Funfetti Birthday Cake from Scratch – Soft, Colorful & Perfectly Festive

Introduction

A Funfetti Birthday Cake from Scratch is pure celebration in cake form. With its soft vanilla crumb and bursts of colorful sprinkles baked right into the batter, this cake instantly feels joyful, playful, and party-ready. Unlike boxed versions, making funfetti cake from scratch gives you richer flavor, better texture, and complete control over ingredients.

The magic of funfetti cake lies in its contrast. On the outside, it may look like a simple frosted vanilla cake. But once sliced, you reveal bright pops of color scattered throughout each layer. Every bite combines buttery sweetness with tiny bits of festive crunch from sprinkles.

This homemade version is moist, fluffy, and sturdy enough for layering and decorating. Whether you’re baking for a child’s birthday, a themed party, or simply want a cheerful dessert, this scratch-made funfetti cake delivers both flavor and fun in every slice.

What Makes Funfetti Cake Special?

Funfetti cake is essentially a vanilla cake enhanced with colorful sprinkles folded directly into the batter before baking. As the cake bakes, the sprinkles soften slightly but keep their bright color, creating a confetti-like effect throughout the crumb.

The key to a successful funfetti cake is using the right type of sprinkles. “Jimmies” (long, rod-shaped sprinkles) work best because they hold their color and don’t bleed excessively into the batter. This keeps the layers vibrant and visually appealing.

While it looks whimsical, a well-made funfetti cake still maintains classic vanilla flavor. The sprinkles enhance the appearance without overpowering the taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft, fluffy vanilla cake texture
Colorful sprinkles baked into every slice
Rich, homemade flavor
Perfect for birthdays and celebrations
Easy to decorate and customize
Better taste and texture than boxed mixes

Ingredients and Equipment

For the Funfetti Cake Layers

2 ¾ cups (345 g) all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups (350 g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, room temperature
½ cup (90 g) rainbow sprinkles (jimmies style)

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

1 ½ cups (340 g) unsalted butter, softened
5 cups (600 g) powdered sugar, sifted
3–4 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Essential Equipment

Two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans
Mixing bowls
Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
Rubber spatula
Wire cooling rack
Offset spatula

Using room-temperature ingredients ensures smooth mixing and even baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your cake pans with parchment paper. Lightly flour the sides to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of leavening for a consistent rise.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar on medium speed for 3–4 minutes until light, fluffy, and pale. This incorporates air into the batter, creating a soft texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Reduce mixer speed to low. Add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until smooth.

Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 6: Fold in the Sprinkles

Gently fold the sprinkles into the batter using a spatula. Stir just until evenly distributed.

Do not overmix after adding sprinkles to prevent color bleeding.

Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting

Beat the butter on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar on low speed.

Add vanilla, salt, and milk, then beat on high for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. The frosting should be smooth and spreadable.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly.

Decorate with extra sprinkles for a festive finish.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Funfetti Cake

Use jimmies-style sprinkles to prevent color bleeding.
Measure flour correctly to avoid dryness.
Apply a thin crumb coat before final frosting for cleaner results.
Chill briefly between frosting steps for better structure.
Use a kitchen scale for evenly sized layers.

If your cake domes slightly while baking, trim the tops gently for even stacking.

Decoration Ideas

Funfetti cake shines with simple decoration. Add extra sprinkles on top or press them around the sides. Pipe colorful frosting swirls for added dimension.

For birthdays, top with candles or a festive cake topper. You can also tint small portions of frosting in pastel shades for a playful look.

Serving and Presentation

Slice with a sharp knife and wipe between cuts for clean edges. Serve with milk, lemonade, or light party beverages.

This cake looks beautiful on a simple white cake stand, allowing the colorful interior to be the main attraction.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store the frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Cake layers can be baked ahead and frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw completely before assembling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different sprinkle shapes?

Yes, but avoid nonpareils (tiny round sprinkles) as they may bleed color into the batter.

Can I make this cake as cupcakes?

Absolutely. Bake in cupcake liners for 18–22 minutes.

Is this cake very sweet?

It’s moderately sweet, with classic vanilla flavor balanced by creamy frosting.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for best flavor, but oil can be used for slightly increased moisture.

Conclusion

This Funfetti Birthday Cake from Scratch combines soft vanilla cake with cheerful bursts of colorful sprinkles for the ultimate celebration dessert. With its homemade flavor, moist texture, and festive appearance, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for birthdays and special occasions.

Bright, playful, and delicious, this funfetti cake proves that sometimes the most joyful desserts are also the simplest to love 🎂✨