It's officially ice cream season. But, let's be honest, every season should be ice cream season. Partner it with cake and... mmmm, I'm getting hungry!
What better way to celebrate ice cream, cake and Pride than with a rainbow ice cream cake.
Trust me, this recipe is surprisingly simple, requires no baking, and will be the star of any Pride party. The best part about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to adapt it to your favorite ice cream flavors and preferred cake base.
Here's what you'll need:
Cake Base: I prefer using a store-bought angel food cake or pound cake for a light and airy texture. You could also use a boxed cake mix, baked and cooled, if you prefer something denser.
Ice Cream: Choose six different ice cream flavors that represent the colors of the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple/violet. Think strawberry, orange sherbet, lemon, mint chocolate chip, blueberry and grape! Let them soften slightly at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes – this will make them easier to spread.
Whipped Topping: A container of whipped topping, thawed.
Rainbow Sprinkles: Because, well, why not!
Optional Decorations: Chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or even edible glitter for an extra touch of flair.
Prepare the Cake: Slice your cake base horizontally into three even layers. This will create the canvas for your rainbow.
Layer the Ice Cream: Spread the first ice cream flavor (red) evenly over the bottom layer of the cake. Place the second layer of cake on top and spread the second ice cream flavor (orange). Repeat this process with each color, layering the cake and ice cream until you reach the top layer. I find it helpful to work quickly to prevent the ice cream from melting too much.
Freeze: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the ice cream to firm up and the layers to meld together.
Frost and Decorate: Take the cake out of the freezer about 15 minutes before decorating. Frost the entire cake with the thawed whipped topping. Don't worry about making it perfect - a rustic look is charming!
Add the Rainbow: Generously sprinkle rainbow sprinkles over the top and sides of the cake. Get creative! Add chocolate shavings, fresh berries or any other decorative elements you desire.
Freeze Again (Briefly): Place the finished cake back in the freezer for about 30 minutes to allow the whipped topping to firm up before serving.
Slice, serve, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and colors of your rainbow ice cream cake!