Easy Viral Dot Cakes Recipe (Gluten Free)

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If you've spent any time scrolling social media this summer, you have probably seen the colorful Viral Dot Cake popping up everywhere. With its bright rainbow dots baked right into the batter and it's simple preparation, this gluten free dot cake lets everyone join in on the fun!

There's a good chance the Viral Dot Cake first caught your attention because of how cheerful it looks. While it's difficult to pinpoint exactly where the trend began, the cake gained popularity through social media. It originated from The Dotcakes bakery in New York and has gone viral. By adding colorful dots of batter throughout a cake to create a playful polka dot effect, this dessert is nostalgic, fun and incredibly shareable.

Now, if you are like me you want it gluten free and this can be done with a high quality gluten free cake mix. It's really that easy! The cake bakes up soft, fluffy and moist with a tender crumb. The gluten free colorful dots add visual appeal without affecting the texture while also being very eye catching. It's great for birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and small gatherings.

If you're in the mood for more crowd pleasing desserts, be sure to check out my Homemade Chocolate Cake or this rich and elegant Flourless Chocolate Torte as well.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS CAKE RECIPE

• Easily made gluten free. Using a gluten free cake mix keeps this recipe simple and accessible while delivering a soft, fluffy cake that nobody will guess is even gluten free.

• Absolutely adorable. Those colorful dots baked throughout the cake create a surprise inside every slice and look so indulgent.

• Summer entertaining. This cake instantly brightens any dessert table and adds a fun, festive touch to picnics, bbqs, potlucks or family gatherings.

• Kids and adults love them. These mini cakes appeal to both kids and they are also special to adults too.

INGREDIENTS FOR GLUTEN FREE DOT CAKES

• Vanilla gluten free cake mix: I like using the Simple Mills Vanilla Cake Mix but any gluten free one will work.

• Eggs, oil and water: Use the recommended amounts on your cake box. This will all be dependent on the weight of the cake mix box and the individual brand.

• Vanilla frosting: You can use store bought vanilla or make your own buttercream frosting.

• Gluten free dots or sprinkles: I love using the brand Supernatural Rainbow Nonpareils. They are also dye free too.

Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

HOW TO MAKE GLUTEN FREE DOT CAKES

Step 1: Prepare and bake cake

Step 2: Create circular holes in cake with dessert cups

Step 3: Spoon vanilla frosting on top of cake that is in the cups

Step 4: Dip cups into sprinkles

Step 5: Lift up the cake cups and serve

EMILY'S TIPS

• Use a high quality gluten free cake mix. It is best to use your favorite one that you love and enjoy for this cake. I love and recommend using Simple Mills but there are so many.

• Keep dot size consistent. Using similar sized dots throughout the batter helps create a more uniform and attractive appearance when sliced.

• Leave space between the dots. Crowding too many dots together can cause the colors to blend during baking.

• Let the cake cool completely. Warm cake is very fragile so make sure it is fully cooled before frosting and pressing into the dots.

• Decorate to match the occasion. Customize the dot colors for birthdays, holidays, baby showers, graduations and any other seasonal celebration.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH VIRAL DOT CAKES

These colorful dot cakes taste great by themselves but if your like my son you have to have ice cream with cake. This Vanilla Honey Ice Cream will definitely compliment this cake but if you want to add a little protein to the mix then this Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough Ice Cream might be better.

You can always wash a slice down with a glass of Honey Lemonade or sip on this Watermelon Mint Slushie if enjoying during the summer. During the winter, a cup of coffee or Hot Cocoa pairs just fine too.

STORAGE AND FREEZING

• Refrigerator: Place any leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

• Freezer: You can freeze individual slices in plastic wrap or the entire cake after storing in a freezer safe bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Just know the dots might get soft and the colors may run more once thawed.

FAQ'S

Can I use a homemade cake instead of a box mix?

Yes, any sturdy vanilla sheet cake will work.

What can I use instead of cardboard dessert cups?

A small round cookie cutter, biscuit cutter or the open end of a large piping tip can be used to create the holes.

Can I use different frosting colors?

Of course! Brightly colored or chocolate frosting would look great!

Do I have to flip the cake into the dots?

Yes. This is what creates the signature viral look and evenly coats the top of the cake.

I hope you give these Gluten Free Viral Dot Cakes a try! If you do give this recipe a try, please let me know!

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