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; ¼ cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; Rainbow sprinkles for decoration

Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings Bakery

Celebrate your special day with this delightful Vanilla Birthday Cake adorned with colorful rainbow sprinkles. Perfect for birthdays and festive occasions!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:58:19.306Z

This Vanilla Birthday Cake is a classic dessert that brings joy to every celebration. The fluffy cake layers are infused with vanilla and topped with a rich buttercream frosting, making it a hit among both kids and adults!

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        A classic vanilla flavor that everyone adores
Colorful sprinkles add a festive touch
Moist and fluffy texture that's irresistible

      

The Perfect Cake for Celebrations

A birthday isn't complete without a cake that not only tastes delicious but also looks stunning. This Vanilla Birthday Cake with Rainbow Sprinkles is the epitome of celebration, embodying joy and festivity. Its vibrant sprinkles invite smiles and laughter, making it an ideal centerpiece for parties. Whether it's a child's birthday, an anniversary, or any festive occasion, this cake will surely elevate the mood.

Crafted with simple ingredients, this cake captures the essence of childhood nostalgia. The classic vanilla flavor resonates with people of all ages, creating a universally loved dessert. The moist and fluffy texture makes it easy to slice and serve, while each bite is a delightful experience. This birthday cake isn’t just for eating; it’s for creating memories.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Vanilla Birthday Cake turns out perfectly, always start with room temperature ingredients. This means letting your butter, eggs, and milk sit out for about 30 minutes before you begin. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, resulting in a smooth batter that contributes to the cake's light and airy texture.

Additionally, be mindful of your baking time. Every oven is different, so while the recipe suggests 30 minutes, it's essential to check for doneness a few minutes early. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes; if it comes out clean, they are ready. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, whereas underbaking can leave it gooey in the middle.

Customization Ideas

While this Vanilla Birthday Cake with Rainbow Sprinkles is delicious as is, don’t hesitate to customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding a layer of fruit preserves between the cake layers for an extra burst of flavor. Strawberry, raspberry, or even lemon curd can add a delightful twist that complements the vanilla base beautifully.

You can also experiment with different frostings. A cream cheese frosting or whipped ganache will give the cake a unique flavor profile. For a chocolate lover's dream, consider adding cocoa powder to the frosting or even incorporating chocolate chips into the batter. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

Cake 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

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tbsp vanilla extract
Rainbow sprinkles for decoration

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

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

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, 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 with the remaining frosting, then generously sprinkle rainbow sprinkles over the top.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve it at your celebration. Enjoy the smiles and happy faces!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Storing Your Cake

To keep your Vanilla Birthday Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you've added perishable ingredients like cream cheese frosting, it's best to refrigerate it. When properly stored, the cake can last up to a week in the fridge, but be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can bake the cakes a day in advance. Simply wrap the cooled layers in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. When you're ready to frost and serve, they'll be just as delicious and moist as if they were baked the same day!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Vanilla Birthday Cake, presentation is key. Consider placing the cake on a colorful cake stand to make it pop. You can also add fresh berries or edible flowers around the base for a lovely touch. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds complementary flavors.

For an extra special touch, serve slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This pairing elevates the dessert experience, making it even more indulgent and enjoyable for your guests. Don't forget to capture the moment with photos; this cake is Instagram-worthy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.

→ Can I use a different flavor of frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any flavor of frosting you like, such as chocolate or strawberry.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.