Swirled Easter Cake Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Bake the perfect swirled Easter cake that’s both easy to make and delicious to taste. This delightful dessert captures the essence of spring with its vibrant colors and rich flavors, becoming a centerpiece at any Easter gathering.
Every spring, my family eagerly anticipates our traditional Easter gathering, where this swirled cake takes the spotlight. Passed down through generations, the recipe combines simplicity with a burst of flavor, making it a cherished family treasure.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This swirled Easter cake is not just visually stunning—it’s a breeze to make. The cake’s swirl effect is a fun twist that will impress your guests without adding complexity. It’s a versatile recipe, easily adapted for different holidays by changing the swirl colors to match the theme.
Ingredients Notes
Gathering quality ingredients is key to achieving the rich taste and vibrant colors of this cake. When choosing food coloring, opt for a gel variety to achieve bold hues. Consider using fresh vanilla extract for an authentic flavor. For easy substitutions, you can switch out butter for a dairy-free alternative to accommodate lactose intolerance.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of the cake later on.
Step 2
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process is crucial as it helps create a soft and airy cake texture.
Step 3
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
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Step 4
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
Step 5
Divide the batter into two bowls. Add different colors of gel food coloring to each portion, then swirl together in the pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Storage Options
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave at room temperature for a few hours, and reheat in a low oven for freshly baked warmth.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, substitute half the flour with almond flour and reduce sugar by replacing half with a natural sweetener like honey. For a festive Fourth of July version, use red and blue swirls with white frosting. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a spice cake variation that warms your palate.
Serving Suggestions
This swirled cake makes a perfect dessert for Easter brunch or as a standout finale at dinner. Pair it with coffee or a glass of chilled milk for a delightful experience. Add fresh berries and whipped cream on top for an extra festive touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare the batter in advance? Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking for the best results.
2. How do I make sure the cake is moist? Ensure that you do not overmix the batter and monitor your oven’s temperature closely. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, so check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off.
3. Can this recipe be made gluten-free? Certainly! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, and check all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free certified.

Swirled Easter Cake Recipe - Easy & Delicious
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 cup food coloring various colors
- 1 cup cream cheese for frosting
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
- Divide the batter into separate bowls and add desired food coloring to each bowl. Pour spoonfuls of each colored batter into the pan, creating a swirled effect.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Spread over the cooled cake.