Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cake is the perfect combination of chewy sugar cookies and a soft, cake-like texture, loaded with colorful sprinkles and topped with a rich buttercream frosting. This delightful dessert is ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or whenever you’re in the mood for something sweet and festive. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a fun way to bring joy to any occasion. In this article, we will cover everything from the best ingredients to use, step-by-step baking instructions, variations, storage tips, and more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and Cheerful: The colorful sprinkles make this cake visually appealing and perfect for celebrations.
- Easy to Make: A simple recipe that requires minimal baking skills.
- Chewy and Soft Texture: A balance between a cookie and a cake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for birthdays, parties, and family gatherings.
- Customizable: Can be adapted with different flavors, mix-ins, and frostings.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Sugar Cookie Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional for added flavor)
- ½ cup rainbow sprinkles (jimmies, not nonpareils)
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Extra sprinkles for decorating
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the sprinkles, being careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Cookie Cake
- Transfer the dough to the prepared cake pan, pressing it evenly into the pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cookie cake to cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Step 7: Frost and Decorate
- Spread the buttercream frosting evenly over the cooled cookie cake.
- Top with extra sprinkles for a fun, festive look.
Step 8: Slice and Enjoy!
- Cut the cookie cake into slices and serve at room temperature.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Tips for the Best Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cake
- Use Softened Butter: Ensures a smooth and creamy batter.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of soft and chewy.
- Use the Right Sprinkles: Jimmies work best since nonpareils can bleed color into the batter.
- Let It Cool Before Frosting: A warm cake can melt the buttercream.
Variations and Customizations
- Chocolate Chip Version: Swap sprinkles for mini chocolate chips.
- Lemon Sugar Cookie Cake: Add 1 tsp of lemon zest to the batter.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Holiday-Themed Cake: Use seasonal sprinkles for festive occasions.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cookie cake for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Let it come to room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cake is a delightful, colorful, and easy-to-make dessert that brings joy to any celebration. Whether you’re making it for a party, a special occasion, or just because, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a soft, chewy, and deliciously sweet treat!