Vanilla Cake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect Vanilla Cake, look no further — this is the quintessential recipe that delivers a soft, tender crumb bursting with pure vanilla flavor. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply want to brighten up an ordinary day, this Vanilla Cake is always a crowd-pleaser, thanks to its ridiculously fluffy layers and luscious buttercream. Let me walk you through every detail, so you can bring this classic favorite right to your table and make it taste just as magical as the memories it creates.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Vanilla Cake so unforgettable? It’s really the harmony of classic, simple ingredients working together. Each one has its own important role, from structure to tenderness, flavor to aroma — and every bite reflects that balance.

• Unsalted butter: Creaming this creates those signature soft, airy layers and lets you control the saltiness perfectly.
• Sugar: Sweetens just enough and helps trap air while beating, ensuring a fluffy crumb every time.
• Large eggs: Bring richness and help the cake hold together without being dense.
• Vanilla extract: The heart of our Vanilla Cake, giving it that deep, nostalgic flavor everyone loves.
• Whole milk (room temperature): Adds moisture and keeps your cake light — don’t skip letting it come to room temp for the best mix.
• Flour: The foundational structure, all-purpose is perfect for a balance between softness and stability.
• Baking powder: Delivers the lift for tall, cloudlike layers — no flat cakes here!
• Salt: This pinch sharpens and enhances all those warm flavors so they really sing.
• Classic Buttercream Frosting: The ultimate finishing touch, creamy and sweet, ready to make every slice irresistible.

How to Make Vanilla Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Cake Pans and Oven

Get started by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Generously butter and flour two 8-inch cake pans — this step is key for easy release and picture-perfect layers. Nothing’s worse than a cake that sticks, so give those pans a little extra love!

Step 2: Sift the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This not only blends everything evenly but keeps your Vanilla Cake light and lump-free. Set this bowl aside so it’s ready to go when you need it.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Add your unsalted butter and sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer. Beat them together on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes, until the mixture looks pale and fluffy. This creates tiny air pockets, which are secret to the cake’s irresistible crumb!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well (for about 15 seconds) after each addition. Then pour in the vanilla extract. Lower the mixer speed to keep everything smooth and prevent overmixing at this stage — a little patience guarantees a velvety Vanilla Cake batter.

Step 5: Alternate Flour Mixture and Milk

With the mixer running on low, begin adding the flour mixture and milk to the bowl, alternating between the two and ending with flour. Go slow to keep things silky and avoid lumps. You’ll see the batter come together beautifully right before your eyes.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Evenly divide the Vanilla Cake batter between your two prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula for even baking. Slide them into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Step 7: Cool and Frost

Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to finish cooling completely. Once they’re at room temperature, lavish them with your classic buttercream frosting — this is where your Vanilla Cake transforms from simple to stunning!

How to Serve Vanilla Cake

Garnishes

Simple doesn’t have to mean plain! Dress up your Vanilla Cake with a cloud of piped buttercream, colorful sprinkles, shavings of white chocolate, or a crown of fresh berries. If you’re feeling fancy, a light dusting of edible glitter adds a touch of sparkle that’s sure to impress.

Side Dishes

This cake shines as the centerpiece, but it pairs so nicely with a scoop of homemade ice cream, a bright fruit salad, or even a dollop of tangy whipped crème fraîche. Coffee and tea are natural companions for a cozy, comforting dessert hour.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get playful! Turn your Vanilla Cake into mini layer cakes or cupcakes for parties. Try a naked cake style for a rustic vibe, or use fun cookie cutters to make shapes that will delight kids and adults alike. For a truly show-stopping presentation, stack with rainbow layers or marble the batter with a hint of cocoa.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, wrap them tightly or keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The Vanilla Cake stays moist and flavorful, so you can enjoy a little slice of happiness any time!

Freezing

Vanilla Cake freezes like a dream. Just wrap unfrosted cake layers in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the perfect make-ahead dessert — ideal for prepping ahead before events.

Reheating

If you want that freshly-baked warmth, gently warm individual Vanilla Cake slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Don’t overheat, or you’ll lose the tender crumb. Frosting may melt a bit, but it becomes delightfully gooey!

FAQs

Can I use a different size cake pan?

Absolutely! If you only have 9-inch pans, your Vanilla Cake layers will be a bit thinner, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier. You can also make cupcakes using this recipe; just reduce the bake time to 18–20 minutes.

How can I make my Vanilla Cake extra moist?

For added moisture, make sure not to overbake and consider brushing the cooled layers with a simple syrup before frosting. Room-temperature ingredients also make a big difference!

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Definitely! Fold in your favorite goodies just before pouring the batter into the pans, but keep the amount moderate so you don’t weigh down the delicate cake.

Is there a substitute for whole milk?

You can use 2 percent milk if that’s what you have, but whole milk contributes best to texture and richness. For a non-dairy version, try unsweetened almond or oat milk, though your Vanilla Cake may be slightly less creamy.

What’s the best way to get a bakery-style flat top?

For perfectly flat layers, wrap the outside of your cake pans with damp cake strips before baking. This helps them cook evenly for a picture-perfect Vanilla Cake!

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably special about baking a Vanilla Cake from scratch and seeing the joy it brings to everyone around your table. I hope you give this recipe a try — there’s every chance it’ll become your new go-to favorite for celebrations, comfort, and all those sweet moments in between!

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