Funfetti Birthday Cake Recipe

This Funfetti Birthday Cake recipe features moist, fluffy layers filled with vibrant rainbow sprinkles and topped with a creamy, smooth cream cheese frosting. Ideal for birthdays and celebrations, this cake is a fun twist on the classic dessert. The combination of cake flour and a mixture of sour cream, milk, and butter creates a light, airy texture, while the rich frosting adds a perfect balance of sweetness. Perfect for both kids and adults, this cake can be easily customized with your favorite colors and sprinkles. Whether for a birthday, party, or any special occasion, this Funfetti Birthday Cake is sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients

For the Funfetti Cake Layers:

• 2 and 2/3 cups (330 grams) cake flour
• 1 tablespoon (13 grams) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2 grams) baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon (3 grams) salt
• 1 cup (8 ounces) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 and 1/2 cups (298 grams) granulated sugar
• 6 large egg whites (201 grams), room temperature, beaten until frothy
• 3/4 cup (170 grams) milk
• 3/4 cup (170 grams) sour cream
• 1/4 cup (85 grams) oil (canola or vegetable)
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (85 grams) rainbow sprinkles, plus more for decorating

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 3 cups (706 grams) cream cheese, very soft
• 3/4 cup (170 grams) unsalted butter, very soft
• 4 cups (454 grams) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons milk (add more if needed)
• Nonpareil sprinkles for decorating, optional (do not use in the cake)

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Instructions

For the Funfetti Cake Layers:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper rounds. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed for about 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
4. Gradually add the sugar, and continue beating on high speed for 2 minutes.
5. Reduce the mixer speed to low, then add the beaten egg whites, a little at a time, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently.
6. In a measuring cup, combine milk, sour cream, oil, and vanilla. Stir until evenly mixed.
7. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in the sprinkles.
8. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans, smoothing the tops.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cakes are lightly browned around the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool the cakes in the pans for 15 minutes, then invert them onto cooling racks to cool completely.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat the cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until smooth, about 2 minutes.
2. Reduce the speed to low, gradually adding the sifted confectioners’ sugar. Add the salt and milk, and beat until combined.
3. Increase the speed to high and beat for 1-2 minutes, or until the frosting is fluffy.
4. Reserve 1/2 cup of the frosting in a piping bag fitted with a star tip for decoration.

Assembly:

1. Using a serrated knife, slice each cooled cake layer in half horizontally to create four even layers.
2. Place one cake layer on a cake stand or large plate. Spread 2/3 cup of frosting over the top.
3. Add the second layer of cake, then repeat the frosting process until all layers are stacked.
4. Cover the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Use the reserved frosting in the piping bag to decorate the top with stars or swirls.
5. Gently press sprinkles around the sides of the cake.
6. Allow the cake to set for 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Celebration Flavor: This funfetti birthday cake is a crowd-pleaser with its bright colors, sweet frosting, and light cake layers.
• Creamy Frosting: The rich and smooth cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the soft, moist cake layers, balancing sweetness and texture.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, party, or any special event, this funfetti cake adds a festive touch to the celebration.

Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting to ensure a smooth batter and frosting.
• Proper Cake Slicing: Use a serrated knife to slice the cake evenly to avoid any uneven layers.
• Avoid Overmixing: When adding the dry ingredients, mix until just combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cake Flavor: You can easily swap the vanilla extract for almond extract for a different flavor twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter and cream cheese with non-dairy alternatives, and use dairy-free milk and sour cream.
• Flavored Frosting: Try adding cocoa powder for a chocolate frosting variation or citrus zest for a fresh twist.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The cake layers can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days before frosting. The fully assembled cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will keep well for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers before frosting. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before frosting and assembling.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Pair it with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the rich cake and frosting.
• If you’re making it for a larger crowd, consider adding a second layer of frosting between the cake layers for even more creaminess.