Name: Striped Christmas Cake That Will Dazzle Your Holiday Table
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 3 cups vanilla cake batter (This forms the base of our Striped Christmas Cake, offering a light and fluffy texture.); 1 tsp red food coloring (Use gel food coloring for a vibrant red hue.); 1 tsp green food coloring (Gel food coloring is recommended for rich, festive green layers.); 1 cup unsalted butter (Ensure the butter is softened for easy mixing.); 4 cups powdered sugar (Adjust quantity as needed for consistency.); 1 cup heavy cream (A splash of cream will help achieve a luscious, spreadable texture.); 1 cup festive sprinkles (Top with colorful sprinkles to enhance the holiday spirit!)

As I was decorating my holiday table, a beautifully striped cake caught my eye, evoking memories of cheerful family gatherings. This Festive Striped Christmas Cake, with its vibrant red and green layers and luscious buttercream frosting, is more than just a dessert; it’s a joyful centerpiece destined to brighten your festive celebrations. Not only does this recipe make a stunning visual impact, but it also boasts a moist, classic vanilla flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Quick to assemble and endlessly customizable, you can whip it up in no time. So, are you ready to impress your loved ones with a slice of holiday magic? Let’s dive into this delightful creation!

Why is this cake a holiday showstopper?

Show-stopping design: The vibrant red and green layers make this Striped Christmas Cake a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table.
Moist vanilla layers: Each slice is a delightful surprise with its fluffy, moist interior that complements the sweet buttercream frosting perfectly.
Quick assembly: In just a few simple steps, you can create this festive masterpiece, saving you valuable time amidst the holiday hustle.
Customizable flavors: Experiment with different colors or flavors, like chocolate cake batter or almond extract, to make it uniquely yours.
Crowd-pleasing treat: This cake is sure to invite smiles and compliments from friends and family, making it the perfect dessert for gatherings or celebrations.
For more inspiration, check out my Coconut Cake Cheese or Tres Leches Cake recipes!

Striped Christmas Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Layers

Vanilla cake batter – This forms the base of our Striped Christmas Cake, offering a light and fluffy texture.
Red food coloring – Use gel food coloring for a vibrant red hue that stands out beautifully in each slice.
Green food coloring – Gel food coloring is also recommended here for rich, festive green layers.

For the Buttercream Frosting

Unsalted butter – Ensure the butter is softened for easy mixing and a smooth texture in the frosting.
Powdered sugar – This sweet ingredient not only adds sweetness but also thickens your frosting; adjust quantity as needed for consistency.
Heavy cream – A splash of cream will help achieve that luscious, spreadable texture for your frosting.

For Decoration

Festive sprinkles – Top with colorful sprinkles to add a joyful touch to your Striped Christmas Cake and enhance the holiday spirit!

With these delightful ingredients, your holiday baking is bound to create cherished memories around the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Striped Christmas Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In the meantime, grab four 7-inch cake pans and grease them thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal. This preparation will ensure that when you bake your Striped Christmas Cake layers, they come out perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, prepare your vanilla layer cake batter using your favorite recipe or a store-bought mix. Once mixed, divide the batter into three equal parts. Color one portion with red gel food coloring for a vibrant layer, and one with green, leaving the final part uncolored. This split will create the festive layers that define your Striped Christmas Cake.

Step 3: Layer the Batter
To create distinct layers, spoon the batters into each prepared pan in a methodical, alternating fashion—start with a scoop of green, followed by red, and finally the uncolored batter. Continue this layering until the pans are filled to about two-thirds capacity. Gently tilt the pans to help stabilize the batter and ensure an even distribution for a beautiful striped effect.

Step 4: Bake the Layers
Place the pans in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cakes are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes and then transfer them to the freezer for about 45 minutes to expedite the cooling process.

Step 5: Trim and Level
After the cake layers are completely cooled, carefully remove them from the freezer. Use a serrated knife to trim any browned edges and level the tops of the cakes if needed. This step is crucial for stacking the layers evenly when assembling your Striped Christmas Cake.

Step 6: Prepare Buttercream Frosting
While the layers cool, prepare your American buttercream frosting. In a large bowl, beat softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and a splash of heavy cream until you reach the desired consistency for spreading. Aim for a light and airy texture perfect for frosting your cake.

Step 7: Assemble and Crumb Coat
Stack the cooled cake layers starting with the uncolored layer first. Spread a thin layer of buttercream frosting between each layer to bind them together. Once stacked, apply a crumb coat—this is a light layer of frosting around the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Chill the cake in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set this layer before applying the final frosting.

Step 8: Final Frosting and Decoration
Retrieve the cake from the fridge and apply a thicker layer of buttercream frosting using a bench scraper to smooth the sides. To create festive decorative touches, tint your remaining buttercream with more food coloring if desired, then use piping bags to create vertical stripes or swirls on the cake. Finish it off by sprinkling festive sprinkles on top to make your Striped Christmas Cake truly shine.

