Funfetti Vanilla Cupcakes

Why You’ll Love Funfetti Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s made completely from scratch but still feels easy and approachable. The cupcakes bake up light and fluffy, the sprinkles stay vibrant, and the vanilla buttercream is smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweet. I also enjoy how reliable this recipe is for birthdays, parties, or anytime I want to bake something joyful.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Cupcake Base
1½ cups all-purpose flour – spooned and leveled
1¼ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter – room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs – room temperature
2 teaspoon vanilla extract – pure
½ cup whole milk – room temperature
½ cup sour cream – room temperature
⅓ cup rainbow sprinkles – jimmies work best

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
1 cup unsalted butter – softened
4 cups powdered sugar – sifted
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3-4 tablespoon heavy cream – adjust for texture
1 pinch salt – balances sweetness
extra rainbow sprinkles – for topping

Directions

I start by preheating the oven and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners. I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl and set it aside.

In another bowl, I beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. I add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. I alternate adding the dry ingredients with the milk and sour cream, mixing gently just until combined. I fold in the rainbow sprinkles at the end so they stay evenly distributed.

I divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake until the tops are lightly golden and spring back when touched. Once baked, I let the cupcakes cool completely.

For the frosting, I beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and heavy cream until the buttercream is smooth and fluffy. I frost the cooled cupcakes and finish them with extra sprinkles.

Servings and Timing

I make 12 cupcakes with this recipe. Prep time takes about 20 minutes, baking takes roughly 18 minutes, and cooling and decorating take about 30 minutes. The total time comes out to around 1 hour and 8 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap rainbow sprinkles for themed colors for holidays or parties. When I want a lighter frosting, I reduce the powdered sugar slightly. I’ve also filled these cupcakes with vanilla pudding or frosting for an extra surprise inside.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to four days. Before serving, I like letting chilled cupcakes sit at room temperature so the frosting softens.

FAQs

What sprinkles work best for funfetti cupcakes?

I use jimmies because they don’t bleed as much into the batter.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

I often bake them a day ahead and frost them the next day.

Why use sour cream in the batter?

I use it to keep the cupcakes moist and tender.

Can I use boxed sprinkles?

I can, but I prefer high-quality sprinkles for brighter color.

How do I know when the cupcakes are done?

I gently press the top and look for it to spring back.

Can I make these cupcakes without frosting?

I’ve served them plain, and they’re still delicious.

Can I freeze unfrosted cupcakes?

I freeze them tightly wrapped and frost after thawing.

Why are my cupcakes dense?

I avoid overmixing once the flour is added.

Can I use this recipe for a cake?

I’ve baked it as a small layer cake with good results.

How do I get fluffy frosting?

I beat the butter well before adding powdered sugar.

Conclusion

These funfetti vanilla cupcakes are one of my favorite ways to bake pure happiness. I love their soft texture, classic vanilla flavor, and cheerful sprinkles, making them the perfect treat for celebrations, special moments, or anytime I want to brighten someone’s day.