15 Layer Cake Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Layer cakes are a delightful way to celebrate any occasion, big or small. These multi-tiered treats are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor.

From classic chocolate and vanilla to more unique options, there’s a layer cake recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Baking a layer cake can be a fun project for both new and experienced bakers. Whether you’re preparing for a birthday party, wedding, or just a cozy dessert at home, you can impress everyone with your cake-making skills.

With the right recipes, you’ll create a delicious dessert that everyone will love.

1) Triple Chocolate Layer Cake

You will love making a triple chocolate layer cake. It is a rich and delicious treat, perfect for any chocolate lover. This cake features three layers of chocolate goodness, each bite bringing you bliss.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare your cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottom with parchment paper.

For the cake, mix flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and baking powder in a large bowl. Then, add eggs, milk, and melted butter for a smooth batter.

Divide it evenly between the prepared pans and bake until set.

Let the cakes cool completely before frosting. Use your favorite chocolate frosting to layer between and on top of the cakes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup melted butter
• 3 large eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Grease two cake pans and line with parchment paper.
3. Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl.
4. Add eggs, milk, and melted butter, then stir.
5. Pour the batter into the pans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
7. Cool the cakes before frosting.

2) Lemon Ricotta Cake

Lemon Ricotta Cake is a delightful choice for any occasion. Its light and moist texture comes from the ricotta cheese. You will enjoy the bright lemon flavor that makes this cake refreshing and delicious.

To make this cake, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need to cream butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one by one. Incorporating the ricotta cheese and lemon zest adds a nice touch.

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light lemon glaze. It’s perfect for a spring gathering or as a sweet treat after dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
4. Stir in the ricotta cheese and lemon zest.
5. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
7. Pour the batter into a greased cake pan.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden and set.

3) Classic Red Velvet with Cream Cheese Frosting

Classic red velvet cake is a delightfully moist treat. Its deep red color comes from cocoa powder and red food dye. This cake pairs perfectly with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting.

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line your cake pans to ensure easy removal after baking.

Mix together the dry ingredients, including cake flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda. In a separate bowl, combine wet ingredients like buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes. Let the cakes cool before frosting.

For the cream cheese frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla for sweetness. Spread it generously between the layers and on the top and sides.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cake flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Grease and line your cake pans.
3. In a bowl, mix cake flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In another bowl, combine oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla.
5. Mix wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
6. Add red food coloring and mix well.
7. Pour batter into pans and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Let cakes cool before frosting.
9. To make frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
10. Add powdered sugar and vanilla to the frosting.
11. Frost the cake layers and enjoy!

4) Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

Carrot cake is a delightful treat that many enjoy. It combines moist cake with shredded carrots for a unique flavor. Topped with creamy cream cheese icing, it’s simply irresistible.

To make this cake, you’ll want to gather your ingredients first. The combination of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth. Once baked, the cake is layered with a smooth cream cheese frosting.

This cake not only looks great on a platter, but it also tastes amazing. Whether it’s for a birthday or just a cozy dessert night, carrot cake with cream cheese icing is a fantastic choice.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 cup butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, oil, and grated carrots.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Mix well.
5. Pour the batter into greased cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
6. For the icing, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla.
7. Once the cakes cool, layer and frost with cream cheese icing. Enjoy!

5) Mocha Hazelnut Layer Cake

The Mocha Hazelnut Layer Cake is perfect for chocolate lovers. It’s a rich dessert made with dark, moist chocolate cake and hazelnut buttercream frosting. The addition of coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, creating a delightful experience.

To make this cake, you will layer the chocolate cake with creamy hazelnut frosting. This gives each bite a nutty sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. You’ll love how the flavors blend together.

Ingredients

• 3 oz unsweetened chocolate
• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1-1/4 cups packed brown sugar
• 1 cup white sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2-1/4 cups flour
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Grease and flour your cake pans.
3. Melt the unsweetened chocolate.
4. Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well.
6. Stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract.
7. Combine flour and espresso powder, then add to the wet mixture.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pans.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Allow cakes to cool before frosting with hazelnut buttercream.

6) Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

You will love making a delightful Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake. This cake features a light vanilla sponge soaked in strawberry simple syrup. Fresh strawberries and whipped cream create a delicious filling between the cake layers.

Start by baking your sponge cakes. Allow them to cool before soaking with the strawberry syrup. Layer the cakes with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a beautiful and tasty treat.

This cake is perfect for summer celebrations. You can even make it in two or three layers for extra fun. Enjoy every slice!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Fresh strawberries for topping
• Whipped cream

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Grease and flour your cake pans.
3. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add butter, eggs, and milk. Beat well.
5. Pour batter into pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
6. Let cakes cool completely.
7. Soak cakes with strawberry syrup.
8. Layer cakes with strawberries and whipped cream.
9. Chill before serving.

7) Pineapple Coconut Layer Cake

Pineapple Coconut Layer Cake is a delicious dessert that combines tropical flavors. The cake is moist and fluffy, perfect for any celebration.

To start, you will need to prepare two cake layers. Use butter, flour, and coconut milk to create a rich flavor. The addition of pineapple gives it a refreshing twist.

Once baked, let the layers cool before frosting. A mix of cream cheese and buttercream frosting adds sweetness and creaminess. Sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for extra texture.

This cake is sure to impress at your next gathering. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the tastes of summer any time of the year.

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup crushed pineapple
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup toasted coconut

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
3. Mix flour and sugar in a bowl.
4. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar, then add eggs.
5. Mix in coconut milk and crushed pineapple.
6. Combine with the dry ingredients.
7. Pour into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
8. Let cakes cool before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
9. Top with toasted coconut.

8) Black Forest Cake

Black Forest Cake is a delicious treat that combines chocolate cake, cherries, and whipped cream. It’s perfect for any celebration or just a special dessert at home.

To start, bake two layers of chocolate cake. After they cool, slice each layer to create a total of four thin layers. This makes it easier to add your filling and frosting.

Next, layer your whipped cream, cherry filling, and cake layers. Don’t forget to soak the cakes with cherry syrup for added moisture and flavor. Finish by decorating the top with more whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 jar of cherries (in syrup)
• Whipped cream

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
3. Mix flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
4. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla; mix well.
5. Stir in boiling water until combined.
6. Pour into pans and bake for 30-35 minutes.
7. Let cakes cool completely, then slice each in half.
8. Assemble with layers of whipped cream and cherries between each layer.

9) Orange Blossom Layer Cake

The Orange Blossom Layer Cake is a delightful treat that brings a fresh citrus flavor to your dessert table. It has a light and fluffy texture, making it perfect for any occasion.

To start, you will need to gather your ingredients. Orange juice and orange blossom water add a unique flavor. Pair it with a creamy frosting to enhance the taste.

Bake the cake layers at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 40 minutes. Allow them to cool completely before assembling.

Once cooled, drizzle orange syrup between the layers for added moisture and flavor. Spread frosting on top and around the sides to finish it off.

You’re ready to enjoy a slice of this beautiful cake!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 eggs
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
• ½ cup orange juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and prepare cake pans with parchment paper.
3. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
4. In another bowl, whisk milk, oil, eggs, and orange blossom water.
5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients.
6. Pour batter into prepared pans.
7. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes.
8. Cool completely before frosting.
9. Assemble with syrup and frosting as desired.

10) Tiramisu Layer Cake

The Tiramisu Layer Cake combines the classic flavors of traditional tiramisu with a delicious cake structure. You’ll love the layers of coffee-soaked cake and creamy mascarpone filling.

Start by making a sponge cake. You will soak it in coffee syrup to give it that signature flavor. Each layer is then filled with rich mascarpone frosting, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.

For a beautiful finish, dust the top with cocoa powder. This adds a delightful touch and enhances the dessert’s elegance. It’s perfect for celebrations or just a special treat at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Cocoa powder for dusting

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
2. Prepare two 8-inch round cake pans.
3. Make the sponge cake batter and bake.
4. Cool the cakes and soak them with coffee syrup.
5. Layer with mascarpone filling and repeat.
6. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

11) Funfetti Birthday Cake

A Funfetti Birthday Cake is a colorful and cheerful treat for any celebration. The vanilla cake is fluffy and filled with vibrant rainbow sprinkles. Each slice is a fun surprise!

To make the cake, you will need to layer moist cake with creamy frosting. Feel free to add extra sprinkles on top for a festive touch. Your guests will love the delightful look and taste!

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup rainbow sprinkles
• 4 cups frosting

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
6. Mix in vanilla and milk.
7. Gradually add dry ingredients.
8. Fold in rainbow sprinkles.
9. Divide batter into pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
10. Let cool, then frost between layers and on top.

12) Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake

If you love rich flavors, this Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake is for you. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter makes a delightful treat. You’ll enjoy the moist layers paired with creamy frosting.

First, gather your ingredients. Make sure you have everything ready before you start baking. It helps to have your oven preheated to 350°F (176°C).

This cake uses simple ingredients like flour, sugar, cocoa powder, butter, and peanut butter. Mix them well for a smooth batter. Then, bake in prepared cake pans until they spring back when touched.

Once cooled, frost with peanut butter frosting for extra creaminess. You can top it off with chocolate ganache for an added touch. Enjoy your tasty homemade cake!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• ¾ cup cocoa powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tsp baking powder

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
2. Prepare cake pans with non-stick spray.
3. In a bowl, mix all dry ingredients.
4. In another bowl, cream butter and peanut butter.
5. Add sugar, eggs, and milk. Blend well.
6. Combine both mixtures and pour into pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
8. Let cakes cool before frosting.

13) Mango Passionfruit Layer Cake

This Mango Passionfruit Layer Cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. It combines the tropical flavors of mango and passionfruit for a refreshing dessert. The cake has a moist texture with layers of fruit-infused goodness.

You will start with a light and fluffy vanilla cake base. Each layer is enhanced with passionfruit curd, adding a tangy taste. Top it off with creamy mango mousse for an extra burst of flavor.

This cake is perfect for spring and summer celebrations. It’s sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup milk
• 4 eggs
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup passionfruit curd
• 1 cup mango puree

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour your cake pans.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and baking powder.
4. Add butter and milk, then beat well.
5. Incorporate eggs one at a time.
6. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
7. Let the cakes cool, then layer with passionfruit curd and mango puree.

14) Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake

This Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake is a delicious treat that combines rich chocolate with sweet, salty caramel. It has moist layers that are perfect for any celebration.

To assemble the cake, start by placing one layer on a serving platter. Spread 3/4 cup of caramel over the top. Add another cake layer and repeat this process. Leave the top layer bare for a lovely finish.

After assembling, refrigerate the cake for about one hour. This helps the caramel set and makes it easier to serve.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• Fleur de sel (or sea salt) for topping

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour your cake pans.
3. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
5. Stir in boiling water until combined.
6. Divide batter into cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes.
7. Cool the cakes for 10 minutes, then remove from pans.
8. Once cool, layer with caramel sauce and refrigerate for an hour before serving.

15) Vanilla Bean Layer Cake

Making a Vanilla Bean Layer Cake is a treat you’ll love. This cake is rich and full of flavor, thanks to real vanilla beans. It bakes up light and fluffy, making it perfect for any celebration.

You can easily customize this cake by adding layers of your favorite fillings. Try vanilla buttercream or fresh fruit between the layers for added taste.

Bake the cake at 350°F (175°C) for about 34-40 minutes. Make sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center.

Ingredients

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 10 ounces unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• 8 large egg whites

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour the cake pans.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
5. Gradually add egg whites, mixing well.
6. Add vanilla bean paste, then mix in the dry ingredients.
7. Pour the batter into the pans and bake for 34-40 minutes.
8. Cool the cakes in the pans before transferring them to a wire rack.