Introduction
Nothing says “birthday” quite like a Funfetti cake. With its colorful sprinkles and light, fluffy texture, it's the ultimate celebratory treat. The fluffy Funfetti birthday cake recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of fun to their special day. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday or just want to bring some joy to a friend, this cake is sure to impress with its soft layers and vibrant sprinkles.
Let’s dive into how you can create the most festive Funfetti birthday cake right at home!
Ingredients Needed
Dry Ingredients:
2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
½ cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
½ cup (90g) sour cream
Colorful Sprinkles for That Funfetti Look:
½ cup rainbow sprinkles (preferably nonpareils or jimmies)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
Once combined, fold in the sprinkles, making sure they are evenly distributed in the batter.
2. Baking the Cake Perfectly
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Whipped Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Ingredients for the Frosting:
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
Pinch of salt
How to Make the Best Buttercream Frosting
Beat the butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud.
Once all the sugar is added, beat the frosting on high speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract, salt, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. If you want a thinner consistency, add an extra tablespoon of cream.
Assembling the Cake
Layering the Cake with Frosting
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of buttercream frosting on top.
Place the second cake layer on top and press down gently.
Frost the entire cake, smoothing the edges and top with an offset spatula.
Decorating Tips to Make It Stunning
Sprinkle more rainbow sprinkles on top and around the edges of the cake for an extra festive look.
Pipe frosting on the edges in fun patterns or swirls.
For a more intricate design, add some edible glitter for sparkle.
Creative Variations
Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free flour blend that works as a 1:1 substitute for all-purpose flour.
Vegan Alternative
Replace the butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk. Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
Adding Flavors to Your Funfetti Cake
Citrus Funfetti: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a fresh twist.
Chocolate Funfetti: Add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolaty variation.
Serving and Storage Tips
Best Ways to Serve
Serve the cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat.
How to Store for Maximum Freshness
Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you need to refrigerate it, store in the fridge for up to 5 days (bring to room temperature before serving).
Conclusion
This fluffy Funfetti birthday cake is sure to bring joy to any birthday party. With its light, moist texture and colorful sprinkles, it’s a fun and festive treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for kids or adults, this cake is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and even more fun to eat!
FAQs
1. Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers ahead of time and frost them the next day.
2. What’s the Secret to a Fluffy Cake?
The key to a fluffy Funfetti cake is using room temperature ingredients and mixing the batter just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense.
3. How Do I Keep the Sprinkles from Bleeding?
To prevent bleeding, be sure to use jimmies or nonpareil sprinkles and fold them in gently. Don’t mix too much.
4. Can I Use Other Sprinkles Instead of Rainbow Ones?
Yes! Feel free to use pastel sprinkles for a soft look, or themed sprinkles for special occasions like holidays or themed parties.
5. How Long Does This Cake Stay Fresh?
This cake stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge.