Quick & Colorful Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe for Cheerful Bakers

Sweet celebrations call for a nostalgic funfetti layer cake that sparkles with childhood memories and pure joy.

Colorful sprinkles dance through soft, tender layers of vanilla-kissed cake, creating a vibrant dessert that lights up any special occasion.

The classic birthday cake recipe brings instant smiles and excitement to every gathering.

Bakery-style layers stack high with creamy frosting that captures pure happiness between each colorful crumb.

Whipping up this delightful cake takes simple ingredients and a dash of playful spirit.

Bakers of all skill levels can create this showstopping dessert that promises to delight everyone at the table.

Slice into pure happiness and let the sprinkles tell a story of sweet celebration.

Funfetti Layer Cake Ingredient List

• All-Purpose Flour: A key ingredient that provides structure and texture to the cake.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and creates a light, fluffy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

• Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure to the cake.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a classic, warm flavor to the cake.
• Milk: Helps create a smooth, moist cake batter.

• Rainbow Sprinkles: Adds color and fun festive elements to the Funfetti cake.

• Butter: Creates a creamy, rich base for the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a smooth frosting texture.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and helps achieve the right frosting consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.

• Extra Sprinkles: Provides a decorative and playful finishing touch to the cake.

Funfetti Cake Instructions to Make You Smile

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Warm up the oven to 350°F.

Grease three 8-inch round cake pans thoroughly to ensure easy cake removal.

Set pans aside on a clean counter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt

Ensure ingredients are well combined with no lumps.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale yellow.

This process helps create a soft cake texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add eggs one at a time, mixing completely after each addition.

Pour in vanilla extract and blend smoothly.

Step 5: Combine Cake Batter

Slowly add dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients.

Pour in milk gradually while mixing.

Fold rainbow sprinkles into the batter gently to distribute evenly.

Step 6: Bake Cake Layers

Divide batter equally among prepared cake pans.

Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool Cake Layers

Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes.

Transfer to wire cooling racks and let them reach room temperature completely.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

Beat butter until creamy and smooth.

• Powdered sugar
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract

Mix until frosting becomes light and spreadable.

Step 9: Assemble and Decorate

Place first cake layer on serving plate.

Spread frosting between layers and over entire cake.

Sprinkle additional rainbow sprinkles on top and sides for extra festive look.

Tips for Colorful, Soft Funfetti Layers

• Use exactly 1/2 cup of rainbow sprinkles to maintain the perfect color distribution and texture without weighing down the cake batter.
• Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for smoother mixing and a more even cake texture.
• Lightly coat sprinkles in a tablespoon of flour before folding into batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
• Refrigerate cake layers for 15-20 minutes before frosting to create a more stable surface and prevent crumbs from mixing into the frosting.
• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain maximum freshness and soft texture.

New Ideas for Funfetti Layer Cakes

• Gluten-Free Funfetti Cake: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive bakers.
• Vegan Rainbow Celebration Cake: Swap butter with coconut oil, eggs with applesauce or flax eggs, and use dairy-free milk and vegan butter for frosting.
• Low-Sugar Sprinkle Cake: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use sugar-free sprinkles for diabetic-friendly option.
• Dairy-Free Confetti Cake: Use almond milk instead of regular milk, coconut cream for frosting, and plant-based margarine to replace butter.

How to Serve a Festive Funfetti Cake

• Sprinkle Party Platter: Serve slices on colorful plates with extra rainbow sprinkles scattered around for a festive birthday or celebration vibe.
• Playful Ice Cream Partner: Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla or birthday cake ice cream to enhance the sweet, fun flavor profile.
• Whimsical Beverage Companion: Complement the cake with milkshakes, chocolate milk, or sparkling strawberry drinks that match its cheerful aesthetic.
• Dessert Display Delight: Create a stunning cake presentation by placing the Funfetti cake on a decorative cake stand with candles or additional sprinkles for visual appeal.

Storage Tips for Leftover Funfetti Cake

• Store the cake in an airtight container, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the cake away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
• Wrap the fully frosted cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

• Can I make this cake without sprinkles?

While sprinkles are key to funfetti cake, you can use white or clear nonpareils if colored sprinkles aren’t available.

• How do I prevent sprinkles from bleeding color into the batter?

Use high-quality, gel food coloring sprinkles and fold them in gently at the very end to minimize color bleeding.

• What makes the cake layers rise well?

The combination of baking powder and properly creamed butter helps create a light, fluffy texture that rises beautifully.

• Is this recipe good for beginners?

Yes, this funfetti cake recipe is straightforward with clear steps, making it perfect for home bakers of all skill levels who want to create a fun, colorful dessert.

Funfetti: Let the Celebration Begin!

• Celebrate Any Moment: Bursting with colorful sprinkles, this cake turns ordinary days into festive occasions, perfect for birthdays, parties, or just because.
• Beginner Baker's Delight: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe welcoming for novice bakers wanting to create something spectacular without stress.
• Kid-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Vibrant rainbow sprinkles and sweet vanilla flavor guarantee smiles from children and adults alike, making it a guaranteed hit at gatherings.
• Quick Baking Satisfaction: With minimal prep and basic mixing techniques, you can whip up this showstopping dessert in under an hour, transforming simple ingredients into a stunning treat.

Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sweet layers of Funfetti cake dance with playful sprinkles, creating a celebration of childhood memories. Rainbow-colored confetti nestled between creamy frosting promises pure joy in every delightful slice you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

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Cake Ingredients:

• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ¾ cups (350 g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 ½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk (room temperature)
• ½ cup (120 g) sour cream (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup (135 g) rainbow sprinkles (jimmies sprinkles)

Frosting Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (340 g) unsalted butter (softened)
• 5 cups (600 g) powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream
• Pinch of salt

Decorating Ingredients:

• Extra rainbow sprinkles

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Instructions

1. Prepare workspace by heating oven to 350°F and coating three 8-inch cake pans with non-stick spray.
2. Combine dry ingredients including flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to eliminate potential lumps.
3. Cream butter and sugar in a separate large bowl until light and airy, creating a fluffy base for the cake.
4. Incorporate eggs individually into the butter mixture, ensuring complete integration after each addition, then blend in vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredient mixture and milk into the wet ingredients, mixing gently to maintain a smooth, consistent batter without overmixing.
6. Gently fold rainbow sprinkles into the batter, distributing them evenly to ensure colorful specks throughout the cake.
7. Distribute batter equally among prepared cake pans, creating uniform layers for consistent baking.
8. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick that comes out clean.
9. Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to wire cooling racks to reach room temperature.
10. Prepare frosting by whipping butter until smooth and creamy, gradually incorporating powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
11. Once cakes are completely cooled, layer and frost each cake tier, ensuring even coverage.
12. Garnish with additional sprinkles across the top and sides for a festive, colorful finish.

Notes

• Ensure sprinkles are evenly distributed throughout the batter to prevent sinking and create a uniform colorful appearance.
• Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and better cake texture, especially butter and eggs.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for structural support.
• Chill cake layers before frosting to minimize crumbs and create cleaner, more professional-looking decorations.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 522
• Sugar: 48 g
• Sodium: 199 mg
• Fat: 33 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 57 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg