Funfetti Ice Cream Cake Recipe With Colorful Sprinkles 2024

Name: Funfetti Ice Cream Cake
Prep time: PT-491633H12M51S
Cook time: PT-491634H27M51S
Total time: PT-491634H27M51S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; – 1/2 cup vegetable oil; – 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; – 2 large eggs; – 2 egg yolks; – 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; – 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt; – 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; – 2 teaspoons baking powder; – 1 teaspoon baking soda; – 1 teaspoon salt; – 1 1/3 cups buttermilk or milk; – 1/2 cup sprinkles (preferably jimmies to avoid color bleeding); – 1 1/2 quarts (48 oz) ice cream of choice; – 1 3/4 cups heavy whipping cream; – 1 cup powdered sugar; – 1/2 cup sprinkles

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Why You’ll Love This Funfetti Ice Cream Cake

Funfetti Ice Cream Cake combines the festive charm of sprinkles with the creamy indulgence of ice cream, creating a dessert that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. This delightful treat is perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or any celebration that calls for something special.

Ease of Preparation

This funfetti ice cream cake recipe is incredibly simple and quick to make, requiring minimal cooking time and basic ingredients, perfect for busy schedules. Despite its impressive appearance, the recipe is approachable even for novice bakers. The step-by-step process is straightforward, and the results are consistently impressive. With just a few hours of preparation time (mostly chilling), you can create a stunning dessert that looks like it came from a professional bakery.

Health Benefits

Incorporating this funfetti ice cream cake into your dessert options allows a balanced treat with opportunities to choose healthier ingredient substitutions, supporting wellness while enjoying a flavorful dessert. By using quality ingredients and being mindful of portion sizes, you can indulge without guilt. The cake portion provides carbohydrates for energy, while the ice cream offers calcium and protein. You can also adjust the recipe to reduce sugar or incorporate whole grains without sacrificing flavor.

Versatility

The funfetti ice cream cake is adaptable to various dietary requirements such as vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie, making it ideal for different preferences and needs. Whether you’re hosting a party with diverse dietary restrictions or simply want to experiment with flavors, this recipe serves as an excellent base for customization. The combination of cake and ice cream creates endless possibilities for flavor combinations, decorations, and presentation styles.

Distinctive Flavor

Featuring a unique blend of colorful sprinkles and creamy ice cream layers, this cake stands out with a delightful taste and appealing texture that pleases both kids and adults. The contrast between the soft, moist cake and the smooth, cold ice cream creates a sensory experience that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The sprinkles add not just visual appeal but also a subtle crunch that enhances the overall texture profile.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Funfetti Ice Cream Cake
2. Essential Ingredients for Funfetti Ice Cream Cake
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Funfetti Ice Cream Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Funfetti Ice Cream Cake
5. Mastering Funfetti Ice Cream Cake: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Funfetti Ice Cream Cake: Best Practices
7. Nutritional Information
8. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Funfetti Ice Cream Cake
9. Funfetti Ice Cream Cake

Essential Ingredients for Funfetti Ice Cream Cake

The success of your Funfetti Ice Cream Cake depends largely on using quality ingredients. Each component plays a specific role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s break down what you’ll need for each part of this delightful dessert.

For the Cake:

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
2 egg yolks
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/3 cups buttermilk or milk
1/2 cup sprinkles (preferably jimmies to avoid color bleeding)

For the Filling and Topping:

1 1/2 quarts (48 oz) ice cream of choice
1 3/4 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup sprinkles

Special Dietary Options

If you’re looking to accommodate specific dietary needs, this recipe offers several flexible options:

Vegan: Use coconut milk ice cream and egg-free cake mix or make a vegan cake batter.
Gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free cake mix or use a gluten-free flour blend for the cake portion.
Low-calorie: Opt for light ice cream and low-fat cream alternatives.

Remember that ingredient quality matters. Using high-quality vanilla extract and fresh, vibrant sprinkles will make a noticeable difference in both appearance and taste.

