Delightful Vanilla Cake Recipe for Every Occasion

The aroma of freshly baked vanilla cake wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine slicing into a perfectly frosted layer of fluffy goodness, revealing that soft texture that just melts in your mouth. This Vanilla Cake Recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also the kind of dessert that makes you feel like a superstar baker—even if your only other baking experience was attempting to make toast.

I remember the first time I tackled this classic dessert. My family gathered around as I nervously pulled it from the oven, unsure if it would be a culinary triumph or an epic fail. Spoiler alert: it was pure magic! The joy on my kids’ faces when they took their first bite was priceless and made me realize that this simple vanilla cake could be the star of any gathering.

I still chuckle at my daughter’s dramatic reaction when she tasted this cake for the first time—she declared it “better than unicorns!” Her enthusiastic praise convinced me that this recipe had officially earned its place in our family’s dessert rotation.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: A versatile flour works best here; it provides structure without being too heavy.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create that lovely golden crust when baked.
• Baking Powder: This leavening agent is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture we adore.
• Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for rich flavor and easy blending into your batter.
• Eggs: Fresh eggs add moisture and richness; room temperature eggs mix better into the batter.
• Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract to infuse your cake with an irresistible aroma and taste.
• Milk: Whole milk enhances moisture; you can substitute with almond milk if desired.
• Frosting (optional): Choose your favorite frosting; cream cheese or buttercream are popular choices!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round 9-inch cake pans with butter or cooking spray so they release easily later.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sugar until well combined. The sweet scent of sugar filling the air is always a good sign!

Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat softened butter until creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add in your dry mixture along with eggs and continue mixing until fluffy. The batter should look light and have small air bubbles forming.

Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in milk and vanilla extract into the mixture slowly while mixing on low speed until everything blends smoothly—your kitchen should smell heavenly now!

Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth out the tops. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool Down & Frosting Time: Once baked to golden perfection, allow cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Once cooled completely, stack them up with frosting between layers!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then gradually add eggs and dry ingredients. This sequence ensures a well-mixed batter without overworking it.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vanilla for almond extract or add fresh fruits for a seasonal twist. These small changes can elevate your cake to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap.

The first time I made this vanilla cake, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a slice! Their laughter filled the kitchen, creating memories sweeter than any frosting.

FAQ

Can I use different flavors in this vanilla cake recipe?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla extract with almond or lemon extracts for unique flavors.

How can I make my vanilla cake more moist?

Adding sour cream or yogurt will keep your cake moist and flavorful.

What’s the best way to frost my vanilla cake?

Let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid melting and sliding off layers.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Vanilla Cake Recipe

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• Author: Mia Hanry
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in a light and fluffy vanilla cake that’s perfect for any celebration. This simple recipe guarantees a delightful treat everyone will adore.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• Frosting of your choice (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round 9-inch cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter until light. Gradually add the dry mixture and eggs, mixing until fluffy.
4. Slowly blend in milk and vanilla until smooth.
5. Divide batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks. Frost when completely cool.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 80mg