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Rainbow Cupcakes

These Rainbow Cupcakes are a delightful treat bursting with vibrant colors and fluffy, tender cake layers. Perfect for celebrations, kids' parties, or just when you need a little cheer, these cupcakes combine classic vanilla flavor with a rainbow twist.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 18

Ingredients
  

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar divided
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • Rainbow food colorings red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line 18 muffin cups with paper liners.
  • Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt three times. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
  • In another bowl, cream butter until fluffy, 2-3 minutes. Gradually add remaining 1 cup sugar and beat until light and airy.
  • Add dry ingredients alternately with milk in small amounts, beating after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
  • Gently fold in beaten egg whites until fully incorporated.
  • Divide batter evenly into 6 bowls. Add a different food coloring to each bowl, mixing until color is uniform.
  • Spoon the first colored batter into each cupcake liner, spreading evenly. Repeat with remaining colors, layering carefully.
  • Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Cool slightly in pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Use gel food coloring for more vibrant hues without adding too much liquid.
  • Avoid overmixing after adding colors to maintain a fluffy texture.
  • Pair with a simple vanilla frosting to keep the focus on the colorful layers.