With layers of soft and moist vanilla cake speckled with rainbow sprinkles, this funfetti cake really is a party in cake form! It tastes JUST like box cake mix – but made 100% from scratch. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat, this Funfetti Cake Recipe will surely bring joy to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This funfetti cake comes together quickly with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and rainbow sprinkles creates a delightful taste that’s loved by all ages.
- Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a weekend treat, this cake is perfect for any celebration.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and careful mixing, this cake remains incredibly moist and fluffy.
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the sprinkles or add your favorite fillings for a personalized touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on your Funfetti Cake Recipe, gather your tools. Proper equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 8-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool allows for quick and efficient mixing, ensuring your batter is smooth and well-combined.
- Mixing bowls: Having various sizes helps in organizing your ingredients while preparing the cake.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding in ingredients without losing airiness.

Ingredients
To bring this Funfetti Cake Recipe to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cake
- 3 cups (390g) cake flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 12 tablespoons (180g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/3 cup (80mL) vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup (180mL) whole milk, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 cup (240g) full fat sour cream, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup (120g) rainbow jimmies sprinkles
For the Frosting
- 1 1/2 cups (340g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 6 cups (780g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 4-6 tablespoons whole milk
How to Make Funfetti Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. The cake flour
2. The granulated sugar
3. The baking powder
4. The baking soda
5. The salt
Whisk these together until evenly combined.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat together:
1. The unsalted butter
2. The vegetable oil
Mix until creamy. Gradually add dry ingredients into this mixture while alternating with:
1. The whole milk
2. The white vinegar
3. The sour cream
Add the remaining wet ingredients including:
1. The vanilla extract
2. The eggs
Blend everything until smooth.
Step 4: Fold in Sprinkles
Gently fold in the:
– rainbow jimmies sprinkles
This ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without breaking apart.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter equally between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool Down
Once baked, allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare Frosting
While cakes are cooling, prepare frosting by beating together:
1. The unsalted butter
2. Gradually adding in the sifted powdered sugar
Mix until fluffy and add:
1. The remaining salt
2. Vanilla extract
3. Milk as needed for desired consistency
Once cakes are cool, frost layers as desired!
Enjoy your homemade Funfetti Cake!
How to Serve Funfetti Cake Recipe
Serving your Funfetti cake can elevate any occasion, making it even more special. Whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a treat for yourself, here are some delightful ways to present this colorful cake.
Classic Slice
- A classic slice of Funfetti cake is always a hit. Serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
Festive Cake Pops
- Transform leftover slices into fun cake pops by crumbling the cake, mixing it with frosting, and coating them in chocolate. Perfect for parties!
Layered with Ice Cream
- Serve slices of Funfetti cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream is simply irresistible.
Mini Cupcakes
- Bake mini versions of your Funfetti cake as cupcakes. These are perfect for individual servings and great for kids’ parties!
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair slices with fresh berries or sliced fruits like strawberries and kiwis for a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness.
Decorated Platter
- Arrange slices of Funfetti cake on a colorful platter adorned with edible flowers or extra sprinkles for an eye-catching display at gatherings.
How to Perfect Funfetti Cake Recipe
To ensure your Funfetti cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs, butter, and milk come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
-
Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting your flour and powdered sugar removes lumps and aerates the mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the desired soft texture.
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Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if possible. An accurate temperature ensures uniform baking.
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Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cakes to cool completely before adding frosting. This prevents melting and sliding, leading to a beautifully frosted finish.
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Experiment with Sprinkles: Feel free to use different types or colors of sprinkles to match themes or occasions. This adds personalization to your cake!
Best Side Dishes for Funfetti Cake Recipe
When serving Funfetti cake, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance the overall experience. Here are some great options:
-
Fruit Salad
A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cake while providing freshness. -
Whipped Cream
Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the moist layers of Funfetti cake. -
Chocolate Sauce
Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice creates an indulgent dessert experience that chocolate lovers will adore. -
Ice Cream Sundae Bar
Set up an ice cream sundae bar where guests can top their slices with scoops of their favorite ice creams and toppings. -
Cheesecake Bites
Mini cheesecake bites offer a rich contrast to the lightness of the Funfetti cake without overwhelming flavors. -
Tea or Coffee
A warm cup of tea or coffee serves as an excellent drink option that complements the sweetness of the dessert beautifully. -
Pudding Cups
Individual pudding cups made from vanilla or chocolate pudding can add another layer of fun texture alongside the cake. -
Cookies Platter
A selection of cookies like sugar cookies or chocolate chip cookies provides variety and satisfies different cravings among guests.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially with a fun cake like this one. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of for your Funfetti Cake Recipe.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can affect the texture of your cake. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down, leading to too much flour. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
- Skipping the vinegar: Vinegar helps tenderize the cake. Don’t skip it, as it is key to achieving that soft texture.
- Neglecting to grease pans thoroughly: A well-greased pan prevents sticking. Use butter or cooking spray on all surfaces of the pan.
- Rushing the cooling process: Cutting into a hot cake can ruin its structure. Allow it to cool completely before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Funfetti Cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Funfetti Cake Recipe
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Funfetti Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cake slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for 5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Funfetti Cake Recipe unique?
This recipe stands out because it’s made entirely from scratch, mimicking the flavor and texture of classic box mixes but with fresh ingredients.
Can I customize my Funfetti Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add different types of sprinkles, mix in chocolate chips, or even add flavored extracts for variety.
How do I ensure my Funfetti Cake rises properly?
Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh and use room temperature ingredients for optimal results.
What frosting pairs well with this Funfetti Cake Recipe?
A classic buttercream frosting works beautifully, but cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tang that complements the sweetness.
How long does it take to make this Funfetti Cake Recipe?
Total time from start to finish is about 2 hours and 10 minutes, including prep and baking time.
Can I use gluten-free flour for this Funfetti Cake Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just ensure it has xanthan gum if needed for structure.
Final Thoughts
This Funfetti Cake Recipe is not only delightful but also versatile enough to suit any celebration. With its vibrant sprinkles and moist texture, it’s bound to bring joy to any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors or toppings!
Funfetti Cake
Indulge in the delightful Funfetti Cake Recipe, a colorful celebration of flavor and joy! This moist vanilla cake, bursting with rainbow sprinkles, is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. Crafted entirely from scratch, it captures the nostalgic taste of box cake mix but with fresher ingredients. Its fluffy texture and vibrant look will surely bring smiles to all ages. Whether served as classic slices or transformed into festive cupcakes, this cake is versatile enough to suit your celebrations. Let’s bring joy to your next gathering with this cheerful dessert!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups cake flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 cup full fat sour cream (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup rainbow jimmies sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cake flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and vegetable oil until smooth. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients while alternating with milk and sour cream.
- Mix in eggs and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth. Gently fold in sprinkles.
- Divide the batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





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