The sweet aroma of vanilla fills the air as the oven warms up, signaling that something magical is about to happen. Picture a slice of funfetti cake—a fluffy vanilla sponge studded with colorful sprinkles that dance like confetti at a celebration.
This delightful treat is not just a dessert it’s an experience filled with laughter and nostalgia. Whether it’s a birthday party or a Tuesday that needs brightening, this funfetti cake brings joy to every occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This funfetti cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels
- Its cheerful colors and fluffy texture brighten any celebration
- The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize the sprinkles for any theme or occasion
- Plus, it tastes as good as it looks
I still remember the first time I made a funfetti cake for my best friend’s birthday. The look on her face when she saw those colorful sprinkles was priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour; it helps create a light and fluffy cake texture.
- Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for maximum rise in your cake.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter blends perfectly into the batter for rich flavor.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; consider using fine sugar for smoother mixing.
- Eggs: Large eggs are best; they contribute moisture and richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor profile significantly.
- Whole Milk: Full-fat milk keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Rainbow Sprinkles: The star of our show. Choose your favorite kind for extra flair.
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 baking pans with butter or nonstick spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. This mixture should be pale yellow and have increased in volume.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Gradually add eggs one at a time to incorporate fully before adding vanilla extract. The batter should now be smooth and creamy.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Alternate adding dry ingredients with milk into the butter mixture. Start and end with dry ingredients while mixing gently until just combined.
Add Sprinkles: Gently fold in those rainbow sprinkles using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Try not to overmix to keep them from breaking apart.
Pour the batter into your prepared pans evenly before popping them into your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Once out of the oven, let cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.
Now you’re ready to frost. Whether you go classic buttercream or something more adventurous like cream cheese frosting, this funfetti cake is sure to impress everyone.
And there you have it—a simple yet delightful funfetti cake that will bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite.
You Must Know
- Funfetti cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration
- Vibrant sprinkles elevate the cake’s look and taste, making it perfect for birthdays or any joyful occasion
- The aroma of vanilla and sugar will fill your kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while mixing your batter. This ensures an even bake and fluffy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique twist on flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover funfetti cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the fluffiest funfetti cake, ensure eggs are at room temperature before mixing
- Use high-quality sprinkles to maintain color during baking
- Don’t over-mix your batter; this keeps it light and airy
Baking this funfetti cake reminds me of my childhood birthday parties where everyone would clamor for seconds—those sprinkles really do bring joy.
FAQ
Can I make funfetti cake without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with applesauce or mashed bananas for a vegan option.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
Mix milk with vinegar or lemon juice as a quick buttermilk alternative.
How do I prevent my funfetti cake from drying out?
Keep an eye on baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Funfetti Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
A delightful dessert bursting with colorful sprinkles, perfect for birthdays and celebrations. Easy to make, it’s sure to bring joy to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup rainbow sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round baking pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Gradually add dry ingredients alternately with milk, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in rainbow sprinkles.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let 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 slice (85g)
- Calories: 319
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 182mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 79mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, substitute vanilla extract with almond extract. - Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.