Assembly and Decoration Tips

Once your cake layers are completely cool (this is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting!), you can start assembling your beautiful confetti cake.

• Level the Cakes: If your cake layers have domed tops, use a serrated knife to carefully level them, creating flat surfaces for easy stacking.
• Crumb Coat: Place one cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thin layer of vanilla buttercream over the top. Add the second layer, another thin layer of frosting, and then the third layer. Apply a very thin layer of frosting all over the entire cake – this is called a crumb coat. It traps any loose crumbs and creates a smooth base. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes until the crumb coat is firm.
• Final Frosting: Once the crumb coat is set, apply a thicker, even layer of the remaining vanilla buttercream all around the sides and top of the cake. Use an offset spatula or bench scraper to achieve a smooth finish.
• Decorate with Sprinkles: For the ultimate confetti cake look, generously cover the top and sides of the cake with more rainbow sprinkles. Press them gently onto the frosting for full coverage.

Customization and Variations

This confetti cake recipe is wonderfully versatile! Here are a few ideas to make it uniquely yours:

• Frosting Flavors: While vanilla buttercream is classic, feel free to experiment! Cream cheese frosting, lemon buttercream, or even chocolate ganache could be delicious.
• Extracts: Beyond vanilla, a touch of almond extract can add depth to the cake flavor.
• Cupcakes: This batter makes fantastic confetti cupcakes! Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners, fill 2/3 full, and bake for 18-22 minutes.
• Themed Sprinkles: Use sprinkles in specific colors for holidays (e.g., red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter) or sports teams.

Storage Instructions

A freshly baked homemade confetti cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, slices can be individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil, and frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before bringing to room temperature to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Confetti Cake

What’s the difference between Confetti Cake and Funfetti Cake?

Confetti cake and Funfetti cake are essentially the same thing! “Funfetti” is a brand name trademarked by Pillsbury for their sprinkle-filled cake mix. Over time, it became a generic term for any vanilla cake with colorful sprinkles baked in. So, whether you call it confetti cake or funfetti cake, you’re referring to the same joyous dessert!

What kind of sprinkles are best for confetti cake?

The best sprinkles are “jimmie” sprinkles (the long, rod-shaped ones). They hold their shape and color better during baking, giving you clear, vibrant flecks throughout the cake. Avoid “nonpareils” (the tiny, round ball sprinkles) as they tend to melt and bleed their color, potentially turning your cake a muddy color.

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?

While you technically can, using only egg whites helps achieve that light, fluffy, and bright white crumb that is characteristic of a classic confetti cake. Whole eggs would give the cake a slightly more yellowish hue and a richer, denser texture. If you use whole eggs, you might need to adjust the liquid slightly.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance. Once completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature, or freeze for up to a month. You can also make the buttercream frosting a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before frosting, let the buttercream come to room temperature and re-whip it until fluffy again.

Why did my sprinkles melt or bleed color?

This typically happens if you use the wrong type of sprinkles (nonpareils are prone to melting/bleeding) or if the batter is overmixed after adding the sprinkles. Gentle folding and using high-quality jimmie sprinkles are key to preventing this.