Funfetti cake is a celebration in itself, known for its colorful sprinkles scattered throughout a deliciously moist and fluffy cake. Perfect for birthdays, parties, or any festive occasion, this cake is guaranteed to bring joy and smiles to everyone. This guide will take you through the steps to create a homemade Funfetti cake that rivals any store-bought version, ensuring a fun baking experience and delightful results.
Ingredients for Funfetti Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Additional sprinkles for decorating
How to Make Funfetti Cake
Preparing the Cake:
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a smooth and well-incorporated batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Add Vanilla and Sprinkles: Stir in the vanilla extract and gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The tops should be lightly golden.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Frosting:
- Beat Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
- Add Sugar and Cream: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Increase the speed to high and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Assembling the Cake:
- Level the Cakes: If necessary, level the tops of the cooled cakes using a serrated knife to ensure an even surface for stacking.
- Frost the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake evenly.
- Decorate: Finish by decorating the cake with additional rainbow sprinkles, pressing them gently into the frosting to adhere.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve your beautiful Funfetti cake. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
About the Main Ingredients
Butter
Butter is a key ingredient in both the cake and the frosting, providing richness and a tender crumb. Using unsalted butter allows for better control of the salt content in the recipe. Softening the butter before mixing helps to create a smooth and fluffy batter and frosting.
Granulated Sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the cake and helps to achieve a light and airy texture. Beating the sugar with the butter incorporates air into the mixture, which is crucial for a fluffy cake.
Eggs
Eggs contribute to the structure and moisture of the cake. Adding them one at a time ensures they are well incorporated, preventing the batter from curdling.
Milk
Whole milk adds moisture and richness to the cake. It helps to create a tender crumb and enhances the overall flavor.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the buttery richness of the cake. It’s also used in the frosting to enhance the overall taste.
Rainbow Sprinkles
Rainbow sprinkles are the signature ingredient in Funfetti cake, adding bursts of color and fun to each slice. Gently folding them into the batter ensures they are evenly distributed without bleeding their color.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar is used in the frosting, providing a smooth and creamy texture. It dissolves easily, making it perfect for creating a light and fluffy frosting.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is added to the frosting to achieve a creamy and spreadable consistency. It also adds richness, making the frosting smooth and delicious.
By following this detailed guide, you can create a homemade Funfetti cake that is sure to impress at any celebration. Enjoy the process of baking and decorating this delightful cake, and savor each bite of the delicious, colorful treat!
