The Best Classic Vanilla Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
This classic vanilla cake is a timeless dessert that never goes out of style. Perfectly fluffy and bursting with vanilla flavor, it’s versatile enough for any occasion.
This vanilla cake recipe has been passed down through generations. It’s loved for its simplicity and delicious flavor, making it a favorite for birthdays, weddings, and every celebration in between.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Perfectly light and fluffy texture
- Rich vanilla flavor that shines through
- Versatile base for any frosting or filling
- Great for celebrations or casual gatherings
The Perfect Base for Any Celebration
Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a weekend treat, this classic vanilla cake serves as the ideal canvas for any celebration. Its light and fluffy texture not only makes it delightful to eat but also easy to dress up. From simple buttercream frosting to elaborate fondant decorations, you can customize it to fit any theme or occasion. The cake’s timeless appeal ensures it will be a hit with guests of all ages.
This cake is not just about looks; it’s also about taste. The rich vanilla flavor permeates every bite, making it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Pair it with fresh fruits, chocolate ganache, or seasonal flavors to elevate it even further. No matter how you choose to serve it, this vanilla cake is sure to impress.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your vanilla cake turns out perfectly every time, start by making sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This allows for better mixing and a more uniform batter. When measuring your flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it down, which can lead to a dense cake.
Another crucial tip is to avoid over-mixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Over-mixing can result in a tough texture rather than the desired light and fluffy consistency. Mix until just combined for the best results. Lastly, always keep an eye on your cakes as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when they’re done.
Storing and Serving Your Cake
Once your vanilla cake is baked and frosted, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavor and texture.
When it comes to serving, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra treat. Fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can also add a burst of flavor and visual appeal. This classic vanilla cake is not only delicious on its own but versatile enough to pair with various accompaniments.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream
Make sure to gather all ingredients before you start baking!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Add vanilla and enough heavy cream to achieve desired consistency.
Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Let the cake set for a few minutes before serving for best results!
Frequently Asked Questions
One common question is how to adjust the recipe for different cake sizes. You can scale the ingredients up or down based on the size of your cake pans. For example, if using 6-inch pans, reduce the recipe by about a third. Always keep an eye on baking times, as smaller cakes will cook faster than larger ones.
Another question often arises about substitutions. If you're out of eggs, you can use applesauce or yogurt as a binding agent. For a dairy-free option, plant-based milk and dairy-free butter can be used without compromising the cake's texture or flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
This classic vanilla cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of flavors. Consider serving it with a light fruit compote or a citrus glaze to complement the sweet vanilla. For a richer experience, chocolate ganache or caramel sauce can enhance the cake’s flavor without overpowering it.
When it comes to beverages, a cup of coffee or tea serves as a fantastic pairing with this cake. For a more festive touch, consider serving it with sparkling lemonade or a fruit-infused iced tea, which can refresh your palate and balance the sweetness of the cake.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, using cake flour will give you a lighter texture.
→ How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ What can I use instead of butter in the frosting?
You can use shortening or a vegan butter alternative.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
The Best Classic Vanilla Cake
This classic vanilla cake is a timeless dessert that never goes out of style. Perfectly fluffy and bursting with vanilla flavor, it’s versatile enough for any occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Add vanilla and enough heavy cream to achieve desired consistency.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 4g