Galentine's Funfetti Birthday Cake

Name: Galentine's Funfetti Birthday Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup buttermilk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup rainbow sprinkles; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles for decoration

Highlighted under: Artisan Dessert Bakes

I absolutely love making this Galentine's Funfetti Birthday Cake for my friends. It's always a hit at our celebrations! The combination of colorful sprinkles and fluffy cake layers brings joy to any gathering. I've discovered that using buttermilk gives the cake a tender crumb, and the creamy frosting just seals the deal. It feels like a celebration in each bite, perfect for honoring friendship or just indulging in something sweet and fun. I can't wait for you to try this delightful recipe for your next occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:10:28.038Z

When I first baked this Galentine's Funfetti Birthday Cake, I was inspired by the joy and laughter my friends bring into my life. The vibrant colors of the funfetti not only make it visually appealing, but they also add a playful element that everyone loves. I remember being pleasantly surprised at how well the flavors of vanilla and sprinkles blend together.

One of my favorite tips for this cake is to use a mix of both butter and oil in the batter. This creates a moist texture while allowing the cake to rise beautifully. It's a simple tip that elevates the whole experience, making this cake a standout at any gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Bursting with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for birthday celebrations or just because!

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Funfetti Birthday Cake plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. The all-purpose flour forms the structure of the cake, while the granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps with the cake's tenderness. Using buttermilk not only contributes to the cake's moisture but also reacts with the baking powder to provide specific leavening, resulting in a light and fluffy texture that you’ll adore.

The rainbow sprinkles add festive color and a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall experience without compromising the cake's moistness. It’s important to choose high-quality sprinkles that won't bleed color during baking; look for sprinkles specifically labeled as 'baking sprinkles' for the best results.

Tips for Baking Success

Baking the cakes evenly is essential for a perfect layer cake. Make sure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the cakes inside. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. If your cakes are too dry, try reducing the baking time slightly, as oven temperatures can vary.

While cooling, it's crucial not to rush the process. Letting the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes allows them to firm up slightly, making them easier to transfer to wire racks without breaking apart. If you find the layers sticking to the pans, run a knife around the edges before inverting them.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Galentine's Funfetti Birthday Cake!

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup buttermilk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup rainbow sprinkles

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles for decoration

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your masterpiece cake!

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, and stir in the vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir in the rainbow sprinkles until evenly distributed.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between two 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar. Mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake smoothly.

Decorate

Finish decorating the cake with additional rainbow sprinkles on top for a fun festive touch. Slice, serve, and enjoy with friends!

Take a moment to admire your beautiful cake before enjoying it!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter. It complements the vanilla beautifully and adds a unique twist! Always ensure your cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.

Frosting Variations

Feel free to customize the frosting for added flavor. For a chocolate cream cheese frosting, substitute half the powdered sugar with cocoa powder and add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese. This variation provides a rich, decadent twist that pairs beautifully with the vanilla funfetti cake.

If you want a lighter frosting, you can opt for a whipped cream topping by substituting heavy cream with a stabilized whipped cream recipe. This will keep the frosting from wilting if left at room temperature for extended periods, making it ideal for parties or gatherings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This cake can be baked and stored in advance, making it a great option for busy celebrations. Wrap the cooled cake layers in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to a month. To thaw frozen cake layers, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.

For optimal freshness, assemble and frost the cake within a few hours of serving. If you need to prepare ahead, frost the cake up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it.

→ Can I use a different type of sprinkles?

Absolutely! Any colorful sprinkles will work; just make sure they're suitable for baking.

→ How can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has a good binding agent.

→ What should I do if my cake domes?

To prevent doming, make sure your oven temperature is accurate, and consider rotating your cakes halfway through baking for even cooking.