Funfetti Graduation Layer Dream

Name: Funfetti Graduation Layer Dream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup rainbow sprinkles; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles for decoration

Highlighted under: Celebration Table Recipes

I can't contain my excitement when I make this Funfetti Graduation Layer Dream! It's the perfect celebratory dessert that brings out the joy in every occasion. With colorful sprinkles and light layers of fluffy cake, it always draws smiles from friends and family. I love how each slice reveals a delightful surprise, making it a showstopper at graduations or any festive gathering. This cake not only tastes delicious but also looks amazing, ensuring it becomes the centerpiece of your celebration. Let’s get ready to sprinkle some joy!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-21T19:02:18.434Z

When I first made this Funfetti Graduation Layer Dream, I was inspired by the joy my friends felt while tasting it. The vibrant layers mixed with a light, airy frosting made it a huge hit! I experimented with different colors of sprinkles, and trust me, they truly bring this cake to life. I recommend using fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavors and texture.

One of my favorite tips is to chill the cake layers before stacking them. It makes handling so much easier and ensures that they stay intact. Plus, don’t skip the extra sprinkle top layer; it gives this cake a festive flair that everyone adores!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful and festive with sprinkles in every bite.
Fluffy layers of cake that melt in your mouth.
Perfect for graduates or any special celebration.

Understanding Funfetti Ingredients

The charm of Funfetti cake lies not only in its delightful appearance but also in the balance of ingredients. The unsalted butter plays a crucial role by creating that rich, creamy texture while ensuring the cake doesn’t become overly salty. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute it with margarine or a non-dairy butter alternative, but be aware this could slightly alter the cake's flavor.

Granulated sugar is essential for sweetness and helps to achieve the ideal rise. For a healthier twist, consider using coconut sugar or maple syrup, but remember that these could change the cake's color and flavor profile. Moreover, if you have gluten sensitivities, using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can yield similar results without sacrificing taste.

Perfecting Cake Layers

When mixing your cake batter, be mindful not to overmix once you combine the dry and wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake texture, which is the opposite of what we want in a Funfetti cake. Aim for just combined; small lumps are okay, and they'll bake out beautifully. Additionally, make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before they hit the mixing bowl—this helps with a more even rise.

To achieve that perfect golden edge when baking, keep an eye on the layers during the last few minutes in the oven. You should start checking doneness around the 25-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. If the tops start to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover them with foil to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Funfetti Cake Layers

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup rainbow sprinkles

Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles for decoration

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Prepare Baking Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the milk and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the rainbow sprinkles.

Bake the Layers

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Pour in heavy cream and vanilla extract, and whip until fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, followed by the next cake layer. Repeat this process and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Decorate

Finish by sprinkling more rainbow sprinkles on top for a festive touch. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy Your Celebration!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding food coloring to the frosting to match school colors or themes!

Storage Tips

To keep your Funfetti Graduation Layer Dream fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerating will help; just be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you've made the cake layers in advance, you can freeze them. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, which will prevent freezer burn. For best results, consume within two months. Thaw the layers in the refrigerator overnight before frosting for perfect, fluffy results.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is perfect for celebrations; however, don’t hesitate to make individual servings by cutting the cake into fun shapes using a cookie cutter. Dress the slices with additional sprinkles or edible glitter for a whimsical touch that guests will adore.

For those who enjoy a contrast of flavors, serve the cake alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The tartness of the berries or the creaminess of the ice cream pairs beautifully with the sweet, fluffy cake, enhancing the overall experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the layers a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just frost on the day of serving!

→ Can I substitute gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

→ What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a non-dairy alternative for the frosting.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.