This Rainbow Cake Trifle is a showstopping dessert made with layers of colorful cake crumbs and a rich, fluffy cream cheese Cool Whip filling.
It’s vibrant, fun to assemble, and perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or holidays like Easter and Pride Month.
Whether you layer it in a trifle bowl or mason jars, it’s guaranteed to wow.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fun and festive – Bright layers of cake make it eye-catching
Easy to customize – Choose any color combo you like
No decorating skills needed – Just layer and chill
Feeds a crowd – Great for parties and potlucks
Make ahead friendly – Even better the next day
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
White cake mix – Use two boxes for a full batch of layers
Food coloring – Red, yellow, blue, and green to create vibrant hues
Whipped cream cheese – Adds a tangy richness
Sweetened condensed milk – For a silky smooth texture
Cool Whip – Lightens the cream filling and keeps it fluffy
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use gel food coloring – For bold, bright color without thinning the batter
Don’t overbake – Keep the cake layers moist for the best texture
Let cakes cool completely – Crumbling is easier when cool
Reserve some crumbs – For a decorative topping
Chill before serving – Helps the layers set and flavors meld
How to Make Rainbow Cake Trifle
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Make 2 white cake mixes according to box directions.
Step 2: Divide and Color
Split batter into 4 bowls:
Purple: 6 drops red + 5 drops blue
Yellow: 5 drops yellow
Pink: 6 drops red + 1 drop blue
Blue: 4 drops blue + 2 drops green
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Bake each color in an 8-inch round cake pan at 350°F for 23–25 minutes.
Let cakes cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Cream Layer
In a bowl, mix 8 oz whipped cream cheese, 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, and 12 oz Cool Whip until smooth.
Step 5: Crumble the Cakes
Crumble cooled cake layers into chunks, reserving ¼ cup of each color for topping.
Step 6: Assemble the Trifle
In a trifle dish or glass bowl, layer cake crumbs and cream mixture, alternating colors. Suggested order: purple, yellow, pink, blue.
Step 7: Finish and Chill
Top with reserved cake crumbs. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serving Ideas
Serve in individual cups – For easy party portions
Top with sprinkles or whipped cream – For extra flair
Pair with fresh fruit – Strawberries or blueberries for contrast
Add a drizzle of white chocolate – For a decadent twist
Variations / Substitutions
Use homemade cake – If you prefer from-scratch
Switch up colors – Try red, white, and blue for patriotic holidays
Add fruit layers – Between the cream for more texture
Make it dairy-free – Use vegan whipped topping and non-dairy cream cheese
Add flavor – A little almond or vanilla extract boosts the cake base
Storage Tips
Refrigerator – Store covered for up to 3 days
Do not freeze – The texture of whipped topping changes when frozen
Make ahead – Assemble a few hours before your event and chill until serving
FAQs
Can I use other food coloring brands?
Yes—just use gel-based colors for vibrancy without thinning the batter.
Do I have to use Cool Whip?
Cool Whip gives the best texture, but stabilized whipped cream works as a substitute.
Can I bake all colors at once?
Yes, if you have enough cake pans and oven space.
Can I serve this in mason jars?
Absolutely! Great for parties and grab-and-go desserts.
Is this good for kids?
Yes—kids love the colors and fun layers. It’s also fun for them to help assemble.
Final Thoughts
This Rainbow Cake Trifle is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert.
Bright, beautiful, and no-fuss, it layers together cake and cream in a way that looks impressive but couldn’t be easier.
Make it once, and you’ll find yourself bringing it to every party!
