The moment I pulled the first slice of Funfetti Cake from the oven, the kitchen was filled with a cheerful aroma of vanilla and butter that whisked me back to childhood birthday parties. This vibrant cake isn’t just a treat; it’s a celebration in itself, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply sweet moments at home. Made completely from scratch, this Funfetti Cake not only stands out with its stunning look, thanks to colorful rainbow sprinkles, but it also boasts a tender texture that melts in your mouth. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Ready to sprinkle a little joy into your next gathering? Let’s dive into the delightful world of homemade Funfetti Cake!
Why is Funfetti Cake So Special?
Vibrant Celebration: This Funfetti Cake is like a party on a plate, instantly lifting spirits with its colorful sprinkles.
Tender Texture: The perfectly moist crumb ensures each slice melts delightfully in your mouth.
Easy to Make: With basic ingredients and simple steps, even beginner bakers can master this cake!
Perfect for Any Occasion: From birthdays to casual get-togethers, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits all celebrations.
Versatile Joy: Customize it with seasonal sprinkles for holidays or add chocolate chips for extra fun. Enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream or alongside a slice of Pumpkin Cheesecake Cinnamon Roll for a truly indulgent experience!
Funfetti Cake Ingredients
• Make your celebration sweeter with this whimsical cake!
For the Cake
- Cake Flour – Provides structure and lightness; use all-purpose flour with a slight adjustment for a different texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture for that delightful flavor.
- Baking Powder – This leavening agent helps your cake rise beautifully.
- Baking Soda – Works with the buttermilk’s acidity to ensure a fluffy texture.
- Salt – A little enhancement to balance and brighten flavors.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist; consider coconut oil for a different twist.
- Buttermilk – Contributes tenderness and a rich flavor; whole milk with vinegar works as a substitute.
- Sour Cream – Infuses moisture and a lovely tanginess into the cake.
- Vanilla Extract – Essential for that classic cake flavor.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients with added richness; ensure they’re at room temperature.
- Rainbow Jimmies Sprinkles – Add vibrant fun and sweetness; opt for American-style sprinkles to maintain texture.
For the Frosting
- Unsalted Butter – Base for creamy, smooth frosting; softening aids in achieving fluffiness.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens your frosting; sifting it helps avoid lumps.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enriches flavor in your frosting.
- Vanilla Extract (Frosting) – Enhances the delightful sweet flavor.
- Whole Milk (Frosting) – Adjusts the texture for your desired consistency.
With these Funfetti Cake ingredients, you’re all set to bring joy and sweetness to your next celebration!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Funfetti Cake
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking. While that warms up, take two 8-inch round cake pans and grease them with unsalted butter or cooking spray. Then, dust the inside with a light layer of flour, tapping out the excess to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Next, cut in the softened butter and vegetable oil using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for the tender texture of your Funfetti Cake.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sour cream, vanilla extract, and eggs until you achieve a smooth blend. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better integration. This mixture will add the moisture and flavor necessary for your cake’s rich taste.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can lead to a dense cake. Once the batter is thick and smooth, fold in the vibrant rainbow sprinkles, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 6: Cool
After baking, remove the cake pans from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling process is essential to prevent the frosting from melting when you’re ready to decorate.
Step 7: Prepare Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare your frosting by whipping the softened unsalted butter in a mixing bowl until it’s fluffy and light in color. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well, then incorporate salt, vanilla extract, and enough whole milk to achieve your desired frosting consistency.
Step 8: Frost & Decorate
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Carefully place the second layer on top and frost the sides and top of the cake. Feel free to add a sprinkle party with additional rainbow sprinkles for a delightful finish to your Funfetti Cake!
Funfetti Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play around with this delightful Funfetti Cake recipe and make it your own!
- Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk and sour cream with almond or coconut yogurt mixed with a little almond milk for similar moisture.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a deliciously light cake without the gluten.
- Reduced Sugar: Cut granulated sugar by a third and add mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce to maintain sweetness while lowering calories.
- Flavor Twists: Mix in citrus zest—like lemon or orange—for a refreshing flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate Funfetti: Substitute some of the cake flour with cocoa powder (1/4 cup) for a delightful chocolate twist, adding chocolate chips for extra richness.
Chocolate lovers, rejoice! This idea is perfect for a birthday bash or any day that calls for chocolate happiness.
