I try not to fixate. I try not to stare. I think it is rude, time-consuming and takes to much energy. Then again I am a bit fixated on my kids and that is totally worth it.
However, I have been fixated, have been staring and have maybe, just maybe, spent too much time thinking about: this beautiful board I created on Pinterest:
Because I could not get rainbows out of my mind, I decided to start trying some techniques in preparation for Valentine’s Day. Since I knew it would take a few attempts to get my rainbows just right, I grabbed a boxed cake and icing mix from Trader Joe’s and set to work.
My first try last week resulted in what I call ‘scary psychedelic’ rainbows although the kids I shared them with did not seemed scared or traumatized in any way. Phew.
I went at it again yesterday and made both heart shaped cupcakes and a large heart shaped cake. I used India Tree natural food coloring and one drop of regular food coloring but only because I wanted to make sure the colors were a bit brighter for these photos. When you use the natural food coloring, be sure to use a good amount so you get a nice pastel color.
Another picture because truth be told, you need more of them….
Snap out of it cause here comes the recipe:
Rainbow Heart Cupcakes
Ingredients:
1 box of quality white cake mix
1 box of quality icing
India Tree Natural Food Coloring
Whatever else the boxes above require
Wilton silicone heart cupcake molds
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven. Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box.
2. Separate the cake batter into 4 bowls and add 6 drops of one food coloring to one bowl. Switch colors and repeat in a separate bowl.
3. Mix well and set aside for 5 minutes. Decide if you want to add more color to each bowl.
4. Layer the batter gently, one color at a time into each mold.
5. Bake as directed. Prepare the icing.
6. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely, apply icing and sprinkles/nonpareils.
How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day?
Jennifer Clay says
These cupcakes are so pretty! My girls love cupcakes but I know they would go crazy over rainbow cupcakes.
Kristin says
Very cute. I love that these would easily translate to anytime yummy and colorful treats.
Alli @ Cupcake Diaries says
These are so much fun!
Rebecca E. Parsons says
I have always wanted to try rainbow cakes. My hubby loves them. Looks like I have a plan now! Thanks for sharing. Off to check out the rainbow food board!!
Andrea @ Momma in Flip Flops says
Those not only look delicious, but are super cute. All my kiddo’s would love these. I was going to make brownies, but now I think I may have to do these.
Kara says
So cute! Rainbows always make me smile, so I’m sure I’d love eating one!
Amberly says
These are so bright and cheery!! 🙂
Alexis says
So so cute!
NYC Single Mom says
we love cupcakes but havent tried the layered color versions. Will have to plan as a project for the winter break.
Dmarie says
oh, how cute!!
Jennifer @ Peanut Butter and Peppers says
These cupcakes are adorable! I love the different colors in them!!
Sammi Richardson says
Hi,
Wow! This cupcake recipe sounds delicious and it’s very cute too! I’m a big fan of any sweet desserts. I work for Kamut International. I bet these recipes would be equally as tasty if made with Kamut wheat flour too! Yum!
Thanks for sharing!
http://www.kamut.com
Robyn Stone | Add a Pinch says
Cute cupcakes, Jennifer! I’m off to check out your rainbow board. How fun!