Name: Funfetti Bundt Cake Birthday Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature (227 g)); 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (room temperature); 2 cups granulated sugar (397 g); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (14 ml); 5 large eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature (113 ml)); 1/3 cup canola oil (76 ml); 2/3 cup rainbow sprinkles (use jimmies or quins); 1 cup full-fat cream cheese (for frosting, room temperature (227 g)); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting, room temperature (113 g)); 3 and 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar (sifted (399 g)); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting); 1/8 teaspoon salt (for frosting); 1 and 1/2 tablespoons milk (for frosting); rainbow sprinkles (for decorating); rainbow nonpareils (optional, for decorating); sparkler candles (optional)

There’s something truly magical about a birthday celebration, and what better way to make it even more special than with a stunning Funfetti Bundt Cake Birthday Cake? Bursting with vibrant rainbow sprinkles and enveloped in a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is not just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece that brings joy to any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this delightful cake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of creating this festive treat that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests smiling.

Reasons to Love Funfetti Bundt Cake Birthday Cake

Colorful Fun: Each slice reveals a beautiful mosaic of colors, making it visually appealing for all ages.
Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and vanilla creates a moist, flavorful cake that is simply irresistible.
Easy to Prepare: This bundt cake is straightforward to bake, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact.
Perfect for Any Occasion: While it’s a fantastic birthday cake, it’s also great for celebrations, potlucks, and family gatherings.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out the sprinkles for seasonal colors or add your favorite flavor extracts.

Ingredient Breakdown

To achieve the perfect Funfetti Bundt Cake Birthday Cake, gather the following ingredients:

3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure.
2 teaspoons baking powder: This helps the cake rise beautifully.
3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and moisture.
8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (room temperature): Contributes to the cake’s tenderness and flavor.
2 cups (397 g) granulated sugar: Sweetness and moisture come from this key ingredient.
1 tablespoon (14 ml) vanilla extract: A must-have for that warm, aromatic flavor.
5 large eggs (room temperature): Adds structure and moisture to the cake.
1/2 cup (113 ml) whole milk (room temperature): Ensures a moist and tender crumb.
1/3 cup (76 ml) canola oil: Adds additional moisture and richness.
2/3 cup rainbow sprinkles: Use only jimmies or quins; avoid nonpareils as they bleed color.
1 cup (227 g) full-fat cream cheese (for frosting, room temperature): The base for our delicious frosting.
1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter (for frosting, room temperature): Adds creaminess to the frosting.
3 and 1/2 cups (399 g) confectioners’ sugar (sifted): Sweetness and thickness for the frosting.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances flavor in the frosting.
1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness in the frosting.
1 and 1/2 tablespoons (21 ml) milk: Adjusts the consistency of the frosting.
Rainbow sprinkles (for decorating): For that extra festive touch.
Rainbow nonpareils (optional, for decorating): Adds more color and texture.
Sparkler candles (optional): A fun way to celebrate when cutting the cake.

Cook’s Kit

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Bundt pan: A classic for this cake, ensuring even baking and easy release.
Mixing bowls: At least two medium-sized for mixing batter and frosting.
Electric mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer will speed up the cream cheese and butter blending.
Rubber spatula: For scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in the sprinkles.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success.
Wire rack: For cooling the cake properly after baking.
Offset spatula: For spreading the frosting smoothly on the cake.

Directions: Funfetti Bundt Cake Birthday Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. You can use a non-stick spray or butter and flour.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, use your electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Vanilla

Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the flour mixture and the whole milk and canola oil. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Fold in Sprinkles

Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles using a rubber spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top if necessary. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the vanilla extract, salt, and milk, adjusting the consistency as needed.

Step 11: Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, place it on a serving plate. Use an offset spatula to spread the cream cheese frosting over the top and let it drip down the sides.

Step 12: Decorate

Finish off by generously sprinkling rainbow sprinkles all over the frosted cake. Add optional rainbow nonpareils or sparkler candles for a festive touch!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking to make this Funfetti Bundt Cake Birthday Cake vegan or vegetarian, consider these swaps:

Butter: Use vegan butter instead of unsalted butter.
Eggs: Substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Milk: Replace whole milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any plant-based milk.
Cream Cheese: Use a vegan cream cheese alternative for the frosting.

What I Learned Testing

Throughout the testing of this Funfetti Bundt Cake Birthday Cake, I discovered that careful measuring is crucial for achieving the right texture. Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake, so mixing until just combined is the way to go. Additionally, letting the cake cool completely before frosting is essential to prevent the frosting from melting off. Finally, the choice of sprinkles makes a significant difference in the cake’s appearance, so be sure to use the right type.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your Funfetti Bundt Cake Birthday Cake is baked and frosted, allow it to sit at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. If you need to store it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To rewarm, simply slice a piece and microwave it for 10-15 seconds for a delightful, soft texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature. Just add the frosting on the day of serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze the Funfetti Bundt Cake Birthday Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use a different type of sprinkle?

For the best results, it’s recommended to use jimmies or quins. Nonpareils tend to bleed color and can affect the cake’s appearance.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in the frosting?

If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, you can use a vegan cream cheese alternative or buttercream made with vegan butter and powdered sugar.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have everything you need to create this delicious Funfetti Bundt Cake Birthday Cake, it’s time to get baking! This cake is sure to be a showstopper at any gathering, bringing smiles and joy to all who partake in its delightful flavors. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare for an explosion of color and taste with each slice. Happy baking, and may your celebrations be filled with sweetness!