Craving a dessert that’s as fun to look at as it is delicious to eat? Let me introduce you to the ultimate Vegan Funfetti Cake. This cake is a showstopper—soft, moist, and bursting with colorful sprinkles. The best part? It’s completely vegan, eggless, and dairy-free, with a gluten-free option available. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want to indulge in something sweet and festive, this cake is bound to be a hit!
Ingredients List
For the Cake:
- 1 1/4 cups (360 mL) vegan buttermilk (made by combining dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar)
- 1 3/4 cups (360 g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (185 g) salted vegan butter, melted and cooled
- 3/4 cup (180 g) dairy-free yogurt, room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 3 3/4 cups (450 g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 baking flour + 1 tbsp arrowroot/cornstarch)
- 3 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/3 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 cup (55 g) vegan rainbow sprinkles
For the Frosting:
- 1 batch vegan cream cheese frosting or vegan buttercream frosting
- Optional: Vegan food coloring for added flair
Essential Kitchen Tools
To make this cake, you’ll need the following tools:
- Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk and Spatula: To mix the batter without overworking it.
- Cake Pans: Two or three 8-inch pans work best.
- Parchment Paper: To line the pans for easy removal.
- Offset Spatula: For smooth frosting application.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the cakes evenly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Vegan Buttermilk
Start by making your vegan buttermilk. Combine your favorite dairy-free milk (such as almond, soy, or oat) with apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5–6 minutes until it curdles slightly. This step is crucial for achieving a tender crumb.
Mixing the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together melted vegan butter, granulated sugar, dairy-free yogurt, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while slowly pouring in the vegan buttermilk. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the cake dense.
Finally, fold in the sprinkles using a spatula. Be gentle to avoid color bleeding from the sprinkles into the batter.
Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pans and line them with parchment paper. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake:
- For three 8-inch layers: Bake for 27–30 minutes.
- For two 8-inch layers: Bake for 40–42 minutes.
Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
Cooling the Layers
Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before frosting; any residual warmth can melt your frosting.
Assembling and Decorating the Vegan Funfetti Cake
Now that your cake layers are baked and cooled, it’s time to assemble and decorate this vibrant masterpiece. This is where the fun begins—layering, frosting, and adding those final touches that make your cake truly special.
Preparing the Frosting
You can use either vegan cream cheese frosting or vegan buttercream frosting for this cake. Both options are rich, creamy, and perfectly complement the sweetness of the funfetti layers. If you’d like to add a pop of color, mix in a few drops of vegan food coloring to your frosting.
Pro Tip: If you’re making your frosting from scratch, ensure all ingredients (like vegan butter or cream cheese) are at room temperature to achieve a smooth consistency.
Layering the Cake
- Start with the Bottom Layer: Place one cake layer on a cake stand or turntable. Add about 1/3–1/2 cup of frosting on top and spread it evenly using an offset spatula.
- Add the Middle Layer(s): Gently place the second layer on top and repeat the frosting process. If you’re working with three layers, repeat this step again for the third layer.
- Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting around the entire cake to seal in any crumbs. Don’t worry about perfection here—this is just the base layer. Chill the crumb-coated cake in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to set.
Final Frosting and Decoration
Once the crumb coat is set:
- Apply a thicker layer of frosting over the entire cake, smoothing it out with an offset spatula for a clean finish.
- Create decorative swoops or patterns with your spatula for a textured look, or keep it smooth for a minimalist aesthetic.
- Sprinkle vegan rainbow sprinkles generously over the top and sides for that signature funfetti look.
Optional Decorations:
- Pipe additional frosting around the edges or base of the cake.
- Add edible glitter or vegan sugar pearls for extra flair.
Serving Suggestions
This Vegan Funfetti Cake is perfect for any celebration—birthdays, anniversaries, or just because! Slice it up and watch as everyone marvels at its colorful interior and rich flavor.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Funfetti Cake Every Time
Making a Vegan Funfetti Cake is a joyful experience, but here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out flawless every single time.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Vegan Butter: Use high-quality vegan butter like Miyoko’s or Flora Plant Butter for the best flavor and texture. Avoid margarine, as it can alter the consistency of the batter.
- Dairy-Free Yogurt: Opt for plain or vanilla-flavored yogurt to keep the flavors balanced. Coconut yogurt works well if you prefer a slightly richer taste.
- Sprinkles: Not all sprinkles are vegan, so check the label carefully. Brands like Sweetapolita and Fancy Sprinkles offer vibrant vegan options that won’t bleed into your batter.
Avoid Overmixing
When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light, fluffy texture we’re aiming for.
Pan Prep is Key
Grease your cake pans thoroughly and line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This small step ensures that your cake layers release easily from the pans.
Cooling Completely Before Frosting
Patience is key! Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Make sure your cake layers are completely cool to the touch before assembling.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: If you plan to serve the cake within a day, store it at room temperature in an airtight container.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage (up to 4 days), wrap the cake in parchment paper and foil, then refrigerate.
- Freezer: You can freeze leftover slices for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this Vegan Funfetti Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour (such as King Arthur’s Measure for Measure) and add 1 tablespoon of arrowroot or cornstarch for structure.
Can I make this cake nut-free?
Absolutely! Ensure all your ingredients, such as vegan butter and dairy-free yogurt, are nut-free. Many brands offer nut-free alternatives.
What makes this cake so moist?
The combination of vegan buttermilk, dairy-free yogurt, and melted vegan butter creates a tender and moist crumb without any eggs or dairy.
Can I use coconut oil instead of vegan butter?
While coconut oil can be used, it may slightly alter the flavor and texture. If you decide to use it, make sure it’s melted and cooled before adding it to the batter.
Conclusion
This Vegan Funfetti Cake is not just a dessert—it’s an experience. From its vibrant sprinkles to its rich yet airy texture, every bite feels like a celebration. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is guaranteed to impress vegans and non-vegans alike.
With simple substitutions, you can customize this recipe to suit dietary needs like gluten-free or nut-free preferences. Plus, its easy-to-follow steps make it beginner-friendly while delivering professional-level results. So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s get baking!