Rainbow cupcakes are so easy to make! This colorful dessert is always the hit of the party! Perfect for St. Patrick's Day, birthdays, or any occasion!

rainbow colored cupcake topped with vanilla frosting and sprinkles

I originally published this recipe way back in 2013 and thought it was about time to update it six years later with some significantly better photography and share it again.

These rainbow cupcakes are one of those super easy desserts that make a big impact. Every time I make these I get so many compliments! Little do they know that I "cheat" and use boxed mix and premade frosting for this rainbow cupcake recipe!

cupcake batter in glass bowl with mixer nearby

How to Make Rainbow Cupcakes

Using a boxed mix makes these treats soooo easy! Simply prep a normal box of white cake mix and divide the batter into six separate bowls.

If you want to make the mix taste more homemade I recommend adding an extra egg, a package of vanilla instant pudding mix, and ⅓ cup of vegetable oil in addition to the ingredients on the box. (More about how to hack a cake mix here.)

colored cupcake batter in bowls with spoons

Use gel food coloring to color the batter without affecting the taste. I recommend this brand of gel food coloring because it has the brightest colors and won't thin the batter. I used red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple but you can use any combination you can come up with!

overhead view of muffin pan with liners and purple cupcake batter in the bottom of each liner

After preparing the batter, spoon it in layers into a muffin pan lined with liners.

adding blue batter to rainbow cupcakes in muffin pan

I start with purple then work my way up the rainbow but you can add the batter in whatever order you prefer.

Once you've added all of your colored batters, cook the rainbow cupcakes according to the box instructions. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.

overhead view of colorful rainbow cupcakes with white frosting and sprinkles on cooling rack

You can use any kind of frosting to top off these cupcakes. They are delicious with a cream cheese frosting, or you can hack a store bought frosting to top it off.

I like to add 8 ounces of cream cheese OR a container of cool whip to the store-bought icing and then whip it up in the large bowl on my stand mixer (affiliate link). It will fluff up and taste amazing with no need to start from scratch!

And of course, rainbow sprinkles are a must for the cupcakes too!

Storage

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

You can freeze the cupcakes before frosting for up to 3 months in a freezer bag or freezer-safe container (affiliate link).

A close up of a rainbow cupcake topped with white icing and sprinkles on white plate

Aren't they the best?? No one will ever guess just how easy these rainbow cupcakes are! They are perfect for St. Patrick's Day, birthday parties, or just anytime you want a simple, special treat.

If you try this recipe please comment and rate it below, I love hearing from you!