French Vanilla Cake

Name: French Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2-3 tbsp milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich, creamy flavor of this classic French Vanilla Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:10:20.491Z

This French Vanilla Cake is a classic dessert that brings together a moist vanilla sponge with a rich and creamy flavor. Ideal for birthdays, weddings, or simply a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor that is both comforting and delightful
Soft and moist texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile for various frostings and toppings

      

The Essence of French Vanilla

French vanilla is more than just a flavor; it's a culinary experience that captivates the senses. The rich, creamy notes of vanilla beans combined with the buttery cake create a dessert that is both comforting and elegant. This cake encapsulates the essence of traditional French patisserie, making it a delightful centerpiece for any gathering.

When you take a bite of this French Vanilla Cake, you're not just enjoying a dessert; you're indulging in a slice of happiness. The soft texture and aromatic vanilla flavor transport you to a quaint French café, where every bite feels like a celebration. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or simply a Sunday afternoon treat, this cake is sure to impress.

Versatility in Every Slice

One of the standout features of this French Vanilla Cake is its versatility. It serves as a perfect base for a variety of frostings and toppings. From classic vanilla buttercream to rich chocolate ganache or even fresh fruit, the options are endless. You can customize this cake to suit any occasion or personal preference, making it a staple in your baking repertoire.

This cake is also a fantastic canvas for creative decorations. Whether you choose to keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar or go all out with intricate piping, your French Vanilla Cake can reflect your style and the spirit of the event. Don't hesitate to experiment and make this cake uniquely yours!

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with your French Vanilla Cake, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This includes the eggs and butter, as it promotes better mixing and a smoother batter. A well-mixed batter is key to achieving that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone loves.

Additionally, be cautious not to overmix the batter once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which is not what we want. Mix until just combined and let the flour do its magic. Lastly, always check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time, as ovens may vary.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
3 large eggs

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
2-3 tbsp milk

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely. Frost with your favorite vanilla buttercream.

Once frosted, the cake can be decorated with sprinkles or fresh fruit if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This French Vanilla Cake is perfect on its own, but serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes it to the next level. The creamy textures complement each other beautifully, creating a rich dessert experience that is hard to resist. You can also add fresh berries for a pop of color and a hint of tartness.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider pairing slices of this cake with a hot beverage like coffee or tea. The warm drinks enhance the vanilla flavor and provide a comforting contrast to the cake's sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Storing Your Cake

To keep your French Vanilla Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you'd like to preserve it for a longer period, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer, ready for you to defrost and enjoy at a moment's notice.

When you're ready to serve a frozen cake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual warming helps maintain the cake's texture and flavor. Once thawed, you can frost and decorate it as desired, bringing it back to life for any special occasion.

Experimenting with Flavors

While this recipe celebrates the classic French vanilla flavor, don't hesitate to experiment with variations. Consider adding a hint of almond extract for a delightful twist or incorporating citrus zest for a refreshing touch. These subtle changes can elevate the flavor profile and make your cake even more unique.

You can also infuse the cake with different extracts or flavorings, such as coconut or hazelnut, for a personalized touch. Baking is all about creativity, so feel free to adjust the recipe to match your taste preferences and inspire your baking journey!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, cake flour will make the cake even lighter and fluffier.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and frost them the day you plan to serve.

→ What can I use instead of butter for the frosting?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.