- Seasonal Sprinkles: Change the color scheme of your sprinkles to match any holiday theme, like red and green for Christmas or pastel shades for Easter festivities.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in some finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
- Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm twist that deepens the flavor profile, inviting cozy vibes.
Looking for more sweet ideas? Try pairing this fun cake with a refreshing scoop of Lemon Cream Cake or a decadent slice of Caramel Brownie Cheesecake for an unforgettable dessert spread!
Make Ahead Options
These Funfetti Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or storing them in an airtight container to keep them moist. The frosting can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature and re-whip before using to achieve that fluffy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cake layers just before your gathering for a fresh and delicious dessert that will impress everyone!
What to Serve with Funfetti Cake
A slice of this colorful Funfetti Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an invite to a joyful celebration and a feast for your taste buds.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture perfectly complements the moist cake, adding a delightful coolness to each bite.
-
Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a refreshing tartness that brightens the sweetness of the cake. Plus, their vibrant colors amplify the fun!
-
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream adds an elegant touch and luscious creaminess that balances the cake’s flavors.
-
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich chocolate sauce brings a decadent contrast that many find irresistible, elevating your cake into a truly indulgent dessert experience.
-
Lemonade: A chilled glass of refreshing lemonade cuts through the cake’s sweetness wonderfully, making every bite a perfect blend of zesty and sweet.
-
Fruit Salad: A mixed bowl of seasonal fruits creates a light and refreshing counterpoint, making for a balanced dessert table.
-
Coffee or Tea: The warm, comforting tones of a good coffee or herbal tea offer a delightful pairing, enhancing the cake’s celebratory flavors with depth.
Tips for the Best Funfetti Cake
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better emulsion and a smoother batter, resulting in a tender texture.
-
Don’t Overmix: After combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until integrated. Overmixing can lead to a dense Funfetti Cake that isn’t as fluffy.
-
Accurate Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for even cake layers. Precise measurements help achieve consistent baking results, ensuring everything rises perfectly.
-
Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different, so start checking your cake a few minutes early. Remove it when a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs for optimal moisture.
-
Cool Completely: Let your cakes cool completely before frosting. This prevents the icing from melting and allows for a beautiful, layered presentation.
-
Frosting Consistency: Adjust your frosting’s thickness by adding milk gradually. It should be spreadable but not too runny to maintain a lovely finish on your Funfetti Cake.
Storage Tips for Funfetti Cake
- Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves its moist texture while remaining accessible for quick snacking.
- Fridge: If you have leftovers, refrigerate the Funfetti Cake for up to a week. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of the cake wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil, which will keep them fresh for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before serving, or gently warm in the microwave for a few seconds to revive the cake’s tender texture.
Funfetti Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for Funfetti Cake?
For the best results, I recommend using cake flour as it provides the ideal tender texture and lightness. If you need a substitute, you can use all-purpose flour, but be sure to reduce the amount by 2 tablespoons per cup to avoid a denser cake.
How long can I store my Funfetti Cake?
You can store the Funfetti Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, it’s best to refrigerate it, where it will remain fresh for about a week. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze my Funfetti Cake? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your Funfetti Cake, first let it cool completely. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your Funfetti Cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or insufficient leavening. Be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients, and ensure you’re measuring your ingredients accurately. Next time, check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can hinder rise.
Is this Funfetti Cake recipe suitable for people with allergies?
This Funfetti Cake contains dairy and gluten, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. However, you can adapt the recipe for dietary needs by using gluten-free flour and dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk and coconut cream for the frosting. Always double-check labels to avoid any allergens!
How can I customize my Funfetti Cake for different occasions?
You can easily customize your Funfetti Cake by changing the sprinkles to match seasonal themes—red and green for Christmas or pastel sprinkles for Easter. Additionally, consider adding chocolate chips for a delightful twist or use flavored extracts like almond or lemon to change up the taste while keeping the joyful look intact.
Delicious Funfetti Cake: Perfectly Tender from Scratch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans with butter or spray, dusting with flour.
- In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in the softened butter and vegetable oil until coarse crumbs form.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, sour cream, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the sprinkles.
- Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by whipping the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and milk until desired consistency is reached.
- Once cool, frost the first layer, then place the second layer on top and frost the sides and top. Decorate with extra sprinkles.
Leave a Reply