Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan St. Patrick’s Day Rainbow Cupcakes are a festive, plant-based treat that brings joy and color to any celebration. These cupcakes feature vibrant rainbow layers, a fluffy vanilla flavor, and a cloud-like vegan buttercream, making them perfect for St. Patrick’s Day parties or to surprise little ones with a magical dessert. No eggs or dairy needed—just wholesome ingredients and a dash of fun.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourbaking powderbaking sodasaltcane sugarplant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat)apple cider vinegarneutral oil (like canola or vegetable)vanilla extractgel or liquid food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)

For the Vegan Buttercream

vegan butterconfectioners’ sugarplant-based milkvanilla extract

directions

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

In a small bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes to create vegan buttermilk.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

Add the vegan buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.

Divide the batter evenly into six small bowls and tint each with a different food coloring to create the rainbow.

Carefully spoon a small amount of each colored batter into each cupcake liner, layering the colors in rainbow order (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple). Smooth each layer gently before adding the next.

Bake for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

To make the frosting, beat the vegan butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a splash of plant-based milk until desired consistency is reached.

Pipe or spread the frosting onto cooled cupcakes.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 cupcakes.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 18–22 minutesCooling and frosting time: 30 minutesTotal time: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add edible glitter or gold sprinkles to the top for a magical finish.

Top each cupcake with a candy gold coin or mini rainbow candy.

Use lemon or almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor twist.

Try coconut whipped cream for a lighter topping.

storage/reheating

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for best results.

What kind of food coloring is vegan?

Look for plant-based or natural food coloring brands that are labeled vegan and cruelty-free.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake the batter right after mixing for a good rise, but you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately in advance.

Can I use coconut oil instead of canola oil?

Yes, but be sure it’s melted and cooled before mixing. It may add a slight coconut flavor.

Are these cupcakes kid-friendly?

Absolutely—kids will love the rainbow layers and sweet frosting.

Why are my layers mixing together?

Make sure to spoon in each layer gently and use a thicker batter consistency if needed.

Can I skip the food coloring?

Yes, you can make plain vanilla cupcakes or use natural coloring alternatives like beet powder or matcha.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled for a larger batch.

Do I need to use cupcake liners?

Liners make cleanup easier and keep the cupcakes intact, but you can grease the muffin tin well as an alternative.

Can I make these without frosting?

Yes, the cupcakes are still delicious without frosting or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Conclusion

Vegan St. Patrick’s Day Rainbow Cupcakes are a cheerful, colorful dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Perfect for celebrating the holiday or adding some color to your day, these plant-based treats are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Bake up a batch and taste the magic of the rainbow!