Bursting with vibrant colors and indulgent layers, Rainbow Cookies 7 Layer are a visually stunning treat that combines almond-rich cake, fruity apricot jam, and velvety bittersweet chocolate in perfect harmony. This classic Italian-American dessert features three distinct layers of almond sponge cake, tinted red, green, and uncolored, artfully stacked to represent the colors of the Italian flag. Carefully compressed and chilled to ensure a seamless and moist texture, each bite is a delightful balance of nutty richness, tangy sweetness, and lush chocolate. Perfect for holiday celebrations or special occasions, these cookies are cut into elegant bite-sized rectangles, making them a festive and shareable dessert. With their vibrant appearance and decadent taste, Rainbow Cookies 7 Layer are as unforgettable as they are delicious.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line three 9x13-inch baking pans with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and almond paste until smooth and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually mix in the flour until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among three bowls. Leave one portion plain, tint the second portion with red food coloring, and tint the third portion with green food coloring. Mix each thoroughly until the colors are evenly distributed.
Spread each colored batter separately into the prepared baking pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft. Do not overbake.
Allow the layers to cool completely in the pans on wire racks.
Once cooled, spread a thin layer of apricot jam over the red layer. Carefully place the plain (uncolored) layer on top and spread another thin layer of apricot jam over it. Finally, top with the green layer.
Wrap the layered cake tightly in plastic wrap and place a heavy book or sheet pan on top to compress the layers. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Melt the bittersweet chocolate and heavy cream together in a double boiler or microwave until smooth, stirring frequently.
Spread half the melted chocolate evenly over the top of the chilled cake. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate has set.
Flip the cake over onto another piece of parchment paper and spread the remaining chocolate over the other side. Refrigerate again until set.
Trim the edges of the cake with a sharp knife to create clean lines. Cut into small rectangular or square pieces to serve.
Calories |
4891 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 221.5 g | 284% | |
| Saturated Fat | 114.8 g | 574% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1052 mg | 351% | |
| Sodium | 382 mg | 17% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 674.8 g | 245% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.9 g | 85% | |
| Total Sugars | 489.6 g | ||
| Protein | 65.4 g | 131% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.1 mcg | 20% | |
| Calcium | 399 mg | 31% | |
| Iron | 38.9 mg | 216% | |
| Potassium | 1947 mg | 41% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.