Funfetti Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a cake that brings joy and celebration to any occasion, this Funfetti Cake Recipe is just what you need! With layers of soft and moist vanilla cake speckled with colorful rainbow sprinkles, it truly feels like a party in cake form. I adore this recipe because it tastes just like the classic box cake mix I loved growing up, but it’s made from scratch with love and wholesome ingredients. Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday bash, or just a cozy weekend treat, this cake will surely put a smile on everyone’s face.

Making this Funfetti Cake is so simple! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something sweet and special without too much fuss. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get the kids involved in the kitchen—who wouldn’t love pouring in those sprinkles?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously nostalgic: This Funfetti Cake tastes just like your favorite childhood dessert.
• Easy to make: You’ll love how straightforward the steps are; even novice bakers can shine!
• Perfect for any occasion: Birthdays, anniversaries, or even just because—this cake fits every celebration.
• Family-friendly fun: Kids adore the colorful sprinkles, making it a hit with little ones and adults alike.
• Make ahead convenience: Bake it in advance and store it for those surprise guests!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Funfetti Cake. With these pantry staples, you’ll be well on your way to baking happiness.

For the Cake

• 3 cups (390g) cake flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 12 tablespoons (180g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/3 cup (80mL) vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup (180mL) whole milk, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 cup (240g) full fat sour cream, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 3/4 cup (120g) rainbow jimmies sprinkles

For the Frosting

• 1 1/2 cups (340g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 6 cups (780g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 4-6 tablespoons whole milk

Variations

This Funfetti Cake Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to customize your cake experience:

• Swap the sprinkles: Use different types of sprinkles like chocolate chips or seasonal colors for holidays!
• Try different flavors: Add lemon or almond extract instead of vanilla for a fun twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Layer it up: Create a tiered version by adding more layers of frosting between each layer!

How to Make Funfetti Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed. This step is important because it helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3–5 minutes with an electric mixer. Creaming incorporates air into your mixture and contributes to a fluffy texture in your cake.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the vegetable oil, whole milk combined with white vinegar (to create buttermilk), sour cream, vanilla extract, and eggs one at a time. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Each ingredient adds moisture and flavor that makes this Funfetti Cake so irresistible!

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Now gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until no flour streaks remain—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light one.

Step 6: Fold in Sprinkles

Gently fold in the rainbow jimmies sprinkles using a spatula. This will give your batter those lovely bursts of color throughout your cake.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Pour the batter into prepared round cake pans and smooth out the tops. Bake for about 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they bake; every oven is slightly different!

Step 8: Cool and Frost

Once baked, let your cakes cool in their pans for about ten minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely. After they’ve cooled down completely, prepare your frosting by beating together unsalted butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.

Once frosted generously between layers and on top of your cake masterpiece—don’t forget those extra sprinkles on top for flair! Enjoy sharing this delightful Funfetti Cake at your next gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Funfetti Cake Recipe

Baking should be fun and stress-free, so here are some tips to help you create the perfect funfetti cake every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature helps them mix together more smoothly, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cake.

• Sift your dry ingredients – Sifting not only helps remove lumps but also aerates the flour, giving your cake a delicate crumb structure. This step is especially important in achieving that soft texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid developing gluten, which can lead to a dense cake. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

• Add sprinkles at the right time – Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles at the end of mixing to prevent them from bleeding into the batter and losing their vibrant colors.

• Test for doneness with a toothpick – Every oven is different! Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, it’s time to take it out.

How to Serve Funfetti Cake Recipe

Presenting your funfetti cake can be just as delightful as baking it! Here are some fantastic serving ideas that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream – A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds an airy touch that complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
• Fresh berries – Strawberries or blueberries not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – The classic pairing! A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside your slice of funfetti cake creates a deliciously indulgent treat.

• Fruit salad – A light and refreshing fruit salad balances out the sweetness of the cake, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.

• Chocolate sauce drizzle – Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice adds an extra layer of decadence that chocolate lovers will adore.

• Zesty lemon sorbet – This cool and tangy sorbet acts as a palate cleanser and contrasts nicely with the sweet vanilla flavor of your funfetti cake.

Now that you have all these tips and ideas in mind, it’s time to bake up some joy with this delightful funfetti cake recipe! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Funfetti Cake Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time for special occasions or just to satisfy your sweet tooth throughout the week. Here’s how to store and manage your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week; just be sure it’s well covered to prevent it from drying out.
• For best flavor and texture, allow the cake to come back to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• You can also freeze the whole cake. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before wrapping.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• If you want to warm a slice, place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Cover with foil if you’re reheating larger portions.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this fun and festive recipe!

Can I make this Funfetti Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum, ensuring it measures the same as regular cake flour.

How can I customize my Funfetti Cake Recipe?

You can easily customize this cake by using different types of sprinkles or adding flavor extracts like almond or lemon. Feel free to get creative!

What makes this Funfetti Cake Recipe taste so good?

This recipe combines high-quality ingredients like butter and sour cream, which create a rich, moist texture reminiscent of classic box mix cakes.

Can I use dairy-free alternatives in this Funfetti Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use dairy-free butter for a deliciously vegan option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Funfetti Cake Recipe as delightful as I do! It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience filled with joy and celebration. Whether you’re baking for a birthday party or simply indulging yourself, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every moment you spend in the kitchen creating this masterpiece, and don’t forget to share your joyful creations with family and friends!