If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s bursting with festive colors and irresistible flavor, the Red, White, and Blue Layered Cake Recipe is going to become your new go-to. This delightful cake gives you three vibrant layers of moist white cake, perfectly tinted with red and blue gel colors, all topped with a velvety whipped cream frosting infused with white chocolate pudding. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a crowd-pleaser that’s simply heavenly with each bite. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, patriotic holiday, or any special occasion, this cake brings an extra sparkle of joy to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
While the ingredient list may look straightforward, each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and those iconic red, white, and blue hues. Together, they make baking this layered cake a breeze and ensure a tender crumb with a creamy finish.
- 1 box white cake mix: The base of your cake, it provides a light and fluffy texture that lets colors pop beautifully.
- 3.4 oz package white chocolate pudding mix: Adds moisture and rich flavor; reserve 2 tablespoons for the whipped cream topping.
- 1 ¼ cups water: Hydrates the dry mix so the batter blends perfectly smooth.
- ½ cups vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without overpowering flavors.
- 4 large eggs: Adds structure and helps the cake rise to a light, airy finish.
- 1 ¼ teaspoon red gel food color: Gives that vibrant, patriotic red layer without thinning the batter.
- 1 teaspoon blue gel food color: Produces the bold blue layer, completing the trifecta of colors.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped into a fluffy, heavenly topping for the cake.
- 2 Tablespoons reserved white chocolate pudding mix: Mixed into the whipped cream for extra flavor and stability.
- Red, white, and blue sprinkles (optional): Adds a fun festive touch to the finished dessert.
How to Make Red, White, and Blue Layered Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking from the get-go. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan thoroughly so your colorful layers won’t stick once baked. This simple step makes the difference between a perfect lift and a cake that breaks apart.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, most of the white chocolate pudding mix (save two tablespoons for later), water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Use a hand mixer to beat everything together until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. This mix is your blank canvas, ready for layers of festive color.
Step 3: Divide and Color the Batter
Split the batter evenly among three bowls, about one and a third cups in each. In the first bowl, stir in the red gel food color; in the second, add the blue gel food color; leave the third plain for the white layer. Gel colors are best here as they provide bright, vivid hues without making the batter too runny.
Step 4: Layer the Cake Batter
Pour the blue batter evenly into your prepared pan, carefully spreading it out to cover the bottom. Then, gently pour the white batter on top of the blue layer, tilting the pan so it sits evenly without swirling the layers together. Finally, add the red batter on top, taking care again to maintain distinct layering. This method builds those gorgeous stripes of red, white, and blue that make the cake so special.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cake for 33 to 38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Oven times can vary, so keep an eye on it as the cake nears its finish. Once done, let the cake cool completely in the pan before moving on to the frosting.
Step 6: Whip Up the Creamy Topping
In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream along with the reserved two tablespoons of white chocolate pudding mix until stiff peaks form. This topping not only complements the moist cake layers but also adds a smooth, sweet finish that pulls the whole dessert together.
Step 7: Frost and Decorate
Spread the whipped cream frosting evenly over the cooled cake, then sprinkle with optional red, white, and blue sprinkles for an extra festive and playful touch. This step seals the deal and makes your Red, White, and Blue Layered Cake Recipe truly irresistible.
How to Serve Red, White, and Blue Layered Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the whipped cream frosting and sprinkles are already a feast for the eyes, consider adding fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberry dust for natural contrast and a refreshing burst of fruitiness. These additions enhance the patriotic theme while bringing brightness to every bite.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of tangy lemon curd. Either side dish elevates the dessert experience by balancing sweetness with a little zing or creaminess, making each forkful memorable.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve slices directly from the pan with colorful plates. If you want to impress, cut the cake into neat squares or diamonds and arrange them on a large platter, garnished with berries and mint leaves. Layer cakes also look stunning in clear cake stands that show off their patriotic layers beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep both the cake and whipped topping fresh. It will remain delicious for up to four days, so you can enjoy the festive flavors without any rush.
Freezing
If you want to keep the cake longer, slice it and freeze the pieces in a sealed container layered with parchment paper. Frozen cake leftovers maintain their flavor for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Since this cake features a whipped cream topping, reheating isn’t typically recommended as it could affect the texture. If you prefer a warmed slice, remove the frosting first and heat the cake portion gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, then add the chilled whipped topping back on.
FAQs
Can I use homemade white cake instead of the boxed mix?
Absolutely! A homemade white cake recipe works beautifully in this layered cake, giving you more control over ingredients and flavor. Just keep the pudding mix in the batter to maintain moisture and softness.
What if I don’t have gel food coloring?
You can use liquid food coloring, but be mindful that it might thin your batter slightly and produce less vibrant colors. Adjust quantities accordingly and add a bit less water to compensate.
Can this cake be made in a round cake pan?
Yes, you can use round pans if you like. Just divide the batter evenly and layer the colors in the pans. Adjust baking times slightly based on pan size, and use a toothpick to test doneness.
How do I make the whipped cream topping more stable?
In this recipe, the white chocolate pudding mix helps stabilize the whipped cream. For extra stability, ensure your cream is very cold before whipping, and beat to stiff peaks but avoid over-beating to prevent curdling.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free version and confirm the pudding mix is gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy the festive layers without worry.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about layering bright red, white, and blue batter and watching it bake into a beautiful cake that tastes just as fantastic as it looks. The Red, White, and Blue Layered Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece for celebrating moments with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easy it is to bring a bit of festive magic into your kitchen!
Print
Red, White, and Blue Layered Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A festive Red White and Blue Layered Cake featuring colorful layers of white cake mix tinted with red and blue gel food coloring, layered and topped with a fluffy white chocolate whipped cream frosting. Perfect for patriotic celebrations, this cake is easy to prepare and visually stunning.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box white cake mix
- 3.4 oz package white chocolate pudding mix (2 tablespoons reserved for whipped cream topping)
- 1 ¼ cups water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ¼ teaspoon red gel food color
- 1 teaspoon blue gel food color
Topping
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons reserved white chocolate pudding mix
- Red, white, and blue sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking pan thoroughly and set it aside to be ready for the batter.
- Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, white chocolate pudding mix (except the 2 tablespoons you reserve for the topping), water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Using a hand mixer, beat everything together for several minutes until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Divide and Color Batter: Evenly divide the cake batter into three separate bowls, approximately 1 1/3 cups per bowl. Add the red gel food coloring to one bowl and the blue gel food coloring to another, stirring each until the color is uniform. Leave the third batter plain white.
- Layer the Cake Batter: Pour the blue batter evenly into the greased baking pan, spreading it gently to cover the bottom. Carefully pour the white batter on top of the blue layer, moving the bowl around to ensure an even coat without swirling the layers. Spread the white batter gently where coverage is thin. Finally, add the red batter on top of the white layer, spreading gently to cover.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 33-38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream with the reserved 2 tablespoons of white chocolate pudding mix. Using a mixer, beat the mixture on high until stiff peaks form, creating a fluffy whipped cream frosting.
- Frost and Decorate: Spread the whipped cream topping evenly over the cooled layered cake. If desired, sprinkle red, white, and blue sprinkles over the top for a festive touch. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Using gel food coloring instead of liquid helps maintain the batter consistency and vibrant color layers.
- Be careful when pouring each batter layer to avoid mixing layers and maintain distinct colors.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
- Sprinkles are optional but add a fun festive decoration for patriotic occasions.
- This cake can be prepared a day ahead; keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness.
