Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake

Name: Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings Bakery

Enjoy the delightful taste of Costco's famous vanilla cake right at home with this easy copycat recipe.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:18:21.469Z

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake recipe captures the essence of the beloved store-bought version. It's fluffy, moist, and adorned with a luscious frosting that makes it perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that rivals the original
Deliciously sweet vanilla flavor with a hint of almond
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any sweet craving

      

The Perfect Celebration Cake

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is the ultimate choice for any celebration, whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or a casual get-together. Its light and fluffy texture makes it a crowd-pleaser, allowing guests to enjoy every bite without feeling weighed down. The cake's delightful sweetness, complemented by hints of vanilla and almond, creates a flavor profile that's both comforting and sophisticated.

When you want to impress your friends and family with your baking skills, this cake delivers. Its beautiful layers and creamy frosting make for a stunning presentation, ensuring that it becomes the centerpiece of your dessert table. Plus, it's easy to customize with various toppings, sprinkles, or fresh fruits, allowing you to tailor it to any theme or occasion.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake, it's essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid adding too much, which can lead to a dense cake. Additionally, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar, resulting in a light and airy batter.

Another key tip is to rotate your cake pans halfway through the baking process. This helps to ensure even baking and prevents one side from browning faster than the other. Always check for doneness with a toothpick, as oven temperatures can vary. If the toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready to come out!

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once you've assembled your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake, you may wonder how to store it properly. To keep it fresh, cover the cake with a cake dome or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic followed by aluminum foil, which can last for up to 3 months.

When serving this cake, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. You can also serve it alongside fresh berries to add a tart contrast to the sweet flavors, making for a beautifully balanced dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup whole milk

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract

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

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until well combined.

Bake the Cake

Evenly distribute the batter among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and repeat. Top with the third layer and frost the entire cake. Decorate as desired.

For best results, let the cake sit for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make some adjustments to the recipe, there are a few substitutions you can consider. For a dairy-free version, swap out the whole milk with almond milk or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this delicious cake, regardless of dietary restrictions.

For those who want to enhance the flavor even further, you can experiment by adding a tablespoon of lemon zest or orange zest to the batter. This addition will provide a subtle citrus aroma that complements the vanilla beautifully, giving your cake a unique twist.

Perfect Pairings

Pair your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake with a variety of beverages for a delightful experience. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk complements the sweetness perfectly, enhancing the flavors of the cake. For a more festive occasion, consider serving it with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne, which adds an elegant touch to your dessert.

If you're hosting a gathering, providing a selection of toppings and sauces, such as chocolate ganache or caramel drizzle, allows your guests to personalize their slice. This interactive element not only makes serving more fun but also caters to different taste preferences, ensuring that everyone enjoys their dessert just the way they like it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before frosting.

→ What can I substitute for almond extract?

You can omit the almond extract or replace it with more vanilla extract for a nut-free version.

→ Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to use cream cheese frosting or chocolate frosting for a different flavor.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.