Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe

If you are looking to brighten up any celebration or just add a pop of joy to your day, this Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe is totally the way to go. Bursting with colorful sprinkles baked into moist, tender layers and cloaked in a creamy, dreamy vanilla buttercream, this cake is an instant mood lifter. The magic of this recipe is in how it combines simple, classic ingredients to create a gorgeous, festive treat that tastes as good as it looks. Whether you’re a baking pro or just starting out, this funfetti cake will have you smiling from the very first slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and cheerful appearance that defines this cake’s charm.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone for tender, fluffy cake layers.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully for that light crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds extra lift and keeps the crumb soft.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives the cake richness and moisture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens while tenderizing the crumb.
• 4 large eggs: Adds structure and helps bind everything together smoothly.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Infuses the classic vanilla flavor for warmth and aroma.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Brings subtle tang and tenderizes the cake beautifully.
• 1/2 cup sprinkles (jimmies or nonpareils): The colorful stars that make this cake so festive.
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar: Essential for creating that silky-smooth buttercream frosting.
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream: Adds creaminess and perfect spreadability to the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enriches the frosting with comforting vanilla notes.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Intensifies the frosting’s flavors by balancing sweetness.

How to Make Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for an easy release. Whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl to evenly distribute the leavening agents—this ensures a consistent rise across the layers.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy. Gradually add your granulated sugar, beating the mixture until it feels light, fluffy, and almost cloud-like. This creaming step is crucial as it introduces air, which helps the layers bake up tender and airy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, add the eggs into the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each to incorporate air and maintain a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract; this simple addition elevates the cake’s flavor with a rich, inviting aroma.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk in two parts, starting and ending with the flour. This technique helps you avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake. Mix just until everything is combined and the batter is smooth.

Step 5: Fold in Egg Whites and Sprinkles

Whisk egg whites separately until they hold soft peaks—this is what will give your cake that extra lift. Gently fold them into your batter to keep it light. Finally, fold in the sprinkles carefully so they’re evenly distributed without bleeding their colors into the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean. This baking time ensures a moist yet properly cooked crumb. Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely—cooling is key to a flawless frosting application.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

Beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Slowly add the confectioners’ sugar, along with heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Keep beating until you get that dreamy, fluffy texture that’s perfect for spreading and piping—this frosting is the lush finishing touch your Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe deserves.

Step 8: Assemble and Decorate

Once cool, frost each layer generously. Spread frosting evenly between the layers, then coat the sides and top with the remaining frosting. For an extra playful touch, sprinkle some more colorful sprinkles on top to really capture the joyful spirit of the Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe.

How to Serve Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkles are an obvious but essential garnish here—they echo the sprinkles inside the cake and add a festive crunch. You could also add edible glitter or tiny sugar pearls for a little extra sparkle that captures the celebratory vibe perfectly.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add a creamy contrast. Fresh berries or a light fruit compote can also bring a fresh, tangy element that complements the sweet vanilla layers beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices on colorful plates or wrapped with a bright ribbon for party favors. For a show-stopping presentation, stack mini cupcakes around the cake or pipe rosettes of frosting on top with sprinkles for added dimension and whimsy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe keeps well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping it chilled preserves the freshness of the frosting and prevents the cake from drying out, so every bite stays delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze this funfetti treat by wrapping the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and assembling to enjoy that just-baked flavor and texture.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, bring room temperature cake slices to life by warming them for about 10 seconds in the microwave. This makes the frosting soft and the cake extra moist, as if it were fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar added to a cup of milk to mimic buttermilk’s acidity. It helps the cake stay tender and fluffy just like the original Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe.

What type of sprinkles works best in this recipe?

Jimmies or nonpareils are ideal because they hold their shape and color when baked. Avoid using larger or chocolate sprinkles as they may bleed or change texture during baking.

How do I prevent sprinkles from sinking to the bottom?

Toss your sprinkles lightly in a little flour before folding them into the batter; this simple trick helps keep them suspended throughout the layers.

Can I make this Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking to achieve similar structure and crumb without gluten.

Is it better to use a hand mixer or stand mixer?

Either works great! A stand mixer can make the creaming and frosting steps easier and faster, but a hand mixer gets the job done beautifully if that’s what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

This Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe has everything you want in a celebration cake: fun, flavor, and that irresistible homemade charm. It’s proof that with simple ingredients and a little love, you can create something truly magical that brings smiles around the table. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every colorful, creamy bite just as much as I do!

Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe

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4.4 from 44 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This delightful Funfetti Layer Cake from Sally’s Baking Addiction is a festive and colorful treat perfect for celebrations. Moist vanilla cake layers are studded with joyful sprinkles and frosted with a smooth, creamy buttercream icing. The classic flavors combined with the pop of sprinkles make this cake irresistible for all ages.

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Ingredients

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Cake

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup sprinkles (jimmies or nonpareils)

Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully combined. Then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, and mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
6. Fold in Egg Whites and Sprinkles: Whisk the egg whites separately until they become fluffy and hold soft peaks. Gently fold these into the batter to add lightness. Then carefully stir in the sprinkles so they are evenly distributed.
7. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes to firm up. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
9. Prepare the Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
10. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread frosting on top. Repeat with remaining layers. Use the remaining frosting to cover the sides and top evenly.
11. Decorate: Optionally garnish the finished cake with extra sprinkles for a festive look.

Notes

• Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for best texture and mixability.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
• Use parchment paper for easier cake removal from pans.
• For a more vibrant sprinkle appearance, use quality non-melting sprinkles.
• Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Bring refrigerated cake to room temperature before serving for optimal softness.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Cake
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American