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 slices
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; ½ cup rainbow sprinkles; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2-4 tbsp heavy cream; ½ cup rainbow sprinkles (for decoration)

Highlighted under: Everyday Dessert Recipes

Celebrate your special day with this delightful Vanilla Birthday Cake adorned with colorful rainbow sprinkles. It's fluffy, moist, and perfect for any birthday celebration.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:52:19.177Z

This Vanilla Birthday Cake is not just a treat; it's a symbol of joy and celebration. Every slice is infused with love and sprinkled with happiness, making it the perfect centerpiece for any birthday party.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that's simply irresistible
Vibrant rainbow sprinkles that add a fun touch
Perfectly sweet vanilla flavor that pleases all palates

      

The Joy of Baking a Birthday Cake

Baking a birthday cake is more than just preparing a dessert; it's about creating lasting memories. This Vanilla Birthday Cake with Rainbow Sprinkles is the perfect centerpiece to celebrate special moments with friends and family. The simple act of mixing ingredients together can bring joy and anticipation, especially when you know there’s a delicious treat waiting at the end.

The process of baking is therapeutic, providing an opportunity to unwind and focus on the moment. As you whisk together the flour, sugar, and butter, you'll find that each step builds excitement for the final product. Plus, the aroma of a baking cake fills your kitchen with warmth, setting the perfect mood for any celebration.

Perfect for All Ages

This Vanilla Birthday Cake is designed to please everyone, regardless of age. The classic vanilla flavor is universally loved, making it suitable for both children and adults. When you add vibrant rainbow sprinkles, it transforms into a joyful treat that captures the essence of fun, making it an instant hit at birthday parties.

Whether you're hosting a child’s birthday bash or an adult gathering, this cake fits right in. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with the sweet frosting, ensures that everyone enjoys a slice. Personalize it further by adding messages or themed decorations to match the party's vibe.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After baking and decorating your Vanilla Birthday Cake, you may have leftovers (if you're lucky!). To keep the cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

When it comes to serving, consider pairing slices of this delightful cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel can also elevate the experience. This versatility allows you to enjoy the cake in various ways, making it a delightful treat long after the candles have been blown out.

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
½ cup rainbow sprinkles

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
2-4 tbsp heavy cream
½ cup rainbow sprinkles (for decoration)

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

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Fold in the rainbow sprinkles.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Add vanilla extract and enough cream to reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake, and decorate with additional rainbow sprinkles.

Let the cake set for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Vanilla Birthday Cake turns out perfectly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar. This step is crucial in achieving the ideal cake texture. Additionally, it's important to have all your ingredients at room temperature, as this helps them combine more easily and evenly.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy one. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, then gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles for a fun surprise in every bite.

Customization Ideas

While this recipe is delightful as is, feel free to customize it to your liking. Consider adding different flavors to the frosting, such as almond or lemon, to create a unique twist. You can also experiment with different types of sprinkles, matching them to your party theme or favorite colors.

For an extra layer of fun, consider adding a filling between the cake layers. A layer of fruit preserves, whipped cream, or even a chocolate ganache can add another dimension to the cake. These small changes can make your Vanilla Birthday Cake even more special and tailored to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, using cake flour will result in a lighter and softer cake.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

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

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

For an egg substitute, you can use unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water).