Easy Layered Rainbow Jello Cake Recipe (2024)

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Imagine taking a bite of a cake that’s not just irresistibly delicious but also a feast for the eyes, with vibrant layers that seem to dance under the light. This Jello Cake Recipe is all that and more.

Easy Layered Rainbow Jello Cake Recipe (1)

Let’s talk about this Rainbow Jello Cake Recipe! This recipe has completely won over my heart and taste buds, haha!

It’s the perfect centerpiece for any celebration. Those colors catch the eye and bring a whole new level of festive feel to the gathering.

This Jello Cake is like a party waiting to happen, whether it’s for birthday bashes, family gatherings, or just a special treat to make any day feel like a festival.

What makes it even more fantastic is how simple it is to whip up. Yes, even if you’re baking for the first time or if you’re a pro looking for an easy dessert recipe that delivers in looks and flavor, this is it.

I don’t know about you, but I love it when I can make something special like this without all the hassle. Wow the crowd and do it in a snap, haha!

​On top of that, it’s really something special for the special people in your life. We made this for Lily’s birthday a while back and you should have seen her smile. Warms my heart just thinking about it.

Let’s dive into the world of fun and spread some joy! This rainbow jello cake recipe is one for the ages.

Some of our other favorite cake recipes we have on our site include: Cookie Butter Biscoff Cupcakes Recipe, How To Make a Smash Cake (Box Mix Tutorial), and Raspberry Poke Cake Recipe with Jello.

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WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:

  1. Beginner-friendly; even if it’s your first time in the kitchen, you’ll find it easy to follow.
  2. Customizable with any Jello flavor; cherry jello, strawberry gelatin, or even green jello – the choice is yours!
  3. It’s just plain fun; from mixing to assembling, it’s a baking adventure that brings smiles.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):

  • Box cake mix (white cake mix or yellow cake mix)
  • Jello (pick your favorite flavors, like strawberry jello for a strawberry jello poke cake recipe)
  • Whipped topping (cool whip works great here!)
  • Boiling water
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HOW TO MAKE RAINBOW JELLO CAKE RECIPE:

  1. Bake the cakes in 2 8-inch round baking pans according to the box directions.
  2. Allow the cakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Invert them onto a wire rack and cool completely.
  3. While the cake is cooling make the frosting, working with one color at a time. Add the first packet of jello to a large bowl with 1/2 cup of boiling water and whisk until dissolved. Repeat with the other 3 colors.
  4. Allow the mixtures to sit for 10 minutes to cool.
  5. Whisk 1 1/2 Cups of the whipped topping into each bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.
  6. With an electric hand mixer, whip the mixture until it breaks up.
  7. Add 1 1/2 cups more whipped topping and whip until smooth. There will still be a few lumps, but that’s okay. Repeat with the other colors.
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  1. To assemble, cut each layer of cake into two. Place the bottom of one layer onto your serving platter.
  2. Reserve about 1/4-1/3 cup of your first jello frosting and spread the rest onto the cake layer.
  3. And the other half of the cake layer on top. Repeat the frosting step with your next Jello color.
  4. Add the next layer, top side down. Frost with your 3rd color.
  5. Finally, add the last layer of cake on top, bottom side up. Add the remaining color of frosting.
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  1. To create the frosted ombre effect on the outside of the cake, you will dollop the remaining frosting over it.
  2. Take a bench scrapper or offset spatula and evenly smooth out the frosting around the outside of the cake.
  3. Place in the fridge for at least one hour to set, and serve.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:

WHAT FLAVOR JELLO SHOULD I USE?

The sky’s the limit with flavor of jello you use!

For a Rainbow Jello Cloud Cake, vibrant flavors like lemon or cherry jello are fantastic.

Strawberry gelatin is perfect for a strawberry jello cake twist.

CAN I USE HOMEMADE CAKE?

Definitely! Whether it’s a sponge cake, angel food cake, or any homemade cake, it’ll work beautifully.

It’s really about your preference here or the choice of the birthday kid!

DOES THIS HAVE TO BE REFRIGERATED?

Yes, pop it in the fridge to keep the layers perfect and the frosting just right.

It falls apart much easier when it all gets close to room temperature.

Trust me on this one. You will want to refrigerate this delicious cake.

ANY ADDITIONS?

You know it! This cake is all about customization. Feel free to check out this list and get your brain working.

  • Fresh strawberries or fresh berries for a burst of freshness
  • A dollop of homemade whipped cream on top for extra decadence
  • Sprinkles for a fun and festive look
  • Coconut flakes for a tropical twist
  • Lemon zest or chopped nuts for a flavor and texture boost
  • Mini marshmallows for a playful touch

ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?

