This Easy Funfetti Frosting is a burst of joy in every bite, perfect for turning any dessert into a celebration. With its creamy, velvety texture and sweet vanilla flavor, it’s a dream to spread or pipe onto cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. The colorful sprinkles add a playful crunch, making it as fun to eat as it is to make. Best of all, it comes together in just 5 minutes, so you can focus on enjoying the moment.
Whether you’re baking for a party or just treating yourself, this frosting brings a touch of whimsy and happiness to your kitchen. Its light, fluffy consistency pairs beautifully with moist cakes, while the sprinkles create a festive look that’s sure to impress. Quick, easy, and utterly delightful, this recipe is your shortcut to smiles and sweet memories.
What You’ll Need for Easy Funfetti Frosting
- 1½ cups (12 oz/340 g) unsalted butter, softened (ensure it’s at room temperature for easy whipping)
- 6 cups (24 oz/690 g) powdered sugar, sifted (sifting prevents lumps)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (use pure vanilla for the best flavor)
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk or cream (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 cup (4 oz/115 g) rainbow sprinkles (use jimmies for best results, as nonpareils may bleed color)
How to Make Easy Funfetti Frosting
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment (or using a medium bowl and a handheld mixer), whip the softened butter on high speed for 7 to 8 minutes, until it becomes very pale and fluffy.
- Reduce the speed to low and gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk or cream. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
- Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles using a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the frosting.
- Use the frosting immediately, or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months. If refrigerated, let it sit on the counter for 2 hours to come to room temperature. If frozen, thaw it overnight and re-whisk briefly before using.
Perfect Pairings: Cakes and Cupcakes for Funfetti Frosting
This Easy Funfetti Frosting is a *showstopper* on vanilla or chocolate cupcakes, adding a pop of color and sweetness. It’s also fantastic on birthday cakes, sugar cookies, or even as a dip for graham crackers. For a fun twist, try it on a sprinkle-filled cake to double the festive vibes!
Storage Secrets: Keeping Your Frosting Fresh
Store your frosting in an *airtight container* at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature (about 2 hours if refrigerated, overnight if frozen) and give it a quick re-whisk to restore its fluffy texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers
To speed up the process, use *pre-sifted powdered sugar* to skip the sifting step. If your butter isn’t softened yet, cut it into small cubes—it’ll soften faster. For an even quicker mix, use a stand mixer with a whisk attachment to whip the butter to perfection in no time.
Fun Variations: Customize Your Frosting
Switch up the sprinkles for themed colors to match holidays or parties. For a richer flavor, swap the vanilla extract with almond extract. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness or mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
Equipment Essentials: Tools for Success
A *stand mixer with a whisk attachment* is ideal for achieving that light, fluffy texture, but a handheld mixer works just as well. Use a rubber spatula to fold in the sprinkles gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without deflating the frosting. A measuring cup with a spout makes adding milk or cream mess-free.
Easy Funfetti Frosting
Ingredients
- 1½ cups unsalted butter softened
- 6 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup rainbow sprinkles
Instructions
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment or with a medium bowl and a handheld mixer, whip the butter on high speed for 7 to 8 minutes, until very pale and fluffy.
- Lower the speed to low and gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until it is incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk or cream. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of milk or cream.
- Fold in the rainbow sprinkles until evenly mixed.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months. Bring up to room temperature on the counter (2 hours if refrigerated, overnight if frozen) and re-whisk briefly before using.
