Name: Easy Homemade FUNFETTI Cake with Vanilla Buttercream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; pinch salt (optional and to taste); 1 large egg; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup sour cream ((plain Greek yogurt can be substituted)); 1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sprinkles (the star of the show!); 1/2 cup unsalted butter ((softened)); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; pinch salt (optional and to taste); 1 1/2 to 2 cups confectioners sugar; 1/4 cup sprinkles (for topping)

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If you’re looking for a cake that brings a smile with every slice, then look no further than this Easy Homemade FUNFETTI Cake with Vanilla Buttercream. Bursting with color and flavor, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day. With its light and fluffy texture and delightful sprinkles throughout, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into making this fun and festive dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Why It Works Every Time

This Easy Homemade FUNFETTI Cake is a guaranteed success for several reasons. The combination of buttermilk and sour cream creates a moist crumb while adding a subtle tang that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake. The baking powder ensures a light rise, and the sprinkles add that playful touch that makes any cake feel like a celebration. Plus, the vanilla buttercream is creamy and smooth—making it the ideal complement to the cake.

Ingredient Rundown

1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness and moisture for the cake.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Leavening agent for a fluffy texture.
Pinch of salt: Enhances flavor (optional and to taste).
1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and adds richness.
1/2 cup buttermilk: Contributes moisture and a tangy flavor.
1/2 cup sour cream: Ensures the cake stays moist (plain Greek yogurt can be substituted).
1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, sweet flavor.
1/2 cup sprinkles: The star of the show, adding color and fun!

1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): The base for a creamy buttercream.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the frosting.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the buttercream (optional and to taste).
1 1/2 to 2 cups confectioners sugar: Sweetens the buttercream to perfection.
1/4 cup sprinkles: For topping the frosting and making it extra festive!

Prep & Cook Tools

Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
Electric mixer: To whip the buttercream to a light and fluffy consistency.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
9-inch round cake pans: For baking the cake layers.
Parchment paper: To line the cake pans for easy removal.
Spatula: For spreading frosting evenly on the cake.

The Method for Easy Homemade FUNFETTI Cake with Vanilla Buttercream

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, sour cream, canola oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Gently fold in the sprinkles until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake 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 before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Vanilla Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the confectioners sugar, mixing on low until combined. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then increase the speed and beat until the buttercream is light and fluffy. If necessary, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of buttercream on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream. Finish by decorating with additional sprinkles on top.

Seasonal Spins

Chocolate FUNFETTI Cake: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
Red Velvet FUNFETTI Cake: Add cocoa powder and red food coloring for a festive red velvet version.
Holiday-themed FUNFETTI Cake: Use seasonal sprinkles like red and green for Christmas or pastels for Easter.
Fruit-infused FUNFETTI Cake: Add finely chopped strawberries or blueberries to the batter for a fruity flavor.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Here are some common mistakes you might encounter while making your Easy Homemade FUNFETTI Cake with Vanilla Buttercream, along with tips on how to avoid them:

Too dense: This can happen if you overmix the batter. Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Dry cake: Ensure you measure your ingredients accurately and don’t overbake the cakes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
Frosting too sweet: If your buttercream is overly sweet, add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors or a splash of milk to thin it out.
Sprinkles bleeding color: If using colored sprinkles, fold them in gently to prevent bleeding. Consider using jimmies instead of nonpareils for less bleeding.

Prep Ahead & Store

This Easy Homemade FUNFETTI Cake can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how:

Make Ahead: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Allow them to cool completely, wrap them in plastic wrap, and store in the fridge.
Frosting Storage: The vanilla buttercream can also be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Storing the Cake: Once frosted, the cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just cover it with a cake dome or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Freezing: You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

Ask the Chef

Can I use different types of flour?

While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can experiment with cake flour for an even lighter cake. Just note that the results may vary slightly.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Absolutely! Any neutral oil, such as vegetable or grapeseed oil, will work perfectly. The key is to avoid oils with strong flavors that might affect the cake.

Is there a way to make this cake healthier?

You can swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly. Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream can also lower the calories while maintaining moisture.

Bring It Home

Creating this Easy Homemade FUNFETTI Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is not only a fun baking project but also a delightful way to celebrate life’s little moments. Whether you’re throwing a birthday bash or enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, this cake will surely bring joy to your table. With its colorful sprinkles, fluffy texture, and creamy frosting, it embodies the spirit of celebration. So grab your mixing bowls, gather your ingredients, and let’s bake some happiness!