Introduction
Celebrate the day of love with a delightful Funfetti Cake topped with rich Dark Chocolate Buttercream. This festive cake is perfect for making Valentine’s Day truly special. With its colorful sprinkles and creamy, decadent frosting, it is sure to make any celebration brighter and sweeter.
Ingredients
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 200g granulated sugar
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 115g unsalted butter, softened
– 240ml whole milk
– 3 large egg whites
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 100g rainbow sprinkles
For the Dark Chocolate Buttercream:
– 200g unsalted butter, softened
– 350g powdered sugar
– 50g unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 60ml heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8-10 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour two 20cm (8-inch) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
4. Reduce the speed to low, and add in the egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternating between the two, add the flour mixture and milk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the flour.
6. Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles using a spatula.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. For the dark chocolate buttercream, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy.
11. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt, mixing on low speed until combined.
12. Increase the speed to medium-high, and blend in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
13. To assemble the cake, place one layer on a serving platter, spread a generous amount of buttercream on top, and place the other cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream.
14. Decorate with additional sprinkles if desired.
**Detailed Directions and Instructions**
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Prepare two 20cm (8-inch) round cake pans by greasing and flouring them. This step ensures your cakes release easily once baked.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside; it’s essential for the structure of your cake.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration will give your cake a wonderful texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Egg Whites and Vanilla
Reduce the mixer speed to low, and add the egg whites one at a time, ensuring to mix well after each addition. Next, blend in the vanilla extract for a lovely, aromatic flavor.
Step 5: Mix in Dry and Wet Ingredients
Alternately add the flour mixture and whole milk to the buttery mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined; overmixing can make the cake dense.
Step 6: Add Sprinkles
Using a spatula, gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles. This step adds a fun and colorful touch that makes the cake perfect for celebrations.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops, ensuring an even bake.
Step 8: Bake the Cakes
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and your kitchen will smell heavenly.
Step 9: Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack where they can cool completely. This cooling is crucial for a stable frosting application.
Step 10: Prepare the Dark Chocolate Buttercream
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy. This is the base for your luscious frosting.
Step 11: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt while mixing on low speed. This helps prevent a sugary cloud from filling your kitchen.
Step 12: Whip to Perfection
Increase the speed to medium-high and blend in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and rich. The smell will be irresistible!
Step 13: Assemble the Cake
Place one layer of cake on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of dark chocolate buttercream on top, then carefully place the second layer on top of the first. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream, creating a beautiful, decadent finish.
Step 14: Add Final Touches
Decorate with extra rainbow sprinkles if desired. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the celebratory vibe of your cake.
**Notes**
Storage Tips
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for up to a week.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To save time, the cakes can be baked and cooled a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to frost.
Vanilla Extract Alternative
If you’re out of vanilla extract, almond extract can be used for a different flavor profile, though it’s much stronger, so use half the amount.
Buttercream Consistency
If your buttercream is too thick, add a little more heavy cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
Funfetti Variations
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding lemon or orange zest to the batter for a citrus punch. You can also swap the rainbow sprinkles for seasonal or themed ones to customize the cake for any occasion.
Cook techniques
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients like flour and sugar to ensure precision in your baking. For liquids, use a clear measuring cup to gauge accurately.
Butter Temperature
Ensure that the butter is softened to room temperature for creaming with sugar. This helps incorporate air and achieve a light and fluffy texture in the cake.
Whipping Egg Whites
Using room temperature egg whites will achieve better volume when beaten, contributing to a lighter cake texture.
Folding in Sprinkles
Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles at the end of the mixing process to prevent them from breaking and bleeding color into the batter.
Baking Cake Layers
Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature before placing the cake in. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent the cake from sinking.
Cooling Cakes
Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking apart.
Making Buttercream
Ensure butter is at room temperature for a creamy buttercream. Gradually mix in powdered sugar to prevent clouding and achieve a smooth texture.
Frosting the Cake
Start by spreading frosting on the top layer before applying it to the sides. This helps to keep everything neat and prevents crumbs from lifting into the frosting.
FAQ
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Yes, you can use whole eggs, but the cake may have a denser texture and a slightly different color.
How can I make the cake more colorful?
You can add extra rainbow sprinkles or use colored gel for added vibrance in the batter.
What if I don’t have unsweetened cocoa powder?
You can use sweetened cocoa powder, but you may want to adjust the sugar in the buttercream to balance the sweetness.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and freeze them. Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and thaw before frosting.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week.
Can I use different types of sprinkles?
Absolutely! Feel free to use themed sprinkles or chocolate chips for variation.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the buttercream?
You can use milk, but the buttercream may be less rich and creamy.
Conclusion
This Funfetti Cake with Dark Chocolate Buttercream is a delightful treat that adds a touch of joy and indulgence to any celebration. Its combination of colorful sprinkles and rich chocolate frosting makes it a perfect centerpiece for Valentine’s Day, birthday parties, or any festive occasion. With its light and fluffy texture paired with the creamy chocolate buttercream, every bite is sure to bring smiles and happy memories.
Classic Vanilla Buttercream
For a lighter twist on this cake, consider replacing the dark chocolate buttercream with a classic vanilla buttercream. The sweet vanilla flavor will complement the sprinkles nicely and keep the festive spirit alive.
Strawberry or Raspberry Jam Filling
Adding a layer of strawberry or raspberry jam between the cake layers can enhance the flavor profile. The fruity notes will brighten the overall taste, making it even more delightful.
Funfetti Cupcakes
Turn this Funfetti cake into cupcakes for individual servings. Top them with dark chocolate buttercream and sprinkles for a fun and portable dessert.
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle
For an extra layer of indulgence, try adding a drizzle of chocolate ganache over the frosted cake. The rich chocolate will enhance the overall flavor and create a beautiful presentation.
Nutella Swirl Buttercream
Mix some Nutella into your chocolate buttercream for a hazelnut twist. This combination adds a creamy texture and an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
Coconut Cream Topping
Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of the dark chocolate buttercream for a tropical flair. The coconut adds not just flavor but also visual appeal.
Oreo Cookie Crumbs
Incorporate crushed Oreo cookies into the buttercream for a cookies-and-cream vibe. This will give your cake an extra crunch and a fantastic chocolate flavor.
