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; 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: Taste the World

Celebrate special moments with this delightful Vanilla Birthday Cake adorned with colorful rainbow sprinkles. Perfectly moist and bursting with flavor, this cake is a crowd-pleaser for birthdays and parties alike.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:40:18.400Z

This Vanilla Birthday Cake with Rainbow Sprinkles is not just a dessert; it's a celebration on a plate. Made with love and the finest ingredients, it brings joy to any occasion. The combination of rich vanilla flavor and the playful crunch of sprinkles makes it a favorite among kids and adults alike.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor paired with colorful sprinkles
Moist and fluffy texture that everyone loves
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because

      

A Classic Celebration Cake

There's something magical about a classic vanilla birthday cake that brings joy and nostalgia to any celebration. Whether you're hosting a grand birthday party or a small family gathering, this cake is sure to be the centerpiece that delights your guests. Its simple yet elegant design, adorned with colorful rainbow sprinkles, makes it visually appealing and instantly recognizable. Plus, its rich vanilla flavor is a crowd favorite that appeals to both children and adults alike.

This Vanilla Birthday Cake is not just any cake; it’s a symbol of celebration and cherished memories. Each slice is a reminder of the joy that birthdays bring, making it perfect for any occasion where you want to spread happiness. The moist and fluffy texture paired with the sweet frosting creates a delightful experience with every bite. It’s the perfect treat to share with loved ones, creating moments that will last a lifetime.

Versatile for Any Occasion

While this cake is ideal for birthdays, its versatility allows it to shine at any celebration. From baby showers to graduation parties, or even just a casual get-together, the Vanilla Birthday Cake fits right in. You can customize it with different colors of sprinkles or even layer it with various fillings like fruit or chocolate ganache to cater to different tastes. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for all your festive needs.

Not only is this cake perfect for celebrations, but it’s also a delightful pick-me-up for any day. Sometimes, you just need a reason to indulge in something sweet. The simplicity of this recipe allows you to whip it up without much fuss, providing a satisfying treat that can brighten your day. So, whether it’s a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Baking Tips for Success

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 for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. 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.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Add vanilla and enough heavy cream to achieve desired consistency.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with additional sprinkles.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve it at your birthday celebration or any special occasion!

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

Storing Your Cake

After you've enjoyed your Vanilla Birthday Cake, you may have leftovers. To store it properly, keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it, but be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing your cake. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This way, you can savor the deliciousness of your cake even after the celebration has ended.

Customizing Your Cake

One of the best things about baking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your preferences. For this Vanilla Birthday Cake, consider experimenting with different flavor extracts, such as almond or lemon, to give a unique twist to the classic vanilla. You can also add fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, between the layers for a refreshing surprise.

If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use a sugar alternative. Just be mindful that these changes may affect the texture and flavor slightly, so it's worth testing it out. With a little creativity, you can make this cake your own while still maintaining its delightful essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and frost them on the day of serving.

→ Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or chocolate frosting would also be delicious.

→ How do I store the leftover cake?

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

→ Can I substitute the rainbow sprinkles?

Yes, feel free to use any color or type of sprinkles you prefer!