How to Prepare the Perfect Funfetti Ice Cream Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a Funfetti Ice Cream Cake might seem intimidating, but breaking the process down into manageable steps makes it achievable for bakers of all skill levels. Follow this comprehensive guide to create a dessert that will be the highlight of any gathering.

Preparing the Cake Layers

The foundation of your ice cream cake is a moist, flavorful funfetti cake. Here’s how to prepare the perfect cake layers:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch cake pans thoroughly and dust with flour, lining the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, melted unsalted butter, large eggs, egg yolks, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is light in color.
Add the sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt) to the mixture and beat until combined.
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk (or milk) to the wet mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the sprinkles by hand, using jimmies to prevent color bleeding.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the cakes in the pans for 15 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

For more cake techniques, check out this triple chocolate cake recipe which demonstrates similar layer preparation methods.

Assembling and Filling the Cake

Once your cake layers are completely cooled, it’s time to assemble the ice cream cake. This is where the magic happens:

Allow the ice cream to soften for 15-20 minutes for easier spreading. You want it pliable but not completely melted.
Level the cooled cake layers by trimming any domes with a serrated knife. This makes for even stacking.
Line an 8-inch springform pan with plastic wrap and place a cake board at the bottom for support.
Place one cake layer in the pan and spread the softened ice cream evenly over it, creating a smooth layer.
Place the second cake layer inverted on top of the ice cream. This makes the flat bottom of the cake face upward for easier decorating.
Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap twice to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Freeze for 2 to 4 hours until firm. For best results, leave it overnight.

Decorating the Cake

The final step is adding the whipped cream topping and decorations. This is where you can let your creativity shine:

Chill a mixing bowl and beaters before starting to help the cream whip properly.
Beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form, then gradually add the powdered sugar and sprinkles until stiff peaks form.
Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with your desired tip.
Remove the cake from the pan and pipe whipped cream along the edges and top.
Smooth gently with a spatula, and decorate with additional whipped cream and sprinkles as desired.
Refreeze the decorated cake for 30 to 60 minutes before serving to make sure the ice cream is firm.

For professional results, try using a hot knife to smooth the edges of the whipped cream. Simply dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between passes for perfectly smooth sides.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Funfetti Ice Cream Cake

One of the wonderful aspects of this Funfetti Ice Cream Cake recipe is its versatility. With a few simple substitutions, you can adapt it to accommodate various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here are some options to consider based on your specific requirements.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

The main components of the cake can be easily swapped to suit different dietary preferences:

Replace dairy ice cream with coconut or almond milk-based alternatives for vegan options. These plant-based ice creams come in various flavors and freeze well, creating a delicious alternative to traditional dairy ice cream.
Use gluten-free cake mix or a combination of gluten-free flours (like rice flour, almond flour, and tapioca starch) to accommodate gluten intolerance. Add xanthan gum if your flour blend doesn’t already contain it to help bind the ingredients.
For a lower-sugar version, use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in both the cake and whipped cream. Pair this with a no-sugar-added ice cream option.
If you’re avoiding eggs, use a commercial egg replacer or a mixture of flaxseed meal and water. Each egg can be replaced with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

While this dessert typically does not include vegetables, variations with fruit sauces like strawberry or raspberry can add freshness:

Consider adding a layer of fruit compote or sauce between the cake and ice cream for a fruity twist. This not only adds flavor but also creates an interesting visual contrast.
Adjust sweetness by reducing the amount of sugar in the cake or using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey (though this may slightly alter the texture).
Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter for a more complex flavor profile. These spices complement the vanilla and sprinkles beautifully.
For those looking to add nutritional value, consider stirring in some finely grated zucchini or carrots into the cake batter. These vegetables add moisture and nutrients without significantly changing the taste.

These substitutions maintain the essence of the funfetti ice cream cake while offering flexibility for diverse dietary requirements. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect version for your needs.

Did you know? This no-bake chocolate eclair cake also offers great flexibility for dietary substitutions, showcasing how versatile dessert recipes can be when adapted to meet specific needs.

