The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe

Name: The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 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; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

Discover the secret to a moist and fluffy vanilla cake that will impress everyone at your next gathering.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:35:20.545Z

This vanilla cake is a classic dessert that brings back memories of family gatherings and celebrations. Its light, airy texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a favorite among cake lovers.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously moist and fluffy texture
Rich vanilla flavor that everyone adores
Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to tea time

      

The Perfect Vanilla Cake for Every Occasion

Vanilla cake is a timeless classic that transcends trends and occasions. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this vanilla cake is sure to be the star of the show. Its versatile flavor profile pairs beautifully with various fillings and frostings, making it an ideal canvas for your creativity.

What sets this vanilla cake apart is its moist and fluffy texture. Each bite melts in your mouth, creating a delightful experience that will have your guests asking for seconds. With just the right balance of sweetness, this cake can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with your favorite toppings.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking. This allows for better mixing and a smoother batter, which contributes to the cake's fluffy texture. Additionally, be precise with your measurements; using a kitchen scale can help ensure accuracy, especially when it comes to flour and sugar.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which is not what you want. Mix until just combined for a light and airy finish.

Serving and Enjoying Your Vanilla Cake

When it comes to serving, consider pairing your vanilla cake with fresh fruits or a scoop of ice cream for an extra special treat. Berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, complement the vanilla flavor beautifully and add a pop of color to your dessert table.

For an elegant presentation, try dusting the frosted cake with powdered sugar or adding edible flowers on top. These simple touches can elevate your cake from homemade to show-stopping, impressing your guests even more.

Ingredients for Vanilla Cake

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 all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions for Vanilla Cake

Prepare the Oven and Pans

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. 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 before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, frost with your favorite vanilla frosting.

Enjoy your delicious homemade vanilla cake!

Storing Your Vanilla Cake

If you have any leftovers, storing your vanilla cake properly is essential to maintain its freshness. Place the cake in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to consume it within a couple of days. This will help retain its moisture and flavor.

For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake, but be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. If you want to keep it for an extended period, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

Variations to Try

While this vanilla cake recipe is perfect as is, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations. For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the batter or try a chocolate ganache frosting. You can also incorporate flavors like almond or lemon for a unique take.

If you want to add a burst of flavor, consider folding in fresh fruits, such as blueberries or raspberries, into the batter before baking. These additions not only enhance the taste but also create a beautiful visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, cake flour will give you an even lighter texture.

→ How can I make the cake more moist?

Ensure not to overmix the batter and add a little extra milk if needed.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce or mashed bananas as an egg substitute.