Rainbow Jelly Cake with Agar-Agar (Print)

Silky agar-agar rainbow layers finished with coconut cream — dairy-free, gluten-free, chilled and ready to slice.

# What you'll need:

→ Agar-Agar Jelly Layers

01 - 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder (about 16 g)
02 - 900 ml water
03 - 200 g granulated sugar
04 - Food colorings: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

→ Coconut Cream Layer

06 - 400 ml coconut cream
07 - 200 ml water
08 - 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder (about 16 g)
09 - 100 g granulated sugar
10 - Pinch of salt

# Directions:

01 - In a saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder with 900 ml water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until agar-agar dissolves completely (about 3 minutes). Add 200 g sugar and vanilla extract, stirring until dissolved.
02 - Remove from heat and divide the clear agar mixture into 6 bowls. Add a few drops of each food coloring to create red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple.
03 - Pour the red layer into a rectangular or round mold (about 20 cm diameter). Let it cool for 5–8 minutes, until just set but not too firm. Repeat with orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple, allowing each layer to set before adding the next.
04 - In a clean saucepan, mix 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder with 200 ml water and 400 ml coconut cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring well. Add 100 g sugar and pinch of salt, stir until dissolved.
05 - Once the last jelly color has set, gently pour the warm coconut cream mixture over the rainbow layers. Allow to cool to room temperature.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until completely firm. Gently loosen edges and invert onto a serving plate.
07 - Cut into neat slices or cubes. Serve cold.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The way the layers shimmer is a little culinary magic trick guaranteed to wow guests.
  • The soothing coconut cream gives it a velvety finish you’ll find yourself craving even after the last slice disappears.
02 -
  • If you pour a new layer while the previous one is too hot or firm, the layers may separate or ripple awkwardly.
  • Letting the coconut layer cool slightly before pouring prevents it from melting those perfect rainbow stripes.
03 -
  • Measure water and agar-agar carefully; too much or too little can leave your jelly grainy or loose.
  • Wipe the bowl clean between colors to avoid muddy bands—those tiny details matter in the final reveal.
Go back