10 Rainbow-Themed St. Patrick’s Day Desserts to Wow the Crowd

Did you know that more than 13 million pints of Guinness are consumed on St. Patrick’s Day every year? This festive occasion is not just about the drinks, but also about indulging in delightful treats! In this post, we’ll explore 10 rainbow-themed St. Patrick’s Day desserts that will surely wow the crowd at your celebration. From vibrant rainbow cake pops to the enchanting emerald isle trifle, get ready to sweeten your St. Paddy’s Day festivities with these deliciously creative desserts!

Lucky Rainbow Cake Pops

This Lucky Rainbow Cake Pops recipe combines vibrant colors with delicious vanilla and chocolate flavors, making it a fun and delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 box vanilla cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup vanilla frosting
• 12 oz melting chocolate or candy melts
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for thinning chocolate)
• Sprinkles (for decoration)
• 20 lollipop sticks
• Colored gel food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a cake pan according to the package instructions.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil; mix until well blended.

3. Divide the cake batter evenly into six bowls, then tint each bowl with a different gel food coloring to create your rainbow colors.

4. Pour each colored batter into the prepared cake pan in layers and swirl slightly to create a marbled effect.

5. Bake according to package instructions, then allow the cake to cool completely.

6. Once cooled, crumble the cake into a large bowl and mix in the vanilla frosting until combined.

7. Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a lined baking sheet.

8. Melt the chocolate or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, adding coconut oil if desired for a smoother consistency.

9. Dip the end of each lollipop stick into the melted chocolate and insert it into a cake pop ball for added stability.

10. Dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate, tapping off any excess, then decorate with sprinkles while still wet.

11. Place the decorated pops into a Styrofoam block or a pop stand to set.

12. Allow the chocolate to harden completely before serving or packaging.

Tips:

• For an even more vibrant look, use a combination of pastel and bright gel food colors.
• Make sure to let the cake pops cool completely to prevent melting the chocolate coating.
• Store the finished cake pops in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Experiment with different toppings like crushed nuts or chocolate drizzle for added flair.

St. Patrick’s Day Rainbow Layer Cake

This St. Patrick’s Day Rainbow Layer Cake is a vibrant celebration of flavors with its delightful vanilla sponge, luscious buttercream, and a fun and festive rainbow presentation.

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• gel food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease six 8-inch round cake pans.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the whole milk, and mix until smooth.

6. Divide the batter evenly into six bowls, and color each with a different gel food coloring to create a rainbow effect.

7. Pour each colored batter into the prepared cake pans, one color per pan.

8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.

11. Once the cakes are completely cooled, layer them on a serving platter, spreading a layer of frosting between each cake.

12. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream.

13. Decorate with rainbow sprinkles or other festive decorations as desired.

Tips:

• Make sure to allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Use a serrated knife to level the top of each cake, ensuring even layers.
• For brighter colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Shamrock Swirl Rainbow Cupcakes

These Shamrock Swirl Rainbow Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the festive flavors of vanilla and mint, creating a colorful and fun dessert perfect for any celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp mint extract
• 3-4 drops green food coloring
• 1 cup rainbow sprinkles
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk (for frosting)

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

6. Divide the batter into two bowls. Stir the mint extract and green food coloring into one bowl and mix until well combined.

7. In the second bowl, gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles.

8. In each cupcake liner, alternate spooning the mint batter and the sprinkle batter to create a swirl effect.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

10. While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting by mixing the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth.

11. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the prepared icing and top with extra rainbow sprinkles if desired.

Tips:

• For a more intense mint flavor, increase the mint extract to 1 ½ tsp.
• For colorful layers, use additional food coloring to separate the batters further.
• Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.

Irish Rainbow Fruit Parfait

This Irish Rainbow Fruit Parfait is a vibrant and delicious way to celebrate fresh fruits, layered with creamy yogurt and a touch of honey, bringing together delightful flavors and stunning visual appeal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1/2 cup orange segments
• 1/2 cup pineapple, diced
• 1/2 cup kiwi, sliced
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1/4 cup granola

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.

2. In serving glasses, start layering the parfait by adding a spoonful of the yogurt mixture at the bottom.

3. Follow with a layer of strawberries, then add another spoonful of yogurt on top.

4. Add the orange segments on top of the yogurt layer, followed by more yogurt.

5. Continue layering with pineapple, kiwi, and blueberries, alternating with yogurt until the glasses are filled.

6. Finish with a sprinkle of granola on top for added crunch.

Tips:

• For added sweetness, adjust the honey to your taste.
• Feel free to mix and match fruits based on your preference or seasonal availability.
• Prepare the yogurt mixture ahead of time for quicker assembly.

Rainbow Chocolate Bark

This Rainbow Chocolate Bark is a vibrant and delicious treat that showcases the delightful combination of sweet chocolate and colorful candies, making it perfect for any celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles
• 1/2 cup mini M&M’s or other colorful candy

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth.

3. Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer.

