondant
  • 2 unicorn ears fondant or edible decorations
  • Edible glitter or sprinkles optional, for extra magic!

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Prepare the Cake Batter:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.

Color the Batter:

  • Divide the batter into 4-5 bowls (depending on the number of colors you want).
  • Add a few drops of food coloring to each bowl and stir until the desired color is achieved.

Bake the Cakes:

  • Spoon each color of batter into the prepared pans, layering the colors one by one.
  • Use a spatula or knife to swirl the batter slightly for a marble effect, if desired.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Buttercream Frosting:

  • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until smooth.
  • Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, then beat until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency.
  • Divide the frosting into 4-5 bowls and color each with a different shade of food coloring.

Assemble the Cake:

  • Once the cakes are completely cool, level them if necessary.
  • Place the first layer on your cake stand or plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top.
  • Add the second layer and repeat with frosting. Top with the third layer and cover the entire cake with a thin crumb coat of frosting to seal in any crumbs.
  • Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set the crumb coat.

Decorate the Cake:

  • Once the crumb coat is set, apply a thicker layer of frosting, smoothing it with a spatula.
  • Use different colored frosting to pipe rosettes, swirls, or other decorative elements around the cake.
  • Decorate with a unicorn horn and ears (either store-bought or made from fondant).
  • Optionally, add edible glitter or sprinkles for a magical touch.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • Once decorated, the cake is ready to be served!
  • Slice, enjoy the fun, and watch as your guests marvel at the stunning unicorn cake.

Notes

  • Nutrition Information (per serving):
    • Calories: 475
    • Fat: 24g
    • Saturated Fat: 14g
    • Carbs: 63g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Sugar: 50g
    • Protein: 4g
    • Cholesterol: 90mg
    • Sodium: 150mg
Keyword Magical Cake, Rainbow Cake, Unicorn Cake