The Best Homemade Vanilla Cake
Vanilla Cake lovers rejoice! Discover easy, fluffy, and delicious recipes to bake the perfect vanilla cake for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour The base that gives structure to the cake while keeping it soft.
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder Helps the cake rise to achieve its light, airy texture.
- ½ tsp salt Enhances the flavor of all the ingredients.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened – Adds richness and ensures a tender crumb.
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar Sweetens the cake while creating a soft texture.
- 4 large eggs Provide structure, moisture, and a light, fluffy consistency.
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract The star of the show, adding a deep, aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk Keeps the cake moist and adds creaminess.
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened – Creates a rich, creamy base for the frosting.
- 4 cups powdered sugar Adds sweetness and a smooth texture.
- 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk Adjusts the consistency to make the frosting light and spreadable.
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract Complements the cake with a rich vanilla flavor.
- A pinch of salt Balances the sweetness perfectly.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Preheat the Oven: Turn the oven on to 350°F (175°C) to preheat it. Line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper for easy release, or grease and flour them.
- Organize Your Ingredients: Measure everything out and bring your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature. This ensures smooth mixing and the best texture.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- This step evenly distributes the leavening agents, ensuring your cake rises beautifully.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat ¾ cup softened unsalted butter and 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix for about 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Pro Tip: Properly creamed butter and sugar create air pockets, resulting in a soft, fluffy cake.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
- Beat in 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract, letting its rich aroma shine through.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with 1 cup whole milk in two parts. Mix on low speed until barely blended, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients. To keep the batter light, don't overmix.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Using a spatula, level the tops of the batter after dividing it equally among the pans.
- A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean after 28 to 30 minutes of baking.
- After 10 minutes of cooling in the pans, move the cakes to a wire rack to finish cooling.
Step 7: Make the Buttercream Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy.
- Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, alternating with 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Stir in 2 tsp vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Step 8: Assemble and Decorate
- Spread a thick layer of frosting over the top of one cake layer that has been placed on a serving platter.
- Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
- Decorate with sprinkles, edible flowers, or fresh fruit for an elegant touch.
Notes
Recipe Recap: The Best Homemade Vanilla Cake
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 350 kcal per slice
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 47g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 4g
Recipe Categories
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Method: Baking
- Keyword: Vanilla cake, classic dessert, fluffy homemade cake, buttercream frosting
- Skill Level: Beginner-friendly