4. Repeat the melting process for the milk chocolate chips, then pour and spread it over the dark chocolate layer.

5. Finally, melt the white chocolate chips using the same method, then pour and spread it over the milk chocolate layer.

6. While the chocolate layers are still soft, sprinkle rainbow sprinkles and mini M&M’s on top, pressing them in gently.

7. Refrigerate the bark for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is completely hardened.

8. Once hardened, break the bark into pieces and serve.

Tips:

• For a fun twist, try adding dried fruit or nuts along with the candies.
• Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
• Store the chocolate bark in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Leprechaun’s Potion Rainbow Jello Shots

These Leprechaun’s Potion Rainbow Jello Shots are a whimsical and colorful treat that delightfully combine fruity flavors and a splash of fun for any festive gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups boiling water
• 2 cups cold water
• 3 oz box of lemon jello
• 3 oz box of orange jello
• 3 oz box of strawberry jello
• 3 oz box of green jello
• 3 oz box of blue jello
• 3 oz box of grape jello
• 1 cup vodka (optional, can replace with cold water)
• 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
• Rainbow sprinkles (for garnish)

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Begin by boiling 2 cups of water in a pot.

2. Once boiling, mix in the first box of jello (lemon) and stir until fully dissolved.

3. Add 1 cup of vodka (or cold water) to the jello mix and stir well.

4. Pour the mixture into shot glasses, filling them about one-third full. Let them chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.

5. Repeat steps 1-4 for each jello flavor, ensuring to layer them in the following order: orange, strawberry, green, blue, and grape. Remember to chill before adding the next layer.

6. Once all layers have been added and set, top each shot with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles.

Tips:

• Ensure each jello layer is fully set before adding the next to avoid mixing.
• For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace vodka with cold water in each layer.
• Use clear shot glasses to fully display the beautiful rainbow effect.
• Experiment with different flavor combinations for a unique twist!

Colorful Rainbow Cookies

These Colorful Rainbow Cookies are a delightful treat bursting with vibrant flavors and a whimsical look that will brighten up any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup colorful sprinkles
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• Food coloring (red, yellow, green, blue, and purple)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and almond extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

5. Divide the dough into five equal portions and tint each with a different food coloring.

6. Roll each colored dough into logs, then stack them together and press gently to combine.

7. Roll the combined log in colorful sprinkles until evenly coated.

8. Slice the log into 1/2-inch thick cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.

10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Tips:

• For a more vibrant color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid.
• Experiment with different flavored extracts like lemon or coconut for a unique twist.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Rainbow Meringue Cookies

These Rainbow Meringue Cookies are not only visually stunning but also delightfully crisp and airy, making them the perfect sweet treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 4 egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon food coloring (various colors)
• 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy.

3. Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.

4. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.

5. Beat in the vanilla extract and cornstarch until combined.

6. Divide the meringue into separate bowls and add food coloring to each, mixing gently to combine.

7. Using a piping bag, pipe out small meringue shapes onto the prepared baking sheet.

8. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until the cookies are crisp and easy to lift off the parchment.

9. Turn off the oven and let the cookies cool completely inside, which helps them firm up.

Tips:

• Ensure your mixing bowl and utensils are completely clean and dry to achieve the best whipped egg whites.
• Experiment with different food coloring techniques for a marbled effect.
• Store meringue cookies in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.

Pot of Gold Rainbow Cheesecake

This Pot of Gold Rainbow Cheesecake is a vibrant and creamy dessert that combines layers of colorful flavors, perfect for celebrating any special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 6 food colorings (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
• ½ cup whipped cream for topping
• Gold sprinkles for decoration

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 90 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.

2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined, then press firmly into the bottom of the springform pan.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

4. Stir in sour cream and lemon juice, mixing until fully incorporated.

5. Divide the cheesecake batter evenly into six separate bowls.

6. Add a different food coloring to each bowl and mix until the colors are vibrant.

7. Pour the colored batters into the pan one at a time, layering each color gently one on top of the other.

8. Bake for 60 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

9. Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

10. Once chilled, whip the cream and spread it over the top of the cheesecake, then sprinkle with gold sprinkles before serving.

Tips:

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• For cleaner slices, dip your knife in hot water before cutting each piece.
• Feel free to customize the colors to match any theme or occasion.

Emerald Isle Rainbow Trifle

This Emerald Isle Rainbow Trifle is a stunning dessert that layers vibrant fruits, creamy custard, and whipped cream, making it as delicious as it is visually appealing.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sponge cake, cubed
• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 cup green gelatin, prepared
• 2 cups vanilla pudding
• 2 cups whipped cream
• 1/2 cup mint leaves for garnish

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large trifle bowl, layer half of the cubed sponge cake at the bottom.

2. Add a layer of mixed berries over the sponge cake.

3. Pour half of the prepared green gelatin evenly over the berries.

4. Spoon half of the vanilla pudding on top of the gelatin layer.

5. Repeat the layering process starting with the remaining sponge cake, followed by the remaining mixed berries, gelatin, and pudding.

6. Top the trifle with a generous layer of whipped cream.

7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of liqueur to the gelatin.
• Feel free to customize this trifle with your favorite seasonal fruits.
• Make the elements ahead of time and assemble the trifle just before serving for optimal freshness.