Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe

If you're looking for a dessert that screams fun, joy, and celebration, the Funfetti Layer Cake is the perfect choice! Whether you're hosting a birthday party, celebrating an anniversary, or just want to brighten up your day, this delightful cake will do the trick. With its colorful sprinkles scattered throughout the batter and the fluffy layers stacked high with creamy frosting, it’s hard to resist. Read on for a detailed guide on how to create this delightful cake that will surely be a hit at any gathering!

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What Is a Funfetti Layer Cake?

A Funfetti Layer Cake is essentially a light vanilla cake infused with sprinkles, creating a burst of color with every bite. It’s the epitome of happiness in a dessert! Popularized in the late 1980s, Funfetti cakes have become a symbol of celebration and joy. Whether it's for kids or adults, there’s something about those bright little sprinkles that make everyone smile. Below, you’ll find all the ingredients, tips, and step-by-step instructions you need to bake the perfect Funfetti Layer Cake at home.

Ingredients List for the Funfetti Layer Cake

Before you dive into making this cake, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create a classic, three-layer Funfetti Cake:

For the Cake Layers:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups whole milk
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup rainbow sprinkles (avoid nonpareils, as they tend to bleed in the batter)

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup heavy cream or milk
• A pinch of salt
• Extra sprinkles for decorating

Substitutions and Variations

While the classic Funfetti Layer Cake is pretty straightforward, there are several ways to customize it to suit your needs or preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose one that is designed for baking to achieve the same soft texture.
• Vegan Funfetti Cake: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, replace eggs with a flaxseed or applesauce substitute, and use almond or soy milk instead of dairy milk.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and swap out milk for any dairy-free option like almond, soy, or coconut milk.
• Chocolate Funfetti Cake: Swap out ¼ cup of the flour for cocoa powder to give your Funfetti cake a chocolate twist!
• Sprinkles Alternative: Instead of classic rainbow sprinkles, try using chocolate sprinkles or pastel-colored sprinkles for a different look.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to start baking? Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the perfect Funfetti Layer Cake. Each step is carefully designed to ensure that your cake turns out soft, moist, and absolutely delicious.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the cakes from the pans later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. The key here is to make sure your butter is at room temperature to ensure a creamy mixture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix again until combined.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to ensure a tender crumb.

Step 6: Fold in the Sprinkles

Gently fold in the sprinkles with a spatula, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can cause the colors to bleed.

Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers

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

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

The key to achieving the perfect Funfetti Layer Cake lies in the little details. Here’s a summary of the most important steps:

1. Preheat your oven and prepare your pans for easy cake removal.
2. Cream butter and sugar thoroughly to introduce air and create a light, fluffy cake.
3. Add eggs one by one to ensure they fully incorporate into the batter.
4. Alternate dry and wet ingredients while mixing slowly to avoid over-mixing.
5. Fold in the sprinkles carefully so they remain intact.
6. Bake until golden and let the layers cool before assembling and frosting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making a Funfetti Layer Cake:

• Using the wrong type of sprinkles: Nonpareils (tiny round sprinkles) can bleed into the batter, giving it an unintended color. Stick to jimmies (the longer, rod-shaped sprinkles) for best results.
• Over-mixing the batter: Mixing too much after adding the flour can lead to a tough, dense cake. Be gentle and stop as soon as everything is combined.
• Not cooling the layers fully: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Be patient and let the layers cool completely before assembling.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Funfetti Layer Cake is baked and frosted, it’s time to make it look as good as it tastes! Here are some serving and presentation ideas:

• Frosting Technique: Use an offset spatula to apply a thick layer of buttercream between each cake layer, then a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) around the outside to lock in any stray crumbs. After chilling, add a final, smooth coat of frosting.
• Extra Sprinkles: Once the cake is frosted, gently press sprinkles into the sides and top of the cake for extra visual appeal.
• Serving Sizes: A typical 8-inch, three-layer cake will serve about 12-16 people, depending on how thick you slice it.

How to Serve Funfetti Layer Cake

Funfetti Layer Cake is best served at room temperature to allow the buttercream to soften slightly and the cake layers to be moist and tender. Pair slices of this cake with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for a delightful treat.

Presentation Ideas for Funfetti Layer Cake

• Rainbow Theme: Add extra rainbow elements to your table setup, like multicolored plates and napkins, to complement the bright cake.
• Candles and Sparklers: Funfetti is often associated with celebrations, so don’t forget to add some festive candles or even sparklers for extra flair!
• Themed Cake Topper: A cute cake topper that says "Happy Birthday" or “Celebrate” will add a professional touch to your presentation.

Funfetti Layer Cake Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients (eggs, butter, milk) are at room temperature to allow for even mixing and a smooth batter.
• Add Sprinkles Last: Only add the sprinkles once your batter is ready to go into the pans. This helps prevent any color bleeding.
• Double the Frosting: If you love a thick layer of frosting, consider making an extra half batch to give yourself more to work with when decorating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Funfetti Layer Cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers up to two days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. Frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days.

Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Absolutely. You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to three months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

Q: Why did my sprinkles sink to the bottom?
A: If your batter is too thin, the sprinkles may sink. Ensure your batter is thick enough to suspend the sprinkles, and lightly toss them in flour before folding them into the batter.

Conclusion

Creating a Funfetti Layer Cake at home is a surefire way to bring joy to any event. With its colorful sprinkles and layers of fluffy cake, it's a treat that appeals to kids and adults alike. By following the step-by-step instructions, avoiding common mistakes, and adding your own creative touches, you’ll bake a show-stopping dessert that will make every celebration memorable. So, grab your ingredients and let the funfetti magic begin—happy baking!

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