With this Funfetti Cake Recipe, you can create a delightful dessert that brings joy to any occasion. This cake is light, fluffy, and brimming with colorful sprinkles, making it the perfect centerpiece for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat on a regular day. What sets it apart is its homemade quality, which rivals the taste of boxed mixes while allowing you to control the ingredients for a fresher flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this funfetti cake is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Celebratory Flavor: The combination of vanilla and sprinkles creates a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of childhood parties.
- Versatile Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday gathering, or just because, this cake fits right in at any celebration.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to sour cream and butter, each slice is super moist and satisfying.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to get creative with different frostings or additional sprinkles for added flair.

Tools and Preparation
To create this stunning funfetti cake, having the right tools makes all the difference. Gather your baking essentials before starting.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cake pans (8-inch)
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your batter is mixed evenly and thoroughly, resulting in a light cake texture.
- Spatula: A spatula is essential for folding in the sprinkles gently without deflating the batter.
- Cake pans: Using proper-sized pans allows for even baking, leading to beautifully shaped layers.
Ingredients
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.
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). Prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Cake flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
Mix well until fully combined.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
Use an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
To the creamed mixture, add:
1. Vegetable oil
2. Whole milk
3. White vinegar
4. Sour cream
5. Vanilla extract
Mix until combined.
Step 5: Incorporate Eggs
Add eggs one at a time into the wet mixture. Mix well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until combined; do not overmix.
Step 7: Fold in Sprinkles
Gently fold in rainbow jimmies sprinkles using a spatula to distribute evenly without deflating the batter.
Step 8: Bake Cakes
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool Cakes
Remove cakes from oven and allow them to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Prepare Frosting
While cakes cool, prepare frosting by beating together unsalted butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add salt, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach desired consistency.
Step 11: Assemble Cake
Once cakes are completely cooled, frost between layers and around the top and sides of the cake with your prepared frosting.
Enjoy every slice of your delicious homemade funfetti cake!
How to Serve Funfetti Cake Recipe
This delightful Funfetti Cake is perfect for any celebration. Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual get-together, serving suggestions can enhance the festive spirit.
Classic Slices
- Serve slices of the funfetti cake on individual plates for a traditional approach. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Cupcake Style
- Transform your funfetti cake into cupcakes! Bake in muffin tins and top each with colorful frosting and sprinkles for fun, portable treats.
Layered Delight
- Create a multi-layer cake by stacking several layers of funfetti cake with frosting in between. This visually stunning option is great for special occasions.
Dessert Bar
- Set up a dessert bar featuring slices of funfetti cake alongside toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, and chocolate sauce for guests to customize their own desserts.
Festive Platter
- Arrange slices of the funfetti cake on a large platter, garnished with additional sprinkles and edible flowers for an eye-catching presentation at parties.
How to Perfect Funfetti Cake Recipe
To ensure your funfetti cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your ingredients to room temperature helps them blend well, creating a smoother batter and fluffier cake.
-
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture instead of the light and fluffy result you want.
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Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting helps incorporate air into the flour and sugar mixtures, which contributes to a lighter cake.
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Check Your Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is at the right temperature. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture.
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Customize Sprinkles: Feel free to experiment with different types of sprinkles! Jimmies are classic, but nonpareils or even themed sprinkles can add a unique touch.
Best Side Dishes for Funfetti Cake Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your funfetti cake can elevate the dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream
A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream complements the sweet flavors of the funfetti cake beautifully. -
Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast to the sweetness of the cake. Use seasonal fruits for freshness! -
Whipped Cream
Light and airy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that enhances each bite of cake without overpowering it. -
Chocolate Sauce
Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over slices adds indulgence and richness that pairs well with the vanilla flavor. -
Coffee or Espresso
A cup of coffee or espresso offers a nice balance to the sweetness, making it perfect for adults who enjoy dessert after meals. -
Milk
A classic pairing! Cold milk enhances the taste of the funfetti cake while providing a nostalgic feel for many.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a perfect funfetti cake is easy if you avoid some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to steer clear of:
- Using cold ingredients: Room temperature ingredients blend better and create a lighter cake.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense texture. Stir just until combined.
- Skipping the sifting: Not sifting flour can cause lumps. Always sift for a smooth batter.
- Not measuring accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for cake flour, as improper measurements can ruin your cake.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven correctly. An inaccurate temperature can affect baking time and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Funfetti Cake Recipe
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
- Use aluminum foil or a freezer-safe container for additional protection.
Reheating Funfetti Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a covered pan on low heat for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the funfetti cake recipe:
How do you make the Funfetti Cake Recipe more colorful?
Add extra rainbow sprinkles or use colored gel food dye to enhance the vibrant look of your cake.
Can I use gluten-free flour in this Funfetti Cake Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it has xanthan gum for best results.
How long does the Funfetti Cake last?
When stored properly, this funfetti cake stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.
What can I replace sour cream with in this Funfetti Cake Recipe?
You can substitute sour cream with yogurt or buttermilk for similar moisture and tanginess.
Final Thoughts
This funfetti cake recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! With its soft vanilla layers and playful sprinkles, it’s perfect for celebrations or just an afternoon treat. Feel free to customize it by adding different flavors or fillings—this delightful cake will surely bring joy to any occasion!

Funfetti Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Get ready to celebrate with this vibrant Funfetti Cake Recipe! Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a touch of joy, this homemade cake is light and fluffy, bursting with colorful sprinkles. Unlike store-bought versions, you can control the ingredients for a fresher and tastier treat. With simple steps and accessible ingredients, bakers of all skill levels can whip up this delightful dessert. Each slice is moist and satisfying, thanks to the combination of sour cream and butter. Plus, you can get creative with toppings to make it uniquely yours!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cake flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup rainbow jimmies sprinkles
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (for frosting)
- 6 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for frosting)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 4–6 tablespoons whole milk (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In one bowl, combine dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt).
- In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add wet ingredients (oil, milk, vinegar, sour cream, vanilla) to the creamed mixture; mix well.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time until fully combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix on low until just combined.
- Fold in sprinkles gently with a spatula.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (97g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For an extra festive touch, customize your sprinkles or frosting flavors. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.