There’s a contagious joy that fills the kitchen when I whip up this Funfetti Angel Food Cake, and I can’t help but smile every time I see those vibrant rainbow sprinkles nestled in the fluffy batter. This dessert has a magical way of elevating any occasion, whether it’s a birthday bash or just a Tuesday night craving for something sweet. The first time I served it, my friends were skeptical of its lightness—could a cake this airy also be delicious? But one bite was all it took for them to declare it a new favorite and to start begging for the recipe.
Crafted primarily from egg whites, this gluten-free delight embodies everything we want in a dessert: it’s light, surprisingly simple, and utterly satisfying. The addition of a fluffy marshmallow frosting transforms it into a showstopper, making it perfect for celebrations or just a cozy night at home. So, let’s dive into creating this heavenly treat that’s not just about indulgence but also brings a little sparkle to your day!
Why is Funfetti Angel Food Cake so Tempting?
Joyful experience: Imagine a cake that brings smiles with every slice, sparking joy at any gathering.
Light and airy: This cake’s delightful texture makes it feel like a cloud on your palate, with a sweetness that’s just right.
Gluten-free goodness: Perfect for everyone, this dessert allows those with dietary restrictions to indulge without worry.
Stunning presentation: The colorful sprinkles not only enhance flavor but also create an eye-catching centerpiece for your table.
Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this impressive treat effortlessly.
Versatile: Customize it with different extracts or mix-ins for a touch of personal flair, ensuring it suits any celebration or mood.
Dive into this recipe and discover how to make your own enchanting Funfetti Angel Food Cake that everyone will love!
Funfetti Angel Food Cake Ingredients
Get ready to create a delightful treat!
For the Cake
- Large Egg Whites (12) – Room temperature egg whites whip up better, giving your Funfetti Angel Food Cake the perfect airy texture.
- Sugar (1 1/2 Cups, divided) – Use half for sweet meringue stability and the rest for mixing with the flour for added sweetness.
- Cake Flour (3/4 Cup + 1 TBS) – Sifting multiple times ensures a super light cake structure while maintaining tenderness.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Pure vanilla enhances flavor and elevates the cake’s overall deliciousness.
- Cream of Tartar (pinch) – This stabilizer helps maintain the volume of your meringue, ensuring the cake stays fluffy.
- Salt (1/8 tsp) – A touch of salt balances the sweetness, enhancing the cake’s flavors.
- Funfetti Sprinkles (1/3 Cup) – These colorful bits add a festive flair and joy to each slice.
For the Fluffy Marshmallow Frosting
- Sugar (1 1/4 Cups) – Essential for achieving the right meringue consistency and sweetness in your frosting.
- Large Egg Whites (6) – Helps create a light and voluminous frosting to crown your cake beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract (3/4 tsp) – Adds a fragrant touch that complements the sweetness of the marshmallow frosting.
- Kosher Salt (1/2 tsp) – Balances the sweet flavors of the frosting perfectly.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious Funfetti Angel Food Cake that’s perfect for any occasion!
How to Make Funfetti Angel Food Cake
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9″ tube pan by leaving it ungreased; this helps your cake rise beautifully.
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Sift the cake flour and 3/4 cup of sugar together multiple times. This aerates the flour, ensuring a light cake, then gently mix in the funfetti sprinkles for that festive touch.
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Beat the egg whites, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract in a mixer until frothy, which should take about 2 minutes. You’re aiming for soft peaks!
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Add the remaining sugar gradually, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the mixture until a shiny, stiff meringue forms. It should hold peaks and be smooth!
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Fold in the flour-sugar mixture in thirds, doing this carefully to maintain the airiness—just mix until combined without overworking it.
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Spoon the batter into the prepared tube pan and gently bang it on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped inside.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. You want it to be golden brown and springy to the touch.
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Invert the cake immediately after baking to cool it upside down in the pan. This helps preserve its height and lightness while cooling.
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Prepare the frosting just before serving by combining egg whites and sugar in a heatproof bowl and suspending it over simmering water. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is hot.
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Whisk on high speed until cooled and fluffy, then gently add the vanilla extract and kosher salt for that delightful flavor.
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Frost your cooled angel food cake liberally with the fluffy marshmallow frosting, then torch or broil it until lightly browned for a perfect finish.
Optional: Garnish with extra funfetti sprinkles on top for an extra festive look!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Funfetti Angel Food Cake Variations
Feel inspired to make this cake your own with delightful twists and flavor swaps!
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Citrus Twist: Substitute vanilla extract with lemon or orange extract for a refreshing zing. The bright flavors will elevate your cake’s zestiness.
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Chocolate Chip Delight: Replace funfetti sprinkles with mini chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent version. Each bite will melt in your mouth with chocolatey goodness!
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Almond Essence: Use almond extract instead of vanilla to provide a delightful nutty aroma. This subtle change adds a sophisticated touch to your cake.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the batter for a delightful texture variation. The crunch pairs beautifully with the cake’s fluffy softness!
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Berry Bliss: Add fresh or freeze-dried berries to the batter for a fruity burst in every slice. Strawberry or raspberry flavors create a gorgeous color and taste contrast.
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Maple Magic: Replace sugar in the frosting with pure maple syrup for a sweet, earthy flavor. This creates a unique sweetness that’s perfect for fall celebrations.
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Spicy Heat: For a kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon to the cake batter. This unexpected twist will leave guests guessing while they enjoy every bite!
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Vegan Option: Use aquafaba (chickpea brine) instead of egg whites for a vegan-friendly alternative. You won’t lose out on the fluffiness, and it’s just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Funfetti Angel Food Cake
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Room Temperature: Keep your Funfetti Angel Food Cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its delightful texture.
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Fridge: If you prefer it chilled, store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be aware that it may lose some of its airy quality.
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Freezer: For longer storage, slice the cake and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To enjoy your frozen slices, thaw them in the fridge overnight and serve at room temperature, or briefly warm them in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel.
Tips for the Best Funfetti Angel Food Cake
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Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for optimal whipping, leading to a beautifully airy Funfetti Angel Food Cake.
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Sifting is Key: Sift the cake flour and sugar multiple times to incorporate air; this step helps achieve that light texture we all love.
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Gentle Folding: When incorporating the flour mixture into the meringue, fold gently to maintain volume—over mixing will lead to a dense cake.
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Oven Door Caution: Avoid opening the oven door during baking; fluctuations in temperature can cause your cake to deflate.
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Cooling Technique: Invert the cake immediately after baking to prevent it from collapsing—this is crucial for retaining its fluffy form.
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Frosting Timing: Apply the fluffy marshmallow frosting 30-60 minutes before serving to prevent it from breaking down, ensuring your cake remains beautiful for longer.
What to Serve with Funfetti Angel Food Cake?
Elevate your dessert experience by complementing this airy delight with some charming pairings that will create an unforgettable meal.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a pop of color and a refreshing tartness that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cake.
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Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the airy texture of the cake, creating a dreamy, cloud-like experience with every bite. A dollop on top is simply irresistible!
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Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or a fruity sorbet adds richness and creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the fluffy structure of the Funfetti Angel Food Cake.
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Fruit Compote: A warm or chilled fruit compote, such as berry or peach, introduces a delightful zing that cuts through the sweetness, making each bite balanced and inviting.
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Lemonade or Sparkling Water: Refreshing beverages like lemonade or sparkling water with a sprig of mint cleanse the palate and keep the experience light and bright.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of molten chocolate or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings adds an indulgent flair to the cake without overwhelming its delicate flavor.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These provide a playful twist and add an elegant touch when served alongside, making each bite a delightful surprise.
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Mini Cupcakes: Serve mini cupcakes on the side for guests to enjoy a variety of flavors, keeping the celebration vibrant and fun!
Enhance your Funfetti Angel Food Cake experience with these amazing additions that will surely leave your guests smiling and satisfied!
Make Ahead Options
These Funfetti Angel Food Cake components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the baking instructions and let the cake cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container. For the fluffy marshmallow frosting, it’s best to whip it fresh before serving, but you can prepare the egg whites and sugar mixture up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it until you’re ready to beat it into frosting. When ready to serve, simply frost your cake before enjoying it, and rest assured that the cake will be just as delightful and airy as when made fresh!
Funfetti Angel Food Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of egg whites should I use for the Funfetti Angel Food Cake?
Absolutely, for the best results, use large egg whites that are at room temperature. This temperature allows for optimal whipping, giving your cake the airy texture it is known for. Cold egg whites can be stubborn and may not reach the stiff peaks necessary for that perfect meringue.
How should I store my Funfetti Angel Food Cake?
Very simply! Store your Funfetti Angel Food Cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer it chilled, an airtight container in the fridge will keep it fresh for up to 3 days, although it may lose a bit of its delightful fluffiness. Just make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze my Funfetti Angel Food Cake?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and your cake will maintain its integrity for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or warm it briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste!
What if my meringue doesn’t form stiff peaks?
If your meringue isn’t forming stiff peaks, it could be due to a few reasons. First, double-check that no yolk has gotten into your egg whites, as even a small amount of fat can hinder the whipping process. Also, ensure that your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and dry. Sometimes adding a pinch of cream of tartar helps stabilize your meringue better.
Is this Funfetti Angel Food Cake gluten-free?
Yes! This cake is gluten-free since it is primarily made with cake flour, which is a lower-gluten option compared to all-purpose flour. Just make sure to choose a gluten-free brand of cake flour if you’re serving those with gluten sensitivities. With its light, airy texture, this cake is perfect for everyone to enjoy!
Can I use alternatives to the funfetti sprinkles?
The more the merrier! While traditional funfetti sprinkles add a whimsical touch, feel free to swap them out for mini chocolate chips or even dried fruit for a unique twist. Just remember, whatever you choose should complement the cake’s light texture, so get creative and enjoy the process!
Funfetti Angel Food Cake: A Light and Festive Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9" tube pan by leaving it ungreased.
- Sift the cake flour and 3/4 cup of sugar together multiple times, then gently mix in the funfetti sprinkles.
- Beat the egg whites, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract in a mixer until frothy, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the remaining sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until a shiny, stiff meringue forms.
- Fold in the flour-sugar mixture in thirds, carefully mixing until combined.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared tube pan and bang it gently on the counter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- Invert the cake immediately after baking to cool upside down.
- Combine egg whites and sugar in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, whisking until the sugar dissolves.
- Whisk on high speed until cooled and fluffy, then add vanilla extract and kosher salt.
- Frost your cooled cake liberally with fluffy marshmallow frosting, then optionally torch or broil until lightly browned.