What to Serve with Striped Christmas Cake

The perfect holiday gathering deserves a feast of flavors; let’s create a delightful spread to elevate your festive cake experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes add a comforting, smooth texture that harmonizes beautifully with the vibrant layers of the cake.
Glazed Carrots: Sweet and slightly tangy, these colorful veggies create a pleasant balance to the richness of the cake. Their bright color mimics the festive spirit!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender within, these greens offer a savory contrast to the sweet cake, creating a sophisticated flavor profile.
Herbed Stuffing: This comforting dish, filled with aromatic herbs, provides a warm, earthy contrast to the sweetness of the Striped Christmas Cake, enhancing your holiday meal.
Mulled Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider brings cozy vibes and a holiday aroma that pairs perfectly with a cake filled with cheerful flavors.
Chocolate Peppermint Bark: For dessert lovers, this sweet treat adds a festive flair and chocolatey goodness to your table, rounding off an indulgent meal.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic companion! The creamy texture and coolness of vanilla ice cream complement the richness of the cake while offering a refreshing indulgence.

Expert Tips for Striped Christmas Cake

Cool Layers Fully: Ensure each cake layer is completely cooled before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and maintains your cake’s beautiful striped design.

Trim Edges Wisely: Use a serrated knife to carefully trim the browned edges of your cake layers for a perfectly even stack. This is crucial for a well-balanced Striped Christmas Cake.

Correct Frosting Consistency: Adjust your buttercream consistency as needed by adding powdered sugar for thickness or cream for a lighter texture. A smooth frosting is key for a professional look.

Test Piping Techniques: Practice piping your designs on parchment paper before decorating the cake. This will give you confidence and help create beautiful vertical stripes and swirls.

Customize Flavors: Don’t hesitate to explore different flavors, like almond extract or chocolate layers. This adds a unique twist to your festive Striped Christmas Cake that everyone will love!

Striped Christmas Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and add your personal touch to this delightful cake!

Chocolate Layer Cake: Swap the vanilla cake batter with chocolate for a richer flavor that pairs beautifully with buttercream.
Almond Extract: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract to infuse the cake with a delightful nutty aroma, elevating the flavor profile.
Whipped Cream Frosting: For a lighter option, substitute buttercream with whipped cream frosting, adding a fluffy texture and velvety finish.
Coconut Flakes: Incorporate shredded coconut into the cake batter or as a topping for a tropical twist that enhances the festive vibe.
Fruit Fillings: Add layers of fruit preserves like raspberry or blueberry between the cake layers for a burst of flavor that complements the sweetness.
Color Variations: Experiment with different colors for layering, such as purple and gold, for a more unique color scheme!
Spices: Enhance the vanilla batter by adding warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, giving your cake a cozy winter flavor.
mini-version: Try creating mini striped cupcakes using the same layering and decoration techniques, making them perfect for gatherings and easy to serve!

If you’re in need of dessert inspiration, check out my delightful Coffee Caramel Cake or the unique Basque Cheesecake Indulgence for a delicious twist!

How to Store and Freeze Striped Christmas Cake

Room Temperature: Store your Striped Christmas Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days; this keeps the moisture intact while making it easily accessible.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, refrigerate the cake for up to a week in an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness while the flavors meld beautifully.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy chilled slices, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Make Ahead Options

This Striped Christmas Cake is a fantastic candidate for meal prep, allowing you to save time during the holiday rush! You can bake and freeze the cake layers for up to 3 days—simply wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. The buttercream frosting can also be made up to 2 days in advance; just refrigerate it, and before frosting, bring it back to room temperature and re-whip for the best texture. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble and frost the cake as per the recipe instructions—it will be just as delicious, saving you precious time while still dazzling your holiday guests!

Striped Christmas Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right food coloring for my cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using gel food coloring, as it provides vibrant and rich hues without altering the cake’s texture. Liquid food coloring can dilute the batter, so stick with gel for those striking red and green layers.

How should I store the Striped Christmas Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, cover it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers or want to prolong its life, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week. The cake becomes even more flavorful as it sits, making it a delightful treat for days!

Can I freeze the Striped Christmas Cake?
Yes, you can! Once the cake is completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

What should I do if my cake layers come out uneven?
Very! If your cake layers aren’t perfectly even, don’t fret! Use a serrated knife to carefully level off the tops and trim any browned edges. This ensures a neat stack when assembling your Striped Christmas Cake. Remember, a little patience goes a long way in achieving that perfect look!

Is this cake safe for pets or people with allergies?
Great question! This Striped Christmas Cake contains common allergens like wheat, dairy, and eggs, so it isn’t suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. Always check with your guests if they have dietary restrictions, and you can also experiment with alternatives to accommodate different needs.