Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake) Recipe

Looking for a showstopping, crowd-pleasing dessert that makes any summer party pop? Let me introduce you to the Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake)—a patriotic bundt that bursts with bold colors and even bolder flavors! This festive treat is as easy as it is impressive, with swirls of red, white, and blue cake and a sweet glaze showered in sparkling sprinkles. The moment it hits your table, you’ll hear plenty of “oohs and ahhs”—and don’t be surprised when the whole thing disappears in a flash.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake) is all about simple, reliable ingredients that work some real magic together. Each item brings something special to the party—whether it’s the tender crumb, the eye-popping color, or that irresistible hint of citrusy fizz!

• White cake mix: The dependable base that gives you light texture and an easy shortcut for wow-worthy results.
• Instant pudding mix: Brings softness and moisture, with options like vanilla, white chocolate, or cheesecake for a delicious flavor boost.
• Egg whites: Keep your cake beautifully white and extra fluffy while letting those colors shine bright.
• Vegetable oil: Adds tenderness and richness to the crumb—skip the butter, this is the secret to super moist cake.
• Sprite: Yes, soda! Sprite brings extra lift, a subtle citrus-y flavor, and a little fun fizz to the batter.
• Red food coloring: Brings that firecracker “pop” with bold, unapologetic color. Gel food coloring gives the most vibrant hue.
• Blue food coloring: For vivid blue swirls that practically leap from the slice—gel colors are again fabulous here.
• Powdered sugar: The classic base for your smooth, shiny glaze—no lumps, all sweetness.
• More Sprite (for icing): Use it to thin the glaze and carry that hint of citrus all the way to the finish.
• Red, white, and blue sprinkles: The finishing flourish that pulls the whole theme together and makes your cake truly sparkle.

How to Make Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake)

Step 1: Prep Your Bundt Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F. This lower temperature is gentle and helps the vibrant colors bake up beautifully, without browning too quickly. Generously grease a 10-cup bundt pan—use a baking spray or brush on oil, making sure to get into every nook and cranny, so your Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake) turns out effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl (or using a stand mixer with the whisk attachment), combine the white cake mix, instant pudding mix, and egg whites. Beat in the vegetable oil until smooth. Next, add the Sprite and gently mix on low speed—this is where the batter gets its light, airy lift. Make sure everything is combined, but don’t overmix!

Step 3: Divide and Color the Batter

Pour the batter evenly into three separate bowls. Leave one bowl plain for the “white” portion. To the second, add red food coloring and stir until you reach your desired boldness. To the third, add blue food coloring and mix just until beautifully vibrant. Try using gel colors for the most striking effect—but any type works in a pinch.

Step 4: Layer in the Pan

Now for the fun (and messy, possibly!) part: Use small cookie scoops or tablespoons to drop spoonfuls of each color into the prepared bundt pan. Alternate the colors as you go, placing different colors next to each other for that signature fireworks effect. Don’t stress about perfect patterns—it’ll look fabulous no matter what!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know your Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake) is done when a cake tester or toothpick comes out clean from the thickest part of the cake. The kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

Step 6: Cool Completely

Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes—this helps it set and makes it easier to unmold without breaking. Then, carefully flip the cake onto a cooling rack or large plate. Allow it to cool completely, at least another 40 minutes, before adding the icing. Trust me, patience here pays off with a beautifully intact, ready-to-decorate masterpiece.

Step 7: Mix and Pour the Icing

Whisk together 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar with 4 tablespoons Sprite until your glaze is smooth and slightly thick but pourable. Drizzle it generously over the cooled cake, letting it run down the sides. Now’s the time to go wild with red, white, and blue sprinkles—have fun and get the kids involved if you like!

How to Serve Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake)

Garnishes

Classic red, white, and blue sprinkles are a must, but you can also jazz things up with fresh berries or a dollop of sweetened whipped cream on the side. A few edible glitter stars add an extra pop of sparkle—go ahead and embrace your inner fireworks fanatic!

Side Dishes

Pair slices of Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake) with bowls of juicy strawberries and blueberries, or serve alongside cool vanilla ice cream for ultimate summer vibes. Kid-friendly lemonade and sparkling water are crowd-pleasers, or bring out a coffee pot for the grownups.

Creative Ways to Present

For a backyard party, plate the cake on a white stand and surround it with mini American flags or festive garlands. Create “cake kebab” skewers with cubes of Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake) alternating with fresh berries, or offer individual slices wrapped in parchment for easy grabbing. However you serve it, you’re guaranteed a stunning centerpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or keep the whole cake (covered) at room temperature for up to 2 days. The cake stays moist and delicious, making it perfect for next-day treats—or unexpected guests!

Freezing

Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake) freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake (without icing, if possible) in two layers of plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, and ice just before serving for best results.

Reheating

Bundt cakes are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you want to serve warm slices, microwave briefly (10-15 seconds per slice). Just keep an eye on the icing—it might melt, but it’ll still taste scrumptious!

FAQs

Can I use different cake or pudding flavors?

Absolutely! While a white cake mix helps the red and blue colors pop, you can experiment with yellow or even lemon cake mix. For pudding, try cheesecake, vanilla, or white chocolate. Each brings its own unique twist to the Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake).

Is it okay to substitute another soda for Sprite?

Yes! Any clear, citrus-based soda will work, like 7UP or Sierra Mist. The goal is to add fizz and a hint of citrus flavor—just avoid dark sodas, as they’ll affect the cake color.

What’s the best way to unmold the bundt cake cleanly?

Make sure to grease the pan thoroughly and let the cake cool for 20 minutes. Loosen the edges gently with a thin spatula before inverting. If any bits get stuck, just patch them on with extra icing and sprinkles!

Can I make this cake gluten-free or dairy-free?

Yes, swap in a gluten-free cake mix and pudding mix for a gluten-free version, and check that your soda, food colorings, and sprinkles are allergy-friendly. Vegetable oil keeps it dairy-free, just confirm with the other products you use.

How can I get those colors really vibrant?

Gel food colorings deliver the brightest, most consistent color in baked goods. If you’re using liquid food colors, don’t be afraid to add a few extra drops, but avoid overmixing the batter so the colors stay crisp and separate in your Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake).

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings big smiles and even bigger summer energy, the Firecracker Cake (Red, White, and Blue Bundt Cake) is the one to bake. It’s festive, fun, and easy enough for bakers of any skill level—plus, who can resist those playful swirls and sweet glaze? Give it a try, share it with your favorite people, and get ready to light up your next celebration!

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