I’ve got just a few ideas for you. It’s always great to have some options for substitution.

  • Substitute cool whip with dream whip for a lighter frosting.
  • Use a chocolate cake mix instead of white for a chocolatey version.
  • Swap boxed cake mix with a homemade mix for a more personalized cake.
  • Use vegetable oil as directed in the box mix for a moist cake.
  • Opt for egg whites only in the cake batter for a fluffier texture.
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HOW TO STORE:

Refrigerator:Keep it under wraps with plastic wrap in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer:Wrapped well with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, your cake can chill for 3 months.

DANA’S TIPS AND TRICKS:

  • Let the Cake Cool Completely: Ensure your cake is room temperature before the Jello mixture goes on.
  • Even Frosting Layers: Keep those layers smooth for the most visually appealing slice.
  • Chill to Perfection: A few hours in the fridge makes slicing a breeze.
  • Mix and Match Flavors: Be bold with your Jello choices for a truly unique cake.
  • Garnish Galore: Top your cake with fresh strawberries, fresh berries, or even a sprinkle of your favorite toppings for that extra special touch.
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This Rainbow Jello Cloud Cake is an experience that everyone should have at least once.

From its eye-catching layers to its mouthwatering flavors, it’s the perfect way to bring joy and color to your table. It’s an easy recipe that brings the best results, making it the perfect dessert for any and all occasions.

So, grab your box mix, favorite jello flavors, and let’s create something beautiful and delicious. Happy baking, and here’s to making memories with every slice!

If you like this recipe, you might also like:

If you’ve tried this JELLO CAKE RECIPE, let me know how it turned out in the comments! You can follow me over on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM OR FACEBOOK to find some more of our mouthwatering recipes!

Easy Layered Rainbow Jello Cake Recipe (11)

Rate this Recipe

Easy Layered Rainbow Jello Cake Recipe

5 from 7 votes

Course Dessert

Servings 12 servings

Imagine taking a bite of a cake that’s not just irresistibly delicious but also a feast for the eyes, with vibrant layers that seem to dance under the light. This Jello Cake Recipe is all that and more.

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Ingredients

Jello Frosting

Instructions

  • Bake the cakes in 2 8-inch round baking pans according to the box directions.

    1 box white cake mix

  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Invert them onto a wire rack and cool completely.

  • While the cake is cooling make the frosting, working with one color at a time. Add the first packet of jello to a large bowl with 1/2 cup of boiling water and whisk until dissolved. Repeat with the other 3 colors.

    4 – 3 ounce boxes jello, any flavors, 2 Cups boiling water

  • Allow the mixtures to sit for 10 minutes to cool.

  • Whisk 1 1/2 Cups of the whipped topping into each bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.

    32 ounces whipped topping

  • With an electric hand mixer, whip the mixture until it breaks up.

  • Add 1 1/2 cups more whipped topping and whip until smooth. There will still be a few lumps, but that’s okay. Repeat with the other colors.

  • To assemble, cut each layer of cake into two. Place the bottom of one layer onto your serving platter.

  • Reserve about 1/4-1/3 cup of your first jello frosting and spread the rest onto the cake layer.

  • And the other half of the cake layer on top. Repeat the frosting step with your next Jello color.

  • Add the next layer, top side down. Frost with your 3rd color.

  • Finally, add the last layer of cake on top, bottom side up. Add the remaining color of frosting.

  • To create the frosted ombre effect on the outside of the cake, you will dollop the remaining frosting over it.

  • Take a bench scrapper or offset spatula and evenly smooth out the frosting around the outside of the cake.

  • Place in the fridge for at least one hour to set, and serve.

Notes

  • Let the Cake Cool Completely: Ensure your cake is room temperature before the Jello mixture goes on.
  • Even Frosting Layers: Keep those layers smooth for the most visually appealing slice.
  • Chill to Perfection: A few hours in the fridge makes slicing a breeze.
  • Mix and Match Flavors: Be bold with your Jello choices for a truly unique cake.
  • Garnish Galore: Top your cake with fresh strawberries, fresh berries, or even a sprinkle of your favorite toppings for that extra special touch.

Nutrition

Calories: 366kcal | Carbohydrates: 61g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 399mg | Potassium: 104mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 44g | Vitamin A: 56IU | Calcium: 149mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional Disclaimer

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Easy Layered Rainbow Jello Cake Recipe (2024)
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