Dive into the delightful world of ombre baking with this stunning Purple Ombre Layer Cake. Perfect for any celebration, this cake features a light and fluffy coconut cake base paired with a vibrant maqui berry ombre frosting that transitions beautifully from deep purple to snowy white. This visually striking cake not only tastes divine but also serves as a show-stopping centerpiece for any dessert table.
Ingredients
Coconut Cake Base:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 egg whites
- 1 1/3 cups coconut milk
- 2 tsp coconut extract
Maqui Berry Ombre Frosting:
- 4 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
- 5 cups confectioner’s sugar
- 2 tsp coconut extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1-2 tbsp coconut cream
- Purple maqui berry powder or gel paste food coloring
Directions
- Prepare the Coconut Cake Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your cake pans with non-stick spray and parchment paper.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Gradually beat in egg whites and coconut extract. Alternately add dry ingredients and coconut milk, starting and ending with flour.
- Tint the Batter:
- Divide the batter, keeping one plain. Gradually add food coloring to create shades of purple.
- Bake the Layers:
- Pour colored batters into cake pans. Bake 15-18 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Make the Frosting:
- Beat butter until creamy. Gradually mix in sugar, coconut extract, salt, and coconut cream. Tint with food coloring.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Start with the darkest layer and apply frosting. Stack layers by color intensity. Chill briefly after a crumb coat.
- Decorative Finishes:
- Apply the final coat of frosting to blend shades. Decorate with white frosting swirls on top.
Tips
- Infuse coconut milk with vanilla for an aromatic touch.
- Ensure the top layer remains as white as possible.
- Keep the cake refrigerated until 30 minutes before serving for best frosting structure.
FAQs
- Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk? Yes, but coconut milk adds a unique flavor and richness ideal for this recipe.
- What can I use if I don’t have maqui berry powder? Regular food coloring can work, but adjust the quantity as it might be stronger.
- How long can this cake be stored? Properly covered, it can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Prep Time
- 30 minutes
Cook Time
- 18 minutes per layer
Total Time
- About 2 hours, including decoration
Yield
- Serves 12
Category
- Dessert
Method
- Baking
Cuisine
- American
Diet
- Vegetarian
Conclusion
The Purple Ombre Layer Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Its ethereal gradient of purples crowned with a luscious coconut flavor makes it an unforgettable dessert that promises to impress at any gathering. Whether for a birthday, anniversary, or just a special treat, this cake delivers both beauty and taste in each slice.