Why You’ll Love This Funfetti Cake
This funfetti cake stands out as a fun and easy treat that’s perfect for any celebration. You’ll appreciate how simple it is to whip up, especially if you’re new to baking or short on time. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special for home cooks, busy parents, and more.
One of the best parts is the ease of preparation. This funfetti cake recipe comes together quickly with everyday items you might already have on hand, so you can focus on the joy of baking rather than gathering rare ingredients. It’s all about creating a fun, colorful cake that brings smiles without much fuss think of it as your go-to for birthdays or casual get-togethers.
Another highlight is the health benefits tied to thoughtful tweaks. While it’s a treat, you can opt for versions that sneak in a bit more goodness, like using whole ingredients for a slightly lighter option. This makes it appealing for diet-conscious folks who still want to enjoy a sweet moment.
The versatility really seals the deal. You can adapt this recipe for various needs, such as vegan or gluten-free swaps, so everyone at the table feels included. Plus, the distinctive flavor from those rainbow sprinkles adds a burst of color and fun that elevates any occasion, making it a favorite among baking enthusiasts and families alike.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Funfetti Cake
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Funfetti Cake
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Funfetti Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Funfetti Cake
- 5. Mastering Funfetti Cake: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Funfetti Cake: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Funfetti Cake
- 8. Funfetti Cake
Essential Ingredients for Funfetti Cake
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a moist and colorful funfetti cake that impresses. I’ll walk you through the main components, focusing on what you need for both the cake and the frosting. Remember, using precise measurements helps ensure your cake turns out just right every time.
For the Cake
- 3 ¾ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 ⅓ cups (466g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- ⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 ⅓ cups (320ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 7 large egg whites, room temperature
- ⅔ cup (100g) rainbow jimmies
For the Frosting
- 1 pound (450g) unsalted butter
- 2 pounds (900g) powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream
- Rainbow sprinkles for decoration
If you’re adapting for special diets, here are some swaps. For a vegan twist, replace egg whites with applesauce and use plant-based milk and butter. Gluten-free bakers can swap all-purpose flour for a certified blend to keep things light and airy.
How to Prepare the Perfect Funfetti Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started with this funfetti cake recipe is straightforward and fun. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper. This step helps your cake release easily and ensures even baking.
Next, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. This mix creates a fluffy base for your cake. In another bowl, beat the sugar, butter, and vegetable oil with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy, which should take about 3 minutes to get that perfect texture.
Add the egg whites gradually in three parts, mixing on low speed between each addition, then blend in the vanilla extract until the batter is nice and fluffy. For a link to another easy cake idea, check out our pineapple sunshine cake for more inspiration on fruity twists. Now, alternate adding the flour mixture in thirds and the buttermilk in halves, mixing on low speed and scraping the bowl as needed. Gently fold in the rainbow jimmies to keep their colors vibrant.
Divide the batter evenly among the pans, tap them to remove air bubbles, and bake for 32 to 38 minutes. Rotate the pans after 20 minutes and check if they’re done by gently pressing the center they should spring back. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then move them to wire racks and remove the parchment for the frosting step.
For the frosting, beat the butter and salt until soft and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar on low speed, incorporating the heavy cream one tablespoon at a time to keep it creamy. Add the vanilla extract and beat on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s fluffy. To assemble, place one cake layer on a stand, spread 1 cup of frosting on top, and repeat with the remaining layers. Frost the whole cake, reserve some for piping, and decorate with sprinkles for that funfetti flair.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Funfetti Cake
Making this funfetti cake work for your needs is simple with a few tweaks. Start with protein alternatives like using flaxseed meal mixed with water for vegan options or almond flour for gluten-free versions. These changes keep the cake moist and delicious without losing its charm.
For vegetable, sauce, and seasoning modifications, try adding mashed bananas or applesauce to boost moisture and flavor. You can swap traditional frosting for coconut cream to make it dairy-free, and use agave syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetness adjustment. This flexibility means busy parents or health-focused readers can enjoy a colorful cake that fits their lifestyle.
Mastering Funfetti Cake: Advanced Tips and Variations
Taking your funfetti cake to the next level involves some pro techniques. Always sift your dry ingredients to avoid lumps and use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter that bakes evenly. For a fun twist, experiment with flavors like almond or lemon extract to personalize your cake recipe.
Presentation can make all the difference, so try garnishing with fresh berries or a sprinkle of edible glitter for special events. If you’re planning ahead, bake the layers in advance, wrap them tightly, and freeze them; just thaw fully before frosting. For an internal link to a complementary recipe, our blueberry cream cheese crumb cake offers great ideas for berry additions that pair well with funfetti themes.
