If you’ve ever wanted to bring a burst of joy and celebration right into your kitchen, this Funfetti Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine cutting into a beautifully moist, tender cake speckled with colorful sprinkles that melt into every bite, topped with a luscious, creamy buttercream that’s as delightful to look at as it is to savor. This beloved cake has a way of turning any ordinary day into a party, perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or even when you just need a happy treat. The charm of this Funfetti Cake Recipe lies in its simple ingredients coming together to create a slice of pure happiness with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking perfection. Each component in this Funfetti Cake Recipe plays a crucial role: from the rich butter that creates buttery tenderness, to the sprinkles that add joyful pops of color, every ingredient is essential for that iconic funfetti experience.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Provides rich flavor and moisture for a tender crumb.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness and helps create lightness in the cake.
- 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft for days.
- 4 large eggs, room temperature: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s aroma and depth of flavor.
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cake its shape and texture.
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise nicely and stay fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to achieve the perfect rise.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and highlights other flavors.
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream, room temperature: Adds tanginess and extra moisture.
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature: Contributes to softness and tenderizes the crumb.
- 3/4 cup rainbow jimmies sprinkles: The fun bursts of color that make this cake unmistakably funfetti.
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting): Ensures a creamy, dreamy buttercream texture.
- 5 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Brings warmth and aroma to the buttercream.
- 2–3 tbsp milk: Adjusts frosting consistency for spreading and piping.
- 1/2 cup sprinkles for decorating: Adds the final magical touch and a festive visual punch.
How to Make Funfetti Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking right from the moment your batter goes in. Grease and line three 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper for easy removal later. Then, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl and set it aside. This blend of dry ingredients is the backbone of your cake’s perfect texture and rise.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Next up, cream together your butter and sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy—this step is key for incorporating air to make the cake delightfully soft. Add the oil and mix well to retain moisture in the crumb. Incorporate the eggs one at a time to keep the batter smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract to layer on that rich scent and flavor.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the sour cream to the mixture, which brings a beautiful tang and moisture that makes the cake melt-in-your-mouth tender. Now, alternate adding your dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. This technique keeps the batter balanced, preventing it from becoming too dense or too runny.
Step 4: Fold in the Sprinkles
Here comes the best part of the Funfetti Cake Recipe: gently folding in the rainbow jimmies sprinkles. Be careful not to overmix or the colors will bleed, but make sure they are evenly distributed so every chunk of cake has a fun and colorful surprise.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake them for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. When the cakes are done, let them cool completely on wire racks. This cooling step is critical before frosting to avoid melting your buttercream.
Step 6: Make the Buttercream Frosting
While the cakes cool, beat the butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating the mixture until it’s fluffy, silky, and just right for spreading. This luscious frosting is the perfect companion that complements the sweet, colorful cake layers.
Step 7: Assemble and Decorate
Finally, frost your cooled cakes with the buttercream, layering generously between each. Finish with a generous sprinkle of additional jimmies on top for that classic funfetti look that instantly lifts everyone’s spirits.
How to Serve Funfetti Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a delightful way to personalize your Funfetti Cake Recipe. Fresh berries or edible flowers can introduce a hint of freshness, but nothing beats a shower of colorful sprinkles to keep the funfetti spirit alive. You can even drizzle some white chocolate or a light glaze for a touch more elegance without losing the playfulness.
Side Dishes
Funfetti cake shines brightest as the centerpiece of celebrations, so keep sides simple and complementary. Fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream make excellent companions that balance the sweetness without overwhelming the cake’s delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the traditional round cakes! Try this recipe as funfetti cupcakes for bite-sized fun or layer it into a funfetti trifle by cubing the cake and layering it with pudding and fruit. For a show-stopping party presentation, pipe buttercream rosettes on the cake surface and top with candles or edible glitter to make every celebration unforgettable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Funfetti Cake Recipe tasting fresh, wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method preserves moisture and prevents the buttercream from hardening or drying out overnight.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead or save cake for later, you can freeze both the unfrosted cake layers and the fully assembled cake. Wrap layers individually in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting or serving. For frosted cakes, cover loosely with plastic wrap and freeze, but note the texture of sprinkles may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Unlike some baked goods, funfetti cake is best enjoyed at room temperature. If your slices are chilled or frozen, allow them to come to room temp for 30–60 minutes before serving to bring out the full flavor and soften the buttercream for the perfect bite.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sprinkles in the Funfetti Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Rainbow jimmies are classic, but non-melting sprinkles or colored sugar crystals work just as well. Avoid chocolate-based sprinkles as they can bleed color and texture during baking.
Is there a dairy-free option for this Funfetti Cake Recipe?
Yes! Substitute dairy butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, and use a non-dairy yogurt or sour cream alternative. Plant-based milk can replace buttermilk by adding a teaspoon of vinegar to your choice of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes.
How do I prevent the sprinkles from bleeding colors into the batter?
To keep those vibrant dots distinct, fold the sprinkles into the batter gently and briefly. Using non-melting jimmies helps, and avoid overmixing once sprinkles are added.
Can I make this Funfetti Cake Recipe in one large cake pan?
Yes, but baking times will increase. Use a 9×13-inch pan and check for doneness around 40–45 minutes. Adjust accordingly to avoid overbaking or undercooking.
What’s the best way to get the frosting fluffy and smooth?
Beat the butter very well before adding sugar, and add powdered sugar gradually. If the frosting is too thick, a splash more milk can soften it, or if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar. Patience and a good mixer make all the difference!
Final Thoughts
If you want to bring a little sunshine and celebration to your kitchen, this Funfetti Cake Recipe is a joyful, reliable way to do just that. It’s approachable enough for bakers of all levels and rewarding enough to earn a place in your recipe collection. Grab your sprinkles and oven mitts, because baking this cake means creating moments of happiness everyone will cherish. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to for all those moments that deserve an extra sprinkle of fun.
Print
Funfetti Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Funfetti Cake is a delightful celebration dessert featuring moist vanilla cake layers packed with colorful sprinkles and topped with a creamy buttercream frosting. Perfect for birthdays and special occasions, the vibrant rainbow sprinkles add a festive touch to each bite, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream, room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 3/4 cup rainbow jimmies sprinkles
Buttercream Frosting
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 cup sprinkles for decorating
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 9-inch cake pans and line them with parchment paper to ensure your cakes release easily after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the vegetable or canola oil and mix well to combine.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Follow by mixing in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Stir in the sour cream. Then, alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Gently fold in the 3/4 cup of rainbow sprinkles to evenly distribute them without overmixing.
- Divide and Bake: Evenly divide the batter among the three prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Once done, allow the cakes to cool completely on wire racks.
- Prepare Buttercream Frosting: Beat the 1 1/2 cups of unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract and 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk, beating continuously until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
- Assemble and Decorate: Once the cakes are fully cooled, frost them with the prepared buttercream. Finish the cake by decorating the top with the remaining 1/2 cup of sprinkles for a fun and festive appearance.
Notes
- Ensure all your wet ingredients are at room temperature for the best batter consistency and rise.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the cake light and tender.
- Use colorful rainbow jimmies sprinkles rather than nonpareils to prevent color bleeding into the batter.
- The cake layers can be baked a day in advance and stored wrapped tightly to maintain freshness.
- If you prefer a lighter frosting, you can reduce the amount of butter slightly or add more milk to adjust consistency.
