Funfetti Ice Cream Cake takes a boxed Funfetti cake to new heights! I love the flavor and colors of a simple Funfetti cake. Growing up, it was one of our go-to's for birthday cake and ice cream. This recipe adds a thick layer of vanilla ice cream for the perfect summer dessert that is sure to impress! It makes one of the best ice cream birthday cake ideas, too.
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I often refer to “Funfetti” as “birthday” because the rainbow sprinkles just scream party! This birthday cake ice cream cake replaces vanilla frosting with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent cake everyone will love! Just remember, you don’t need to have a summer birthday to enjoy a nice, thick slice.
If you like ice cream cake recipes, you will love this Kit Kat Ice Cream Cake and Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s budget-friendly: I love that this ice cream birthday cake recipe is so cheap to make. It shows that you can create something scrumptious without having to spend a lot of money.
- It’s easy to make: This is so simple! The boxed cake mix and store-bought ice cream save so much time without having to sacrifice great flavor and texture. It’s one of the best shortcut birthday ice cream cake desserts.
- It’s fun to customize: You can make this your own! Try different toppings like crushed cookies, edible cookie dough, or even M&Ms. There are endless Funfetti cake ideas!
Ingredients
Below is everything you’ll need to make this Funfetti ice cream cake. This includes the components for the homemade whipped cream and the rainbow sprinkles for decoration!
- Funfetti cake: Grab whatever ingredients are listed on the box as well. Prepare the cake according to the instructions in two 8-inch cake pans. Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before working on your homemade ice cream cake.
- Vanilla ice cream: Use whatever brand and variety of vanilla ice cream you want for this recipe. French vanilla and vanilla bean work great, too.
- Heavy cream: I like to make homemade whipped cream to frost the outside of the cake. It holds up well in the freezer and doesn’t make for an overly sweet bite. Ensure the cream is cold for it to whip the best.
- Sugar: I add just a little sugar to sweeten the cream, but not too much to overpower the other flavors of this birthday cake with ice cream.
- Vanilla extract: The subtle vanilla flavor in the cream takes the frosting for the ice cream cake to the next level. It adds flavor without more sweetness.
- Rainbow sprinkles: Finish your cake with rainbow sprinkles! It reinforces the Funfetti theme, making it the perfect garnish.
See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.
Variations
- Chocolate Ice Cream: Swap the vanilla ice cream for chocolate ice cream for a rich twist.
- French vanilla cake: Make a French vanilla cake instead of Funfetti to create a vanilla flavor explosion!
- Add fresh fruit: Garnish the finished cake with fresh fruit like strawberries and blueberries for more color right before serving.
How to Make an Ice Cream Birthday Cake
To get started on this birthday ice cream cake recipe, you will need to grab two 8-inch cake pans and prepare and bake your Funfetti cakes according to the package directions. While they’re cooling, you can work on the next step!
Step 1: Make the whipped cream. Combine the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl and whip it until there are stiff peaks.
Step 2: Add a layer to the pan. Grab a springform cheesecake pan and place a piece of parchment on the bottom. Then, spread a layer of the creamy whipped cream first.
Step 3: Top with cake and ice cream. Add a layer of cake and top it with the softened vanilla ice cream. Smooth it out well to cover the cake.
Step 4: Add the second cake layer and whipped cream. Add the final cake layer on top of the ice cream, and then spread a thick layer of whipped cream on top.
Step 5: Freeze and remove from the pan. Pop your cake into the freezer for at least 6 hours or overnight if possible. Then, flip the pan onto a cake stand and carefully remove the cake from it.
Step 6: Finish decorating and serve. Garnish the Funfetti ice cream cake with rainbow sprinkles and whatever decorations you want before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Soften the ice cream ahead: Pull your carton of vanilla ice cream out of the freezer about 15 minutes before you plan to use it. You want it to be softened but not soupy.
- Get it in the freezer quickly: Stick the ice cream cake into the freezer ASAP once it’s assembled! It will start melting quickly.
- Use Cool Whip: Skip the homemade whipped cream and finish the cake with a layer of Cool Whip to save time.
If you love recipes like this fun and colorful treat, you may also enjoy this Spring Fudge.
Storage Directions
- Storing: Store your ice cream cake in the freezer for up to 3 months. Don’t refrigerate it because there’s a layer of ice cream in there, it will melt!
- Make Ahead: You may prepare the cake up to 3 days in advance and keep it in the freezer. This is ideal for a birthday party or special occasion, so it’s perfectly firm and ready to eat.
Serving Suggestions
- Make this happy birthday ice cream cake extra special with spring Rolo bites as a sweet and salty garnish. Add them right before serving!
- Add a layer of spicy strawberry jam for a fruity twist with a spicy kick.
- Serve this ice cream cake for a summer event and add these patriotic fruit kabobs on the side or top. Create the ultimate birthday experience and make a homemade pizza like a tortilla pizza or double cheeseburger pizza for lunch or dinner, and enjoy a slice of ice cream cake with sprinkles for dessert.
Recipe FAQs
A sharp knife or cake leveler will do the trick here! Shave off a small slice of the top to make the cake layers flatter and even.
Sure! A naked Funfetti ice cream is delicious, too. It’s a lovely, rustic way to serve it!
Run the knife under hot water for a few seconds to warm the blade. This will give you cleaner and more even slices.
More Delicious Funfetti Desserts
Do you like Funfetti desserts? Here are some recipes you may also like to try.
If you try this recipe and love it please leave a star rating in the recipe card below or even better, drop a review in the comment section, I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to follow along with me on Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube for more easy recipes!
Funfetti Ice Cream Birthday Cake
Equipment
- 9 inch springform pan or cheesecake pan
Ingredients
- 1 box Funfetti Cake Mix plus ingredients on box
- 1 Pint Vanilla Ice Cream
- 3 cups Heavy Whipping Cream
- ¾ cups Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Rainbow Sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- Make Funfetti cake as directed on the box. Allow cake to completely cool before assembling the ice cream cake.
- In a stainless-steel bowl, whip together, heavy whipping cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks have formed.
- Place parchment paper at the bottom of the cheesecake pan. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream.
- Place one 8” round Funfetti cake into the cheesecake pan.
- Spread softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the cake into the pan and smooth the top.
- Place remaining cake on top of ice cream layer.
- Spread remaining whipping cream over top of cake.
- Place cheesecake pan in the freezer for at least 6 hours to overnight for best results.
- Remove cheesecake pan from the freezer. Place cheesecake pan upside down on a cake stand. Unsnap the lock and slide pan off. Remove parchment paper from the top of the cake.
- Decorate however you desire. Place cake back into the freezer until you are ready to serve.
- Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Keep your leftover Funfetti ice cream cake tightly wrapped in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Slice the cake with a warm knife to ensure clean and even slices every time.
- Take your vanilla ice cream out of the freezer about 15 minutes before you need it to allow it plenty of time to soften.
Cassie says
This cake is easier to make than I thought it would be. I will definitely make it again. Kids loved it and adults too. Honestly I should have made 2 of them. Thanks Karin 💕
Karin and Ken says
I’m so happy to hear it!! Thank you for letting me know. All the best. Karin
Sandra says
Everyone loved your cake and asked for the recipe. It tastes great. TFS
Karin and Ken says
You’re most welcome! I’m glad everyone enjoyed it. Thanks for letting me know. All the best. Karin
Max says
The hit of the party. Will definitely make again. Might try different flavors. I bet they’re all delicious. Thx for sharing another great recipe. 💕
Karin and Ken says
Use your favorite flavors!! They all taste great! So happy you enjoyed it. All the best. Karin