Funfetti Vanilla Cake

Cake Recipe

Funfetti Vanilla Cake

Soft, Colorful & Celebration-Worthy Vanilla Layer Cake

Bring instant joy to any celebration with this delightful Funfetti Vanilla Cake. Made with a tender vanilla sponge and colorful rainbow sprinkles baked right into the batter, this cake is fun, festive, and incredibly delicious. Finished with a smooth vanilla buttercream frosting and extra sprinkles on top, it’s the perfect centerpiece for birthdays, parties, baby showers, or any occasion that calls for a little extra happiness.

Recipe Information

Details Value
Prep Time 25 Minutes
Bake Time 30 Minutes
Cooling Time 1 Hour
Total Time 2 Hours
Servings 12–14 Slices
Difficulty Easy

Ingredients

For the Funfetti Vanilla Cake

  • 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 2½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
  • ½ cup (85g) rainbow sprinkles

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting (Optional)

  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3–4 tablespoons (45–60ml) milk or cream
  • Pinch of salt

For Decoration

  • Extra rainbow sprinkles
  • Buttercream swirls (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Soft and fluffy vanilla cake layers
  • Loaded with colorful rainbow sprinkles
  • Perfect for birthdays and celebrations
  • Easy homemade buttercream frosting
  • Beautiful bakery-style presentation

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans

Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).

Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until pale, light, and fluffy.

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

Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together:

  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Mix until evenly combined.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk.

Mix gently until the batter becomes smooth and fully incorporated.

Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender cake texture.

Step 5: Add the Sprinkles

Fold the rainbow sprinkles into the batter using a spatula.

Mix gently to prevent the colors from bleeding into the batter.

Step 6: Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.

Smooth the tops and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Vanilla Buttercream

Step 1

Beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.

Step 2

Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed.

Step 3

Add vanilla extract, milk (or cream), and a pinch of salt.

Step 4

Beat for 3–5 minutes until the frosting becomes light, fluffy, and spreadable.

Assemble the Cake

  1. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate.
  2. Spread an even layer of buttercream frosting on top.
  3. Add the second cake layer and repeat.
  4. Place the final cake layer on top.
  5. Cover the entire cake with frosting.
  6. Smooth the sides and top using an offset spatula.

Decorate

Finish with a generous sprinkle of colorful rainbow sprinkles across the top and sides.

For a bakery-style finish, pipe decorative buttercream swirls around the edges and add extra sprinkles for a festive touch.

Pro Tips

✔ Use jimmies-style sprinkles for the best results, as they bleed less during baking.

✔ Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.

✔ Do not overmix once the sprinkles are added.

✔ Chill the frosted cake for 20 minutes before slicing for cleaner layers.

✔ Add a few drops of almond extract alongside vanilla for extra flavor depth.

Storage

Room Temperature

Store covered for up to 2 days.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezer

Unfrosted cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions

  • Birthday parties
  • Baby showers
  • Graduation celebrations
  • Family gatherings
  • Weekend dessert tables

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