The smell of a freshly baked funfetti cake wafting through my kitchen is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Imagine golden vanilla sponge bursting with a riot of rainbow-colored sprinkles that dance in the sunlight like confetti at a party. It’s not just a treat; it’s an invitation to celebrate life’s little moments—and let’s face it, who needs an excuse for cake?
As I whip up this delightful concoction, memories flood back from birthday parties past. Picture me as a child, eyes wide with anticipation as mom pulled a whimsical sprinkle-adorned cake from the oven. Every slice was a treasure chest of sweet nostalgia. Whether it’s a birthday bash or simply a Tuesday that needs brightening up, this funfetti creation promises to deliver smiles and happy taste buds alike.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Funfetti cake is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients that you probably already have at home
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning for any celebration or gathering
- The flavors are light and buttery, making it perfect for any occasion
- Plus, it’s versatile—ideal for birthdays or just because!
I remember the first time I made this funfetti cake; my friends thought I had transformed into a baking wizard overnight!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Opt for unbleached flour for a more natural flavor; it works best in cakes.
- Baking Powder: Fresh baking powder is vital; check the expiration date for guaranteed fluffiness.
- Granulated Sugar: Use fine sugar to ensure even distribution and sweetness throughout your batter.
- Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter creates a smooth batter; skip the salted kind for better control over flavors.
- Eggs: Large eggs enrich the batter; use them at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth; avoid imitation vanilla if possible for best results.
- Rainbow Sprinkles: Choose high-quality sprinkles that won’t bleed color into the batter—trust me on this one!
- Milk: Whole milk enhances richness; feel free to substitute with your preferred dairy alternative.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or nonstick spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder until well combined. This ensures even leavening when baked.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. The mixture should turn pale and light.
Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract : Beat in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Add Dry Ingredients Gradually : Alternate adding dry ingredients with milk into the butter mixture. Start with flour and end with milk until just combined—avoid overmixing!
Fold in Rainbow Sprinkles : Gently fold those shimmering sprinkles into your batter using a spatula until evenly distributed without crushing them.
**Bake Until Golden**: Pour batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!
**Cool Before Frosting**: Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks. Wait until completely cool before frosting—the suspense builds!
Now you have every step laid out like breadcrumbs leading straight to frosting heaven! Enjoy sharing this delightful funfetti cake with friends or savoring it all alone—no judgment here!
You Must Know
- Funfetti cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration in every slice
- The colorful sprinkles bring joy and nostalgia, making it perfect for birthdays or any day that needs a little extra cheer
- Remember, the vibrant colors and sweet aroma will elevate your baking game!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix dry ingredients first, then incorporate wet ones for even consistency. Bake until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap vanilla extract for almond extract for an exciting twist. Adding citrus zest can brighten the flavor, making it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover funfetti cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze slices individually.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always sift your flour; this ensures a light and fluffy cake texture
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and rising
- Don’t skip letting the cake cool completely before frosting for neat layers
Baking this funfetti cake reminded me of my childhood birthday parties, where sprinkles reigned supreme. Friends would devour it, leaving only crumbs as evidence of its deliciousness.
FAQ
Can I make funfetti cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day in advance; just store it properly.
What type of frosting pairs well with funfetti cake?
Buttercream frosting is classic, but cream cheese frosting adds a tangy twist.
Can I substitute gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.
Funfetti Cake
Brighten up any occasion with this delightful funfetti cake, bursting with colorful sprinkles and a buttery vanilla flavor. Perfect for birthdays or just because!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup rainbow sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well each time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternating with milk until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
