Funfetti Cake

If you love a cake that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat, then Funfetti cake is the perfect dessert for you! Bursting with colorful sprinkles in every bite, this delightful cake brings a sense of joy to birthdays, celebrations, or even just a cozy weekend treat. Whether you’re making it from scratch or using a box mix, this recipe will guide you to create the best homemade Funfetti cake that’s soft, fluffy, and loaded with sprinkles.

Funfetti Cake

Why You’ll Love This Funfetti Cake

  • Easy to Make – With simple ingredients, this cake comes together in no time.

  • Festive and Fun – The colorful sprinkles make it a hit for kids and adults alike.

  • Moist and Fluffy Texture – This recipe ensures a light and airy cake every time.

  • Customizable – Swap out sprinkles for different occasions or add flavors to make it your own.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour

  • 2 ½ tsp baking powder

  • ½ tsp baking soda

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk

  • ½ cup (120ml) whole milk

  • ¾ cup (120g) rainbow sprinkles (jimmies, not nonpareils)

For the Frosting:

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar

  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

  • 3–4 tbsp heavy cream or milk

  • Pinch of salt

  • Extra sprinkles for decorating

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls

  • Electric mixer or stand mixer

  • 9-inch round cake pans (x2)

  • Parchment paper

  • Cooling rack

  • Offset spatula for frosting

Timing

  • Prep Time: 15–20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

  • Total Time: 40–50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.

  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

  5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.

  6. Stir in the whole milk until just combined.

  7. Gently fold in the sprinkles with a spatula to avoid color bleeding.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.

  2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  3. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

  1. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy.

  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.

  3. Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

  4. Add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches the desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble and Decorate

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.

  2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.

  3. Decorate with extra sprinkles and serve.

Funfetti Cake

Tips for the Best Funfetti Cake

  • Use Jimmies Sprinkles: These hold their shape better in the batter.

  • Don’t Overmix the Batter: This keeps the cake light and fluffy.

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure even mixing and better texture.

  • Chill the Cake Before Frosting: Prevents crumbs from mixing into the frosting.

Variations

  • Gluten-Free Funfetti Cake: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free butter, milk, and frosting substitutes.

  • Cupcake Version: Bake the batter in cupcake liners for 18-20 minutes.

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

  • Refrigerator: Keep covered for up to 5 days.

  • Freezer: Wrap cake layers separately in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480

  • Total Fat: 22g

  • Saturated Fat: 13g

  • Cholesterol: 95mg

  • Sodium: 220mg

  • Carbohydrates: 66g

  • Sugar: 48g

  • Protein: 5g

FAQs

Can I Use a Cake Mix Instead?

Yes! Simply use a vanilla or white cake mix and fold in sprinkles for a quicker version.

Why Did My Sprinkles Bleed?

Using the wrong sprinkles (nonpareils) can cause color bleeding. Stick to jimmies for best results.

Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in the fridge before assembling.

How Do I Make It Extra Moist?

Use buttermilk, avoid overmixing, and store properly to retain moisture.

Conclusion

Funfetti cake is a delightful and festive treat that’s perfect for any celebration. With its light, fluffy texture and bursts of colorful sprinkles, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re baking it for a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a fun dessert, this recipe will help you create the perfect homemade Funfetti cake. Happy baking.