Here are some quick tips to remember: sift dry ingredients for lump-free batter, use room-temperature items for better mixing, and play with extracts for unique tastes. Don’t forget, decorating with extras like berries adds a festive touch that’s sure to wow your guests.
How to Store Funfetti Cake: Best Practices
Keeping your funfetti cake fresh is easy with the right storage methods. For instance, pop the frosted cake in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should stay good for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain that moist cake texture everyone loves.
If you’re freezing, wrap the layers or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn, and it can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slices briefly in the microwave. For meal prep, cut into portions and store in individual containers for quick treats during the week.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Funfetti Cake
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for Funfetti cake?
Yes, you can substitute cake flour for all-purpose flour in a Funfetti cake with a 1:1 swap by weight. Cake flour has a lower protein content, which results in a lighter, softer texture. Make sure to measure by weight rather than volume to maintain the recipe balance.
What type of sprinkles should I use so they don’t bleed into the cake batter?
Rainbow jimmies are the best choice for Funfetti cakes because they hold their shape and color during baking. Unlike nonpareils or colored sugar, jimmies are less likely to bleed, preventing the batter from turning a muddy color.
How long should I bake Funfetti cake if I use 9-inch cake pans?
When baking Funfetti cake in 9-inch pans, reduce the baking time by 5 to 10 minutes from the original recipe. The layers will be thinner and cook faster, so start checking for doneness around 25 minutes using a toothpick inserted in the center.
What’s a good substitute for buttermilk if I don’t have any on hand?
To replace buttermilk, stir 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into 1⅓ cups of whole milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This acidic mix mimics buttermilk’s tang and acidity, which helps tenderize the cake and activate baking soda.
Can I make a Funfetti sheet cake instead of layered cakes?
Yes, bake Funfetti cake batter in a greased 9×13-inch pan at 350°F for about 45 minutes. To prevent over-browning, tent the cake with foil halfway through baking. Use half the frosting amount called for in layered recipes to suit a single-layer sheet cake.
Funfetti Cake
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
🎉 Celebrate special occasions with this Funfetti Cake that delivers moist, fluffy layers filled with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
🌈 Easy-to-follow steps make this vibrant, crowd-pleasing cake perfect for birthdays and celebrations with family and friends.
Ingredients
3 ¾ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 ⅓ cups (466g) granulated sugar
1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable oil
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 ⅓ cups (320ml) buttermilk, room temperature
7 large egg whites, room temperature
⅔ cup (100g) rainbow jimmies
1 pound (450g) unsalted butter
2 pounds (900g) powdered sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream
Rainbow sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
1-Getting started with this funfetti cake recipe is straightforward and fun. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper. This step helps your cake release easily and ensures even baking.
2-Next, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. This mix creates a fluffy base for your cake. In another bowl, beat the sugar, butter, and vegetable oil with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy, which should take about 3 minutes to get that perfect texture.
3-Add the egg whites gradually in three parts, mixing on low speed between each addition, then blend in the vanilla extract until the batter is nice and fluffy. For a link to another easy cake idea, check out our pineapple sunshine cake for more inspiration on fruity twists. Now, alternate adding the flour mixture in thirds and the buttermilk in halves, mixing on low speed and scraping the bowl as needed. Gently fold in the rainbow jimmies to keep their colors vibrant.
4-Divide the batter evenly among the pans, tap them to remove air bubbles, and bake for 32 to 38 minutes. Rotate the pans after 20 minutes and check if they’re done by gently pressing the center they should spring back. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then move them to wire racks and remove the parchment for the frosting step.
5-For the frosting, beat the butter and salt until soft and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar on low speed, incorporating the heavy cream one tablespoon at a time to keep it creamy. Add the vanilla extract and beat on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s fluffy. To assemble, place one cake layer on a stand, spread 1 cup of frosting on top, and repeat with the remaining layers. Frost the whole cake, reserve some for piping, and decorate with sprinkles for that funfetti flair.
Notes
⚖️ Use a kitchen scale for accurate flour measurement to avoid dryness.
🌡️ Ensure butter, egg whites, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
🌈 Use fresh rainbow jimmies to preserve color and texture during baking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooling time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 1129
- Sugar: 123g
- Sodium: 446mg
- Fat: 55g
- Saturated Fat: 32g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 154g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 129mg
Keywords: Funfetti Cake, Celebration Cake, Moist Cake, Colorful Cake