Rainbow Sprinkle Cake

Spring is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a cake bursting with vibrant colors and playful sprinkles? This Rainbow Sprinkle Cake is a delightful combination of fluffy cake layers and rainbow sprinkles in every bite. It’s easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to bring smiles!

Ingredients:

For the Cake (makes one 8-inch cake or two thin layers):

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• 1 ½ cups rainbow sprinkles (jimmies are best, avoid colored balls that bleed)

For the Optional Cream Cheese Frosting:

• ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 6 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 generous pinches salt
• Milk or cream (to thin, if needed)
• Additional rainbow sprinkles for decoration (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep (10 minutes):

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, or two 8-inch round cake pans for a taller cake.

2. Whisk the Dry Ingredients (5 minutes):

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar (3 minutes):

   • In a large bowl using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment (or a hand mixer), cream together the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla (2 minutes):

   • Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Alternate Wet and Dry (3 minutes):

   • With your mixer on low speed, alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk in three batches, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined after each addition. Don’t overmix!

6. Fold in the Sprinkles (2 minutes):

   • Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles with a rubber spatula, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Bake the Cake (25-30 minutes):

   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pan(s). Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the Cake (optional frosting time):

   • Let the cake(s) cool in the pan(s) for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While the cake cools, you can prepare your frosting if desired (see instructions below).

9. Frosting Fun (Optional, about 10 minutes):

   • To make the frosting, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until light and fluffy. Add milk or cream a tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

10. Assemble and Decorate (optional):

• Once the cake layers are completely cool, frost the top of one layer and carefully place the other layer on top (if using two layers). Frost the sides and top of the cake. Decorate with additional sprinkles if desired.

Tips:

• Sprinkle Power! Want a more vibrant sprinkle presence? Add an extra ½ cup of sprinkles to the batter.
• Color Bleed Notice: If your sprinkles bleed color, they may tint the cake batter slightly. This is purely aesthetic and won’t affect the taste.
• Patience is Key: Allow the frosted cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving for the best results.

A Delightful Rainbow Celebration!

This Rainbow Sprinkle Cake is a fun and festive way to celebrate spring or any occasion. It’s easy to bake, colorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser! So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a rainbow cake explosion!