Chocolate Rainbow Swirl is a visually stunning and delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with vibrant rainbow-colored layers. This rolled cake features a moist, tender crumb and a swirl of creamy filling, all wrapped in a glossy chocolate glaze and topped with colorful sprinkles. Perfect for celebrations, this cake brings both joy and flavor to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chocolate Rainbow Swirl is not just a dessert—it is a showpiece that delights both the eyes and the palate. Here’s why you’ll love making and serving it:
- Striking appearance: The rainbow layers inside the cake create a beautiful swirl pattern that makes each slice special.
- Rich chocolate flavor: The deep cocoa notes are balanced with the creamy filling and sweet glaze.
- Festive and fun: This cake is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests.
- Customizable: You can adjust the colors, fillings, or decorations to match your theme or personal taste.
Whether you are baking for a party or simply want to create something memorable, this cake is sure to be a highlight.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
eggs
granulated sugar
all-purpose flour
cocoa powder
baking powder
salt
vegetable oil or melted butter
vanilla extract
food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
heavy cream
chocolate chips (for glaze)
sprinkles
Directions
- Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold to combine. Add oil and vanilla extract.
- Divide and color: Divide the batter evenly among six small bowls. Add a few drops of a different food coloring to each bowl, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Layer the batter: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or piping bag, spread stripes of each color in order to create a rainbow pattern.
- Bake the cake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
- Roll the cake: While the cake is still warm, turn it out onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently roll the cake (with the towel) into a log shape and allow it to cool completely.
- Fill and re-roll: Unroll the cooled cake and spread with a layer of cream filling or frosting of your choice. Carefully re-roll the cake.
- Glaze: Melt the chocolate chips with cream to create a smooth ganache. Pour over the cake and spread evenly.
- Decorate: Top with rainbow sprinkles or other desired decorations. Chill until set before slicing.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 10 to 12 people. Preparation time is around 30 minutes, with 10-12 minutes for baking, and additional cooling and decorating time of about 1 hour.
Variations
There are many ways to customize this cake:
- Different fillings: Try cream cheese frosting, chocolate mousse, or whipped ganache as the filling.
- Alternative colors: Adjust the color palette to match a holiday theme (e.g., red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter).
- Gluten-free option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
- Extra toppings: Add edible glitter, candy pieces, or piped frosting designs for more festive flair.
Storage/reheating
Store the Chocolate Rainbow Swirl cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture. This cake does not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without food coloring?
Yes, you can skip the colors for a classic chocolate swirl cake or use natural food colorings made from fruit and vegetable powders.
How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
Roll the cake while it is still warm and flexible. Using a towel helps support the cake and prevents cracking.
What type of filling works best?
A light cream or frosting that spreads easily and complements chocolate, such as whipped cream, mascarpone filling, or buttercream, works well.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
How do I get bright, vibrant colors?
Use gel or paste food coloring rather than liquid for more intense shades without thinning the batter.
What can I use instead of chocolate ganache?
You can use a simple chocolate glaze made from powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and milk or even a store-bought frosting.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, the cake can be made and assembled a day ahead. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Is this cake suitable for children’s parties?
Absolutely. The bright colors and fun design make it a hit at children’s events.
How can I make the glaze shiny?
Use a bit of corn syrup or butter in the ganache to give it a glossy finish.
Can I make a dairy-free version?
Yes, substitute the cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate for the ganache. Choose a dairy-free filling as well.
Conclusion
Chocolate Rainbow Swirl is a delightful dessert that combines beautiful presentation with decadent taste. The tender chocolate cake, creamy filling, and vibrant layers make it a standout centerpiece for any festive occasion. With its versatility and visual appeal, this cake is as fun to make as it is to serve. Whether you stick with the classic rainbow or adapt the colors to suit your celebration, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and compliments.
PrintChocolate Rainbow Swirl
Chocolate Rainbow Swirl is a visually stunning and delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with vibrant rainbow-colored layers, creamy filling, and a glossy chocolate glaze. Perfect for celebrations, this cake brings both joy and flavor to the table.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Eggs
- Granulated sugar
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Vegetable oil or melted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
- Heavy cream
- Chocolate chips (for glaze)
- Sprinkles
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold to combine. Add oil and vanilla extract.
- Divide the batter evenly among six small bowls. Add a few drops of a different food coloring to each bowl, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or piping bag, spread stripes of each color in order to create a rainbow pattern.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
- While the cake is still warm, turn it out onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently roll the cake (with the towel) into a log shape and allow it to cool completely.
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread with a layer of cream filling or frosting of your choice. Carefully re-roll the cake.
- Melt the chocolate chips with cream to create a smooth ganache. Pour over the cake and spread evenly.
- Top with rainbow sprinkles or other desired decorations. Chill until set before slicing.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce.
- Can use pork belly instead of beef for a different take on burnt ends.
- For a sweeter glaze, add honey or maple syrup during the final cooking phase.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Can freeze burnt ends for up to 2 months.
- Classic sides to serve with burnt ends include coleslaw, mac and cheese, baked beans, and cornbread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg