If there’s one dessert guaranteed to spark a smile and make any gathering feel instantly more celebratory, it’s Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes. These cheerful treats are a pure burst of joy—tender, moist vanilla cupcakes flecked inside and out with vibrant rainbow sprinkles, and topped with a cloud of creamy buttercream frosting. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a picnic, or simply because you believe every day deserves a pop of color, Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes deliver fun and nostalgia in every bite. Let’s dive into the world of sprinkles and sweetness together!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up a batch of these cupcakes with classic pantry staples. Every ingredient is essential, each playing a special part in creating those light, fluffy cupcakes and a perfectly luscious frosting. And of course, don’t skimp on the sprinkles—they’re the star of the show!
- All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet soft base for the cupcakes, so they hold their shape and stay tender.
- Baking powder: Gives your cupcakes their beautiful lift and airy crumb—don’t forget this leavening magic!
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances every flavor.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Creates a rich, velvety texture in both the batter and the frosting—plus that classic buttery taste.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens everything up and helps create that delicate golden crust on top.
- Large eggs (room temperature): Bind the batter and create structure—room temp eggs mix in more smoothly!
- Vanilla extract: Brings a warm, comforting aroma that rounds out every bite.
- Whole milk: Keeps the cupcakes moist and contributes to their softness.
- Rainbow sprinkles (jimmies-style): The true confetti magic—jimmies hold their color and stay vibrant after baking.
- Powdered sugar: The secret to melt-in-your-mouth, pillowy frosting.
- Heavy cream or milk: Makes the frosting billowy and easy to spread.
- Extra rainbow sprinkles (for garnish): Because you can never have too many sprinkles on Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes!
- Pinch of salt (for frosting): Just a little lifts and balances the sweetness in your frosting.
How to Make Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes
Step 1: Line and Preheat
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cheerful paper liners. This step sets the stage for easy cleanup and guarantees your Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes will release perfectly once baked—no sticking!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This quick pre-mix ensures that the leaveners and salt are evenly distributed, leading to cupcakes that rise evenly and taste delicious in every bite.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar for 2 to 3 minutes until pale and fluffy. This process incorporates air, setting up your cupcakes for that coveted light, bakery-style crumb you love in Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is thoroughly incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant, homey touch that instantly makes the kitchen smell amazing.
Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk
With the mixer on low, add your dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, and starting and ending with the flour mixture. This gradual approach ensures a smooth, lump-free batter and helps maintain those lovely air pockets for fluffier cupcakes.
Step 6: Fold in Sprinkles
Time for the fun part—gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles! Use a spatula to distribute them evenly, being careful not to overmix. These jimmies will stay bright and pretty, creating those iconic pops of color inside your baked Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes.
Step 7: Fill and Bake
Divide the batter among your liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, just until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a crumb or two. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely—it’s worth the wait!
Step 8: Make Frosting
Beat the softened butter for the frosting until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar. Once incorporated, add heavy cream (or milk), vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Whip it all together on medium-high for a fluffy, billowy finish—the perfect cloud topping for your Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes.
Step 9: Frost and Decorate
Frost your cooled cupcakes generously, using a spatula or piping bag for extra flair. Finish with a flourish of extra rainbow sprinkles. Every bite is a mini celebration!
How to Serve Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes
Garnishes
Nothing brings more sparkle to your cupcakes than an extra handful of rainbow sprinkles on top! For special occasions, add edible glitter, a swirl of colored sanding sugar, or a single bright candy on each cupcake to make each one unique and irresistible.
Side Dishes
Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes shine at parties and pair beautifully with other crowd-pleasers. Serve alongside a fruit platter, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a colorful punch to build on the fun, festive vibe. They’re especially wonderful with coffee or a cup of milk for that nostalgic after-school snack feel.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn dessert into a dazzling centerpiece! Stack Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes on a tiered stand, or arrange them in the shape of a number or letter for birthdays. Consider setting up a DIY cupcake decorating station so guests can add even more sprinkles, candies, or mini flags to their own cupcakes—everyone gets to join the fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes are just as delightful the next day! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, keep them refrigerated and they’ll stay soft and delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze these cupcakes for future celebrations. Freeze unfrosted cupcakes tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bring them to room temperature, frost, and decorate with fresh sprinkles for that just-baked charm.
Reheating
If you prefer your cupcakes just a bit warm (who doesn’t?), pop unfrosted cupcakes in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For frosted cupcakes, allow to come to room temperature or gently warm using your oven’s lowest setting—just be mindful to keep that beautiful frosting intact!
FAQs
Can I use nonpareils or other types of sprinkles?
Stick with jimmies-style rainbow sprinkles for the best results. Nonpareils tend to bleed and can dye your batter, giving you a muddier look instead of bright, distinct confetti.
How do I prevent my cupcakes from sinking?
Be careful not to overmix the batter and make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. Also, always check that your baking powder is fresh for maximum rise!
Can I make these Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed egg or commercial egg replacer, but know that the texture may be a bit denser. The sprinkles and flavor will still shine!
How do I make the frosting thicker or thinner?
If your frosting is too thick, add a splash more cream or milk; if it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. Beat well and taste as you go for perfect consistency every time.
Are Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes suitable for kids’ parties?
Absolutely! These cupcakes are always a hit with kids thanks to their bright colors, sprinkles, and soft, sweet flavor. They’re also easy to serve and eat—no forks required.
Final Thoughts
I can’t think of a better way to brighten up your day or make someone feel special than with a cheerful batch of Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes. Every swirl of frosting and burst of color brings a sense of celebration no matter the occasion. So preheat your oven, grab your favorite sprinkles, and get ready to spread a little joy—your cupcakes are sure to be the highlight of the party!
Print
Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Confetti Sprinkle Cupcakes are a delightful treat that brings a burst of color and fun to any celebration. Moist and fluffy vanilla cupcakes studded with rainbow sprinkles, topped with a creamy vanilla frosting and more sprinkles for a festive touch.
Ingredients
Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup rainbow sprinkles (jimmies-style, not nonpareils)
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Extra rainbow sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
- Prepare the Cupcake Batter: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cream butter and sugar, beat in eggs and vanilla. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk. Fold in rainbow sprinkles.
- Bake the Cupcakes: Divide batter into liners and bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: Beat butter, add powdered sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt. Frost cooled cupcakes and decorate with sprinkles.
Notes
- Use jimmies-style sprinkles for best results — nonpareils may bleed into the batter.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
