Rainbow Sprinkle Cake Recipe

Sprinkles baked directly into the batter, not just on top, are what give this cake its confetti look in every slice — a good option for birthdays or anyone who wants a cake that looks as fun as it tastes.

Unlike many complicated layer cakes, a homemade Rainbow Sprinkle Cake is easy to prepare using simple pantry ingredients. The combination of fluffy cake layers and colorful sprinkles creates a bakery-style dessert that looks impressive while remaining beginner-friendly.

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Why Rainbow Sprinkle Cake Recipe Is So Popular

The popularity of Rainbow Sprinkle Cake comes from its ability to turn an ordinary dessert into a celebration centerpiece. The colorful sprinkles baked throughout the cake create a fun surprise in every slice, making it especially popular for birthdays and special occasions.

Beyond its appearance, the cake offers a classic vanilla flavor that appeals to a wide range of tastes. It pairs beautifully with buttercream frosting and can easily be customized with different flavors and decorations.

Ingredients for Rainbow Sprinkle Cake

Cake Ingredients

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup rainbow sprinkles

Buttercream Frosting Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Additional rainbow sprinkles for decorating

How to Make Rainbow Sprinkle Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set the mixture aside while preparing the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes three to four minutes and helps create a soft cake texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture and milk, alternating between the two. Begin and end with the flour mixture to create a smooth and balanced batter.

Step 6: Fold in the Rainbow Sprinkles

Gently fold the rainbow sprinkles into the batter. Avoid overmixing to prevent the colors from bleeding into the cake mixture.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.

How to Make Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing continuously. Add vanilla extract and milk until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.

The buttercream should be light, fluffy, and easy to spread over the cake layers.

Assembling the Rainbow Sprinkle Cake

Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of buttercream frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Finish by decorating with additional rainbow sprinkles. For a more festive appearance, press sprinkles around the sides of the cake and scatter extra sprinkles across the top.

Tips for the Best Rainbow Sprinkle Cake

Use Room-Temperature Ingredients

Room-temperature butter, eggs, and milk blend more easily and create a smoother batter.

Choose the Right Sprinkles

Jimmies-style sprinkles work best because they maintain their shape and color during baking.

Avoid Overmixing

Overmixing can lead to a dense cake and may cause the sprinkles to bleed into the batter.

Cool Completely Before Frosting

Frosting a warm cake can cause the buttercream to melt and slide off the layers.

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