Vegan funfetti cake is a delicious and colorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re vegan or not, this cake is sure to please any sweet tooth. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know to make the perfect vegan funfetti cake, from the benefits of choosing a vegan version to step-by-step instructions for baking and decorating. So let’s get started!
Why choose vegan funfetti cake?
There are several reasons why you might choose to make a vegan funfetti cake. For one, it’s a great option if you’re following a vegan diet or if you have friends or family members who are vegan. Additionally, vegan funfetti cake is usually healthier than its traditional counterpart, as it doesn’t contain any animal products or added preservatives. Plus, it’s just as delicious and colorful as the original version!
Another reason to choose vegan funfetti cake is that it’s a more sustainable option. Animal agriculture is a leading cause of deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and water pollution. By choosing a vegan cake, you’re reducing your environmental impact and supporting a more sustainable food system. Plus, many vegan funfetti cake recipes use plant-based ingredients that are locally sourced and organic, which further reduces their carbon footprint.
What ingredients do you need for vegan funfetti cake?
Before you begin baking, you’ll need to gather all of the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles (plus extra for decorating)
It’s important to note that not all sprinkles are vegan, so be sure to check the ingredients before purchasing. Some brands use confectioner’s glaze, which is made from insects, to give the sprinkles their shiny coating. Look for sprinkles that are labeled as vegan or use natural plant-based colorings.
If you don’t have almond milk on hand, you can substitute it with any other non-dairy milk, such as soy or oat milk. You can also use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
Step-by-step instructions for making vegan funfetti cake.
Now that you have all of your ingredients, it’s time to start baking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the perfect vegan funfetti cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the almond milk, vegan butter, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until the batter is smooth and well-combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Add the rainbow sprinkles to the batter and fold them in gently until they’re evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans, dividing it evenly between the two pans.
- Bake the cakes for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool completely in the pans before removing and decorating them.
Once your cakes have cooled, it’s time to decorate them! You can use vegan frosting or make your own using vegan butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Spread a layer of frosting on top of one of the cakes, then place the other cake on top to create a sandwich. Spread frosting on the top and sides of the cake, then sprinkle additional rainbow sprinkles on top for a fun and festive touch.
If you want to take your vegan funfetti cake to the next level, try adding some fresh fruit on top. Sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries would all be delicious additions that add a pop of color and flavor to your cake. Serve your cake at room temperature and enjoy!
Tips for decorating your vegan funfetti cake.
Now that your cakes are baked and cooled, it’s time to decorate them! Here are some tips for making your vegan funfetti cake look as good as it tastes:
- Use a serrated knife to level the tops of your cakes, if necessary, before assembling them.
- Spread a layer of vegan frosting between the two cake layers, being careful not to add too much or the cake may become unstable.
- Once the cake is assembled, apply a thin layer of frosting around the outside of the cake to create a “crumb coat.” This will help the final layer of frosting look smooth and even.
- Add your final layer of frosting, using a spatula or piping bag to create designs or patterns on the cake.
- Sprinkle extra rainbow sprinkles on top of the frosting for an extra pop of color and flavor.
For an added touch of creativity, consider using vegan food coloring to dye your frosting different colors. You can create a rainbow effect by using different colors for each layer of frosting, or use a single color for a more cohesive look. Additionally, you can add edible flowers or fresh fruit to the top of the cake for a beautiful and delicious garnish.
How to make your own vegan sprinkles.
If you want to take your vegan funfetti cake to the next level, consider making your own vegan sprinkles! Here’s how:
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with 1/4 teaspoon of natural food coloring.
- Stir the sugar and food coloring together until the sugar is evenly coated. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
- Spread the sugar mixture out on a sheet of parchment paper and let it dry for several hours or overnight.
- Once the sugar mixture is completely dry, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut it into small, sprinkle-sized pieces.
- Sprinkle your homemade vegan sprinkles on top of your vegan funfetti cake or store them in an airtight container for later use.
Not only are homemade vegan sprinkles a fun addition to your baked goods, but they are also a great way to avoid any potential animal products that may be found in store-bought sprinkles. Plus, making your own sprinkles allows you to customize the colors and flavors to your liking.
If you don’t have natural food coloring on hand, you can also use fruit or vegetable juice to color your sugar mixture. Simply add a small amount of juice to the sugar and mix until the desired color is achieved. Keep in mind that the color may be less vibrant than if using food coloring.
Vegan substitutes for common baking ingredients.
If you’re new to vegan baking, you may be wondering what substitutions you can make for common ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk. Here are some vegan substitutes you can use in your vegan funfetti cake:
- Instead of eggs, you can use a “flax egg” made by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and letting the mixture sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Instead of butter, you can use vegan margarine or coconut oil.
- Instead of cow’s milk, you can use any type of plant-based milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk.
Another great substitute for eggs in vegan baking is applesauce. You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce in place of one egg. This works particularly well in recipes that call for a small number of eggs, such as muffins or quick breads.
If you’re looking for a substitute for heavy cream, you can use coconut cream. Simply refrigerate a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the solid cream that has risen to the top. This can be whipped and used in place of heavy cream in recipes like frosting or ganache.
How to make a gluten-free version of the recipe.
If you or someone you know has a gluten intolerance or celiac disease, you can still enjoy vegan funfetti cake! Here’s how to make a gluten-free version:
- Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, such as Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free All-Purpose Baking Flour.
- Be sure to triple-check all of your other ingredients to make sure they’re gluten-free as well.
- Bake your cake according to the instructions above.
Frequently asked questions about vegan funfetti cake.
Here are some common questions and answers about vegan funfetti cake:
- What is funfetti cake? Funfetti cake is a type of cake that’s typically vanilla-flavored and studded with rainbow sprinkles. It’s known for its bright, colorful appearance and fun celebratory vibe.
- What are some creative variations on the classic funfetti cake flavor? You can experiment with different flavors of cake, such as chocolate or lemon, and add different types of sprinkles or other toppings to make your cake unique.
- How long will a vegan funfetti cake stay fresh? If stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, a vegan funfetti cake should stay fresh for up to 5 days.
How to store and transport your vegan funfetti cake.
If you need to store or transport your vegan funfetti cake, here are some tips:
- Store your cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
- If you need to transport your cake, be sure to keep it level so it doesn’t become uneven or damaged during transit.
- Consider investing in a cake carrier or using a sturdy cardboard box lined with parchment or wax paper to transport your cake safely.
Serving suggestions and pairing ideas for your vegan funfetti cake.
Vegan funfetti cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other treats and drinks. Here are some serving suggestions and pairing ideas:
- Serve your vegan funfetti cake with a scoop of vegan ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Pair your cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Make mini cupcakes instead of a full cake and serve them at a party or event, along with other bite-sized treats.
Baking with kids: Making vegan funfetti cupcakes together.
Baking with kids can be a fun and educational activity, and making vegan funfetti cupcakes together is sure to be a hit! Here are some tips for baking with kids:
- Choose a recipe that’s simple and straightforward, with easy-to-follow instructions.
- Assign age-appropriate tasks to each child, such as measuring ingredients, mixing batter, or sprinkling toppings.
- Teach your kids about healthy eating habits and the benefits of choosing vegan options when possible.
- Take lots of photos and make memories that your family will cherish for years to come!
The history of funfetti cake and its cultural significance today.
Funfetti cake has been around since the 1980s and has become a beloved staple in American dessert culture. Its bright colors and festive appearance have made it a popular choice for birthdays, holidays, and other celebrations. Today, many people choose to make vegan funfetti cake as a healthier and more ethical alternative that still brings the same joy and nostalgia as the original version.
Sharing the love: Giving away homemade vegan funfetti cakes as gifts.
If you’re looking for a creative and thoughtful gift idea, consider making a homemade vegan funfetti cake for someone special in your life. You can personalize the cake with their favorite colors, flavors, or decorations, and show them that you care by taking the time to bake something from scratch. Wrap the cake up in festive wrapping paper or a gift box, and watch as their face lights up with joy and appreciation.
And that’s everything you need to know about making vegan funfetti cake! We hope you found this article informative and helpful, and that you’re inspired to give this delicious dessert a try. Happy baking!