Looking for delightful birthday cake ideas? This Classic Confetti Sprinkle Cake is a vibrant choice guaranteed to bring smiles. You’ll love how simple it is to bake this festive and delicious treat for any celebration.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- All-Purpose Flour: Use cake flour for an even finer crumb.
- Granulated Sugar: Can use superfine sugar for quicker dissolving.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is best; if using salted, reduce added salt slightly.
- Milk: Whole milk works best, but 2% can be substituted.
- Sprinkles: Use jimmie sprinkles; nonpareils may bleed color.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup jimmie sprinkles
For the Vanilla Buttercream:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ cup jimmie sprinkles (for decorating)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Tools Needed: Two 8-inch round cake pans, electric mixer, mixing bowls, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pans and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper circles. This ensures your beautiful birthday cake ideas come out perfectly.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are thoroughly combined for an even texture.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Set this mixture aside for a moment.
4. Cream Butter and Add Dry Ingredients
In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter, alternating with the wet ingredient mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in Sprinkles
Gently fold the ½ cup of jimmie sprinkles into the cake batter using a spatula. Distribute the sprinkles evenly without overworking the batter.
6. Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Make the Vanilla Buttercream
While the cakes cool, prepare your frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until smooth and fluffy.
8. Assemble and Decorate Your Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of buttercream on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream. Finish by scattering the remaining ¼ cup of sprinkles over the top and sides for a festive look. This classic birthday cake ideas recipe is now complete!
Variation Ideas
- Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the cake batter for a brighter flavor.
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips along with the sprinkles for a double treat.
- Color-Themed: Use sprinkles matching a specific party theme or color scheme.
- Almond Extract: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a different flavor profile.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Classic Confetti Sprinkle Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. If refrigerating, let the cake come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use oil instead of butter in this birthday cake ideas recipe?
A: While possible, butter provides a richer flavor and tender crumb that oil might not replicate as well.
Q: Why did my sprinkles bleed color into the cake?
A: Nonpareil sprinkles are more prone to bleeding. Use jimmie sprinkles, as they hold their color better during baking.
Q: How can I make sure my cake layers are level?
A: Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly between the pans. You can also trim the cooled cakes with a serrated knife if needed.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake layers up to two days in advance and store them wrapped tightly at room temperature. Frost the cake the day you plan to serve it.
Q: What if my buttercream is too stiff or too thin?
A: If too stiff, add milk one teaspoon at a time until desired consistency. If too thin, add powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time.
Q: Can I make this a sheet cake?
A: Yes, you can bake the batter in a 9×13 inch pan. Adjust baking time as needed, usually around 35-40 minutes.