Name: Vegan Birthday Cake with Sprinkles and Vanilla Buttercream Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 cups super-fine almond flour; 1 1/2 cups sweet white rice flour; 3/4 cup potato starch; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 cup agave nectar; 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk; 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk; 2 tbsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 1/2 cup vegan sprinkles (plus more for decorating); 1 batch vegan vanilla buttercream

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 31 reviews

There is something truly magical about celebrating any special occasion with a show-stopping dessert, and this Vegan Birthday Cake with Sprinkles and Vanilla Buttercream Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s fluffy, tender, and bursting with bright, joyful sprinkles that bring a nostalgic pop of color to every slice. Plus, the rich, creamy vanilla buttercream frosting elevates the whole experience, creating the kind of cake that feels both comforting and festive. Whether you’re vegan, have dietary restrictions, or simply love irresistible cake, this recipe promises a delightful centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows several bowls and measuring cups with different baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a white bowl filled with colorful sprinkles, a bowl with white powder (likely flour or sugar), and a white bowl with a brown liquid that could be vanilla extract. A small clear measuring cup holds a white liquid, likely milk or cream, while a white bowl contains a creamy white frosting with a spoon in it. There is a light pink bowl filled with a pale yellow crumbly mixture, and a metal ¼ cup filled with a white liquid next to it. The containers are neatly placed with some spilled sprinkles and small scattered crumbs around, creating a clean and bright baking scene photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Here’s the recipe’s magic: simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role. Together, they blend to create a light, moist texture and a flavor that’s satisfyingly sweet without being overpowering. Plus, the vegan sprinkles add that unmistakable festive touch that screams celebration!

2 cups super-fine almond flour: Gives the cake a delicate, moist crumb and adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the sweetness.
1 1/2 cups sweet white rice flour: Keeps the cake light and tender, essential for that perfect birthday cake texture.
3/4 cup potato starch: Helps bind the ingredients together and contributes to the fluffy crumb.
1 tbsp baking powder: The secret lift-maker that ensures your cake rises beautifully.
1 tsp kosher salt: Balances the sweetness, rounding out the flavor.
1 cup agave nectar: A natural, plant-based sweetener that creates moistness and just the right touch of sweetness.
1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk: Adds creaminess and richness, making every bite luscious.
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk: Lightens the batter and keeps it dairy-free.
2 tbsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, classic birthday cake flavor.
1/2 cup vegan sprinkles (plus more for decorating): The fun pop of color and texture that makes this cake truly festive.
1 batch vegan vanilla buttercream: The crowning glory, smooth and sweet with that perfect vanilla punch.

How to Make Vegan Birthday Cake with Sprinkles and Vanilla Buttercream Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

Start by setting your oven to 350°F to preheat, and grab two 9-inch cake pans. Line them with silicone mats or parchment paper for a non-stick finish. This step ensures even baking and easy removal, making your life so much easier later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift your almond flour, white rice flour, potato starch, baking powder, and salt together. Sifting not only combines the ingredients evenly but also aerates the mixture, which is key for a light cake texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together the agave nectar, full-fat canned coconut milk, almond milk, and both vanilla extracts. This creamy blend of wet ingredients will add moisture and that classic birthday cake flavor.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir well until the batter is smooth and lump-free. This helps everything meld perfectly for a consistent crumb.

Step 5: Add the Sprinkles

Carefully fold in the vegan sprinkles. This is where the fun—and flavor—really begins to shine. The sprinkles provide colorful pockets throughout the cake, making each slice a visual and tasty treat.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step ensures a fully cooked, tender cake that’s not too dense or dry.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Allow your cakes to cool fully in their pans before unmolding. This prevents them from breaking and lets the texture firm up slightly for easier frosting.

Step 8: Frost and Assemble

Flip the cooled cakes gently onto a cake stand or plate. Spread a generous cup of vegan vanilla buttercream on the bottom layer, and sprinkle lightly with a few extra sprinkles.

Step 9: Finish with Frosting and Decorate

Place the second cake layer on top, frost all over—including the sides—and finish by decorating the top with as many sprinkles as you like. This final flourish makes it look truly festive and irresistible.

How to Serve Vegan Birthday Cake with Sprinkles and Vanilla Buttercream Recipe

The image shows a round, two-layer cake with smooth white frosting fully covering the sides and top. The top surface and the bottom edge of the cake are decorated with vibrant, colorful sprinkles in shades of pink, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. The cake sits on a white marble cake stand with a wooden base, and the whole setting is against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To enhance the look and taste of your cake, consider additional edible touches like fresh berries, edible flowers, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. These simple garnishes can elevate presentation and add subtle layers of flavor.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of almond milk, a cup of fresh fruit sorbet, or a vibrant fruit salad to balance out the sweetness and keep the celebration light and joyful.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Vegan Birthday Cake with Sprinkles and Vanilla Buttercream Recipe on a styled cake stand with fun, colorful plates and party napkins for a true birthday vibe. Adding themed toppers or personalized messages can make it even more special and tailored to your celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container, then store it at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for about five days to keep it fresh and moist.

Freezing

You can freeze both the unfrosted layers and the fully assembled cake. Wrap each layer separately in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting or serving.

Reheating

Since this cake is best enjoyed cool or at room temperature, reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you prefer a softer texture, a few seconds in the microwave (covered loosely) can gently warm a slice, but be careful not to melt the frosting.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond flour if I have a nut allergy?

Yes! To avoid nuts, you can try using oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of almond flour. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

Are the sprinkles really vegan?

Not all sprinkles are vegan, so be sure to choose ones labeled vegan-friendly, as they won’t contain gelatin or confectioner’s glaze made from shellac.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free thanks to the use of rice flour, potato starch, and almond flour, making it perfect for those avoiding gluten.

How long does the vegan vanilla buttercream keep?

The buttercream can be kept in the fridge for up to one week in an airtight container. Bring it back to room temperature and whip lightly before using.

Can I use another sweetener instead of agave nectar?

Absolutely! Maple syrup or a light corn syrup works well as a substitute, just keep the same volume for sweetness and moisture balance.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Birthday Cake with Sprinkles and Vanilla Buttercream Recipe is not just a dessert—it’s an experience that brings joy and celebration to your table. Whether for a big birthday or simply to treat yourself, its soft texture, colorful sprinkles, and luscious frosting make every bite unforgettable. So go ahead, try baking it and watch it become the star of your next gathering!