Vanilla Birthday Cake with Rainbow Sprinkles

Name: Vanilla Birthday Cake with Rainbow Sprinkles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Rainbow sprinkles for decoration

Highlighted under: Celebration Holiday Recipes

Celebrate special moments with this delightful Vanilla Birthday Cake adorned with colorful rainbow sprinkles. It's a classic dessert that brings joy to any occasion!

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2025-12-16T18:02:18.867Z

This Vanilla Birthday Cake is not just a treat; it's a celebration on a plate! Each slice brings a smile, thanks to its fluffy texture and vibrant sprinkles.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy vanilla cake that melts in your mouth
Vibrant rainbow sprinkles add a festive touch
Perfectly sweet buttercream frosting complements the cake

      

The Perfect Celebration Cake

When it comes to celebrating special occasions, nothing beats a classic birthday cake. This Vanilla Birthday Cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, thanks to its vibrant rainbow sprinkles. Whether it's a child's birthday party or an adult gathering, this cake is sure to delight guests of all ages. The light and fluffy texture ensures that every bite is a joyful experience, making it the perfect centerpiece for any celebration.

Moreover, this Vanilla Birthday Cake is versatile enough to be customized for various themes. You can easily switch up the color of the sprinkles to match your party's color scheme or even add fruit or chocolate layers for an extra twist. The base recipe remains simple and straightforward, allowing creativity to shine when it comes to decoration and presentation. With endless possibilities, this cake is bound to become a favorite for any festive occasion.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Vanilla Birthday Cake, it's crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Using the correct amounts of flour, sugar, and butter can make a significant difference in the cake's texture and flavor. Additionally, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming with sugar; this helps incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter cake. Using room temperature eggs can also enhance the batter's consistency, contributing to a perfectly baked cake.

Another essential tip is to avoid over-mixing the batter once you've combined the wet and dry ingredients. Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake, which is not the desired outcome for this fluffy dessert. Instead, mix until just combined for the best results. Lastly, always keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, and it’s wise to check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Vanilla Birthday Cake is frosted and adorned with rainbow sprinkles, it's ready to shine at your celebration. However, consider pairing it with complementary flavors to elevate the experience. A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side can provide a delightful contrast to the cake's sweetness. Alternatively, fresh berries can add a refreshing element that balances the rich buttercream frosting beautifully.

For an extra touch, you might also consider serving the cake with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. This adds a decadent layer of flavor that will impress your guests. Regardless of how you choose to serve it, this Vanilla Birthday Cake is sure to be a memorable highlight of your celebration, leaving everyone craving more.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Rainbow sprinkles for decoration

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Add heavy cream and vanilla, beating until fluffy.

Frost the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting, and top with the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake and decorate with rainbow sprinkles.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve at your next celebration!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers from your Vanilla Birthday Cake, storing them properly will ensure they remain fresh for days. Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and delicious. Properly stored, the cake can last for up to four days at room temperature or even longer in the refrigerator.

For those who want to keep the cake for an extended period, consider freezing it. Slice the cake into individual servings and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice of your delightful cake whenever you have a craving, without compromising on taste or texture.

Customization Ideas

One of the best parts about baking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your taste preferences. For this Vanilla Birthday Cake, consider adding different flavors to the buttercream frosting. A hint of lemon or almond extract can create an exciting flavor profile that enhances the classic vanilla base. You can also experiment with various food coloring techniques to create a more visually striking cake.

If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating layers of jam or fresh fruit between the cake layers. Adding a fruity element can not only enhance the flavor but also create a beautiful presentation when the cake is sliced. With a few simple tweaks, you can make this Vanilla Birthday Cake uniquely yours, tailored to the tastes of your friends and family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

→ How can I make this cake more colorful?

Add more rainbow sprinkles or use colorful frosting to enhance the visual appeal.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use applesauce or a commercial egg replacer for a vegan option.