Save A festive, moist vanilla sponge cake layered with creamy buttercream and topped with colorful sprinkles—a joyful treat perfect for any celebration.
This cake quickly became a birthday favorite for our family because of its perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
Ingredients
- For the Sponge Cake: 1 2/3 cups (210 g) all-purpose flour, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, 3 large eggs at room temperature, 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- For the Buttercream Frosting: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar sifted, 2 tbsp whole milk, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, pinch of salt
- For Decoration: 1/4 cup (40 g) colorful sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk together the flour baking powder and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts alternating with the milk beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Prepare Batter:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 28-32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cake:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make Frosting:
- Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar milk vanilla and salt beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble:
- Once the cake is completely cool slice it horizontally to create two layers. Spread frosting between the layers and over the top and sides.
- Decorate:
- Decorate with colorful sprinkles. Slice and serve.
Save Celebrating birthdays with this cake has created wonderful memories full of smiles and joy.
Notes
Pairs well with sparkling wine or fresh lemonade.
Required Tools
8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan, electric mixer, mixing bowls, rubber spatula, wire rack, serrated knife
Allergen Information
Contains eggs milk wheat (gluten) and dairy. Check all packaged decorations for potential allergens.
Save This birthday cake is sure to bring smiles to your celebration and can be easily customized.
Kitchen Guide
- → What makes the sponge moist and tender?
The combination of creamed butter and sugar, along with eggs and milk, creates a tender, moist crumb by adding richness and moisture throughout the sponge.
- → How can I ensure the layers are even?
Allow the sponge to cool completely before slicing horizontally. Use a serrated knife for a clean, even cut and spread the frosting evenly between layers.
- → Can the decoration be customized?
Yes, colorful sprinkles can be swapped for nuts, fruit zest, or edible flowers to vary the presentation and flavor.
- → Is there a way to add fruit flavor to this dessert?
Adding a layer of fruit jam between the sponge layers enhances the flavor with a fresh, fruity note.
- → How to store the cake to keep it fresh?
Store the layered cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.