Mastering Funfetti Ice Cream Cake: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you might want to try more sophisticated techniques and creative variations. These expert tips will help you take your Funfetti Ice Cream Cake to the next level, impressing family and friends with your baking skills.

Pro Cooking Techniques

Improve your Funfetti Ice Cream Cake with these professional techniques:

Consider making your own ice cream for a truly premium result. A high-quality homemade ice cream will have a richer flavor and smoother texture than most store-bought options. You can control the ingredients to create a flavor profile that perfectly complements the funfetti cake.
When assembling the cake, use an offset spatula to create perfectly even layers of ice cream. This guarantees structural integrity and a beautiful cross-section when sliced.
For an extra smooth whipped cream frosting, try the stabilized whipped cream technique. Dissolve a teaspoon of gelatin in a little water, let it cool slightly, and then beat it into the cream. This prevents the frosting from weeping or losing shape.
Practice temperature management. Keep all components cold until the moment they’re needed, and work quickly during assembly to prevent melting.

Flavor Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Experiment with different ice cream flavors like chocolate, strawberry, mint chip, or cookies and cream. Each creates a unique taste experience when paired with the classic funfetti cake.
Create a themed cake by matching sprinkles to holidays or events. Red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or team colors for sports celebrations.
Add mix-ins to the ice cream layer, such as crushed cookies, chopped nuts, or candy pieces. This adds texture and creates surprise with every bite.
Infuse the whipped cream with flavors by adding extracts (like almond or coconut) or folding in ingredients like melted chocolate or fruit puree.

Presentation Tips

They say we eat with our eyes first. Make your Funfetti Ice Cream Cake as beautiful as it is delicious:

Serve on colorful plates or cake stands that complement the vibrant sprinkles. Consider using a clear cake stand to showcase the beautiful layers from the side.
Garnish with fresh berries, edible flowers, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish that contrasts with the playful sprinkles.
Use a piping bag with different tips to create various decorative elements. Stars, shells, or rosettes add a professional touch to the presentation.
For a stunning effect, create an ombré effect with your sprinkles, transitioning from one color to another across the top of the cake.

Make-Ahead Options

Planning ahead can reduce stress and guarantee the best results:

Prepare the cake layers up to two days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature or in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble.
Assemble the entire cake and freeze it unfrosted for up to a week before decorating. This makes party planning much more manageable.
Prepare the whipped cream frosting and transfer it to a piping bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using.

These expert tips make for a delicious and visually stunning funfetti ice cream cake while allowing customization through creative variations. For more inspiration on creative desserts, check out this funfetti cake recipe that showcases beautiful decorating techniques.

How to Store Funfetti Ice Cream Cake: Best Practices

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and texture of your Funfetti Ice Cream Cake. Since this dessert combines cake with ice cream, it requires special handling to make sure it remains delicious from the first slice to the last. Here are the best practices for storing your creation.

Refrigeration Guidelines

While this cake is primarily frozen, short-term refrigeration has its place in the serving process:

For serving, transfer the cake to the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before you plan to slice it. This slight softening makes cutting easier while still maintaining the cake’s structure.
If you’re hosting an event and plan to serve the cake over several hours, you can store it in the refrigerator in a covered container for up to 24 hours. Just be aware that the ice cream may soften more than when frozen.
Never leave the cake at room temperature for more than 30 minutes. The ice cream will begin to melt, compromising both the texture and appearance of the dessert.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing is the primary storage method for ice cream cake. Follow these guidelines for best results:

Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent ice crystals from forming on the surface. This double protection also helps prevent the cake from absorbing other odors in the freezer.
Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or a cardboard cake box for additional protection.
Store in the coldest part of your freezer, away from the door, where temperature fluctuations are minimized.
Properly stored, your Funfetti Ice Cream Cake will maintain its quality for up to 2 weeks in the freezer. After this time, the cake may begin to develop ice crystals, and the texture may degrade.

