Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe

If you're looking for a show-stopping cake that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, then this Funfetti Layer Cake is your answer! Bursting with colorful sprinkles inside and out, it’s the ultimate cake for any celebration—whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or just a casual get-together. The rich, moist layers and creamy buttercream frosting will leave your guests asking for seconds. So, if you’re ready to bake this crowd-pleaser, stick around as we take you step by step through the process of creating this joyful dessert!

What is a Funfetti Layer Cake?

A Funfetti Layer Cake is a fluffy, tender vanilla cake that has a vibrant surprise of rainbow sprinkles mixed into the batter. As the cake bakes, the sprinkles slightly melt, creating fun bursts of color throughout the layers. This cake typically includes multiple layers of baked Funfetti goodness, generously frosted with buttercream or cream cheese icing. Perfect for parties or any special occasion, it’s the kind of dessert that’s not just about flavor, but also about making memories.

Ingredients List for Funfetti Layer Cake

To bake a delicious Funfetti Layer Cake, you will need the following ingredients for the cake batter:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the structure of your cake.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise, ensuring it’s light and fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Ensures a soft and tender crumb.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly.
• 4 large eggs (room temperature): These bind the cake together and add moisture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: For that classic vanilla flavor.
• 1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness.

The Funfetti Star:

• ¾ cup rainbow sprinkles (jimmies): Make sure to use jimmies (long, cylindrical sprinkles) for the best texture. Avoid nonpareils (small round sprinkles) as they tend to bleed color into the batter.

Ingredients List for Funfetti Buttercream Frosting

The perfect Funfetti cake is incomplete without the right frosting. Here’s what you’ll need to create a creamy, delicious buttercream:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds creaminess and flavor.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Gives structure and sweetness to the frosting.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the buttercream.
• 4 tablespoons heavy cream: This helps smooth out the frosting, making it easier to spread.
• Pinch of salt: A small amount to balance the sweetness.
• ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles: To fold into and decorate the frosting.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of a Funfetti Layer Cake lies in its flexibility. You can switch up ingredients and still achieve an equally delicious result.

• Butter Substitution: If you want a slightly lighter cake, you can substitute half the butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil.
• Dairy-Free Version: For those with lactose intolerance, use plant-based milk (like almond milk) and dairy-free butter.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Different Sprinkles: While rainbow jimmies are traditional, you can use themed sprinkles for holidays, like red and green for Christmas or pastel sprinkles for Easter.
• Frosting Flavors: Feel free to add different extracts like almond or coconut to the frosting for a unique flavor twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Funfetti Layer Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

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. This ensures the cakes don’t stick.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together at medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the eggs one at a time, making sure to fully incorporate each before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in thirds, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Fold in the Sprinkles

Gently fold the rainbow sprinkles into the batter using a spatula. Be careful not to stir too much, or the sprinkles may bleed their color.

Step 7: Bake the Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Cook Funfetti Layer Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Make sure your oven is properly heated to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Keep your dry and wet ingredients separated initially before slowly combining them. This ensures a well-balanced batter.
3. Folding the Sprinkles: Gently fold sprinkles into the batter, ensuring an even distribution without overmixing.
4. Baking: Keep an eye on the layers as they bake. The toothpick test is your best indicator for doneness.
5. Cooling: Let the cakes cool completely before frosting. A warm cake will cause the frosting to melt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Using Nonpareil Sprinkles: As mentioned earlier, these small sprinkles tend to bleed, making your batter muddy. Always opt for jimmies.
• Not Prepping the Pans Properly: Make sure your pans are greased and lined to avoid sticking.
• Frosting Too Soon: Don’t rush the process. Allow your cake layers to cool fully before adding the frosting to avoid a runny mess.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you present your Funfetti Layer Cake can make all the difference. Here are a few ideas:

How to Serve Funfetti Layer Cake

• Serve the cake on a cake stand to give it a professional and elegant touch.
• Use a serrated knife to make clean, even slices.
• Pair each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added indulgence.

Presentation Ideas for Funfetti Layer Cake

• Decorate the top with a generous sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles for extra flair.
• Pipe some decorative buttercream swirls around the edges to give the cake a finished look.
• You could also add some birthday candles or festive toppers for special occasions.

Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter, eggs, and milk for a smoother batter.
• Chill the Layers: If your cake is crumbly, wrap the cooled layers in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for an hour before frosting. This makes the cake easier to handle and frost.
• Level the Layers: If the tops of your cakes are domed, level them with a serrated knife to ensure even stacking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. Frost just before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have three cake pans?

A: No problem! You can bake two larger layers and slice them in half to create four thinner layers or bake in batches.

Q: Can I freeze the cake?

A: Absolutely! Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling.

Q: How do I store the leftovers?

A: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

Making a Funfetti Layer Cake is a rewarding and fun baking experience, perfect for beginners and experts alike. Whether you're celebrating a special event or just treating yourself, this colorful, sprinkle-filled cake is sure to impress. Follow this recipe, avoid common pitfalls, and take the time to present it beautifully. Your friends and family will love every delicious bite. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and bake up some magic with this delightful Funfetti Layer Cake!

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