Storage Time Reference

Storage Method	Duration	Special Instructions
Room Temperature	Up to 30 minutes	Keep covered; for serving only
Refrigerator	Up to 24 hours	Store in airtight container
Freezer (whole cake)	Up to 2 weeks	Wrap tightly in plastic and foil
Freezer (individual slices)	Up to 1 month	Wrap individually; separate with parchment

Thawing and Serving

Proper thawing guarantees the best texture and flavor when serving:

Always thaw the cake in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature. This gentle thawing process helps maintain the texture of both the ice cream and cake components.
Avoid microwaving to thaw the cake as it will create uneven melting and compromise the texture.
For best results, transfer the cake from the freezer to the refrigerator 2-3 hours before serving. This allows it to soften slightly without becoming too soft.
Use a sharp knife that has been dipped in hot water and wiped dry for clean cuts. Wipe the knife between slices for the neatest presentation.

Meal Prep Considerations

If you’re planning ahead, consider these convenient meal prep options:

Portion the cake before freezing for convenient individual servings that can be quickly thawed and enjoyed. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Label your storage container with the date prepared to keep track of freshness.
If freezing individual slices, place a piece of parchment paper between each to prevent them from sticking together.

Following these storage practices helps your funfetti ice cream cake retain its delicious taste and texture. Proper handling makes the difference between a dessert that tastes freshly made and one that has suffered from freezer burn or improper storage.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown per slice of Funfetti Ice Cream Cake (assuming 10-12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	696
Sugar	58.3 g
Sodium	463.1 mg
Fat	40.1 g
Carbohydrates	86.7 g
Fiber	1.2 g
Protein	9.5 g
Cholesterol	152.3 mg

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. This dessert is meant to be enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than an everyday indulgence.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Funfetti Ice Cream Cake

What ingredients do I need to make a Funfetti Ice Cream Cake?

To make a Funfetti Ice Cream Cake, you will need basic cake ingredients such as melted butter, vegetable oil, sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt) for moisture, and buttermilk (or a substitute) for texture. Additionally, jimmies sprinkles are used to add color without bleeding. For the filling, choose your favorite ice cream, and use heavy cream whipped with powdered sugar to frost the cake. These ingredients work together to create the cake’s moist texture, colorful appearance, and creamy layers.

How do I assemble a Funfetti Ice Cream Cake step-by-step?

Start by baking your cake layers and leveling them to ensure a flat surface. Soften your chosen ice cream slightly for easier spreading. Line a pan with plastic wrap and place a cake board inside. Place one cake layer on the board, spread a layer of softened ice cream over it, then add the second cake layer upside down. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for several hours until firm. Once frozen, frost the cake with stiffly whipped cream and refreeze before serving to keep the layers intact.

Why is it important to level the cake layers for an ice cream cake?

Leveling cake layers removes the rounded tops, creating flat, even surfaces for stacking. This helps the layers sit evenly without gaps and prevents the cake centers from touching, leaving enough room for the ice cream filling. Without leveling, the ice cream may not spread evenly, and the cake structure can become unstable, affecting the overall appearance and texture of your Funfetti Ice Cream Cake.

What is the best method to frost a Funfetti Ice Cream Cake without melting it?

Freeze the assembled cake for at least 2 to 4 hours before frosting so the ice cream becomes firm. Use whipped cream beaten to stiff peaks with powdered sugar for a stable frosting. When frosting, unwrap the cake quickly and use a hot knife to smooth edges by removing excess ice cream. Apply the whipped cream gently and avoid overhandling to keep the cake cold and maintain clean lines. Refreeze immediately after frosting to preserve the shape and texture.

Can I customize the flavors and sprinkles on my Funfetti Ice Cream Cake?

Yes, you can easily customize flavors by using chocolate or vanilla cake and selecting any ice cream you enjoy, such as vanilla, cookie dough, or strawberry. For sprinkles, choose jimmies rather than nonpareils because jimmies don’t bleed their colors into the batter, maintaining the vibrant Funfetti look. Using your preferred flavors and decorating options allows you to tailor the cake to your taste or occasion.