The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe

Name: The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp heavy cream; 2 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings Bakery

Discover the secret to making the best vanilla cake that is fluffy, moist, and bursting with rich vanilla flavor. Perfect for any celebration or simply for indulging your sweet tooth!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:16:20.387Z

This vanilla cake is not just any ordinary cake; it's a celebration of flavor and texture. With its perfectly balanced sweetness and buttery richness, it's a cake that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that's simply irresistible
Rich vanilla flavor that shines through in every bite
Versatile for any occasion, from birthdays to weddings

      

The Perfect Base for Any Occasion

This vanilla cake recipe serves as a delightful base for a multitude of celebrations. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just a quiet gathering with friends, this cake will impress everyone with its light and fluffy texture. The richness of the vanilla flavor makes it a versatile choice, pairing beautifully with various fillings and frostings. You can easily adapt it by adding fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips to the batter for an extra twist.

One of the standout features of this vanilla cake is its simplicity. With straightforward ingredients that you may already have in your pantry, this cake is accessible to both novice and experienced bakers alike. The process is uncomplicated, allowing you to focus on the joy of baking rather than getting lost in complex techniques. You'll find that this cake is not only delicious but also a fun project that can be cherished by the whole family.

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the best results with this vanilla cake, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This includes the butter, eggs, and milk. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, creating a smoother batter and a more uniform cake. Additionally, be precise with your measurements; using a kitchen scale can help ensure accuracy, especially with the flour and sugar.

Another key tip is to avoid over-mixing the batter once you've combined the wet and dry ingredients. Over-mixing can lead to a denser cake, which is not what we want here. Mix just until you see no flour streaks. Finally, always check your cake for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent it from drying out. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Serving and Storing Your Vanilla Cake

Once your cake is frosted and beautifully presented, it's time to serve! This vanilla cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat. You can also elevate your serving by adding fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For special occasions, consider decorating the cake with flowers or themed decorations to match your event.

If you have any leftovers, storing your vanilla cake properly is essential to maintain its moistness and flavor. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for a few days, or you can refrigerate it to extend its shelf life. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing individual slices. Just make sure to wrap them securely to prevent freezer burn.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy cream
2 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add 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, starting and ending with the flour mixture.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared 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 them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Frost with your favorite vanilla frosting.

Enjoy your delicious vanilla cake with family and friends!

Why Vanilla Extract Matters

Using high-quality vanilla extract is crucial in this recipe. It is the star ingredient that imparts the rich flavor we all love in a vanilla cake. Synthetic vanillin, often found in cheaper extracts, lacks the depth of flavor that real vanilla provides. Opt for pure vanilla extract, or even better, try using vanilla bean paste for an intense flavor and delightful flecks in your cake.

Moreover, the aromatics released while baking will fill your kitchen with a comforting aroma that will have everyone eagerly awaiting dessert. The quality of your vanilla can truly make or break the cake, so invest in a good brand to elevate your baking experience.

Creative Frosting Ideas

While the vanilla frosting in this recipe is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different flavors and styles. Adding cocoa powder to your buttercream will create a delightful chocolate frosting, or consider incorporating citrus zest for a refreshing twist. Whipped cream or cream cheese frosting can also provide a tangy contrast to the sweet cake.

For a more sophisticated touch, you can layer your cake with fruit preserves or curds between the cake layers. This not only adds moisture but also introduces a burst of flavor that complements the vanilla beautifully. Don't hesitate to get creative with decorations—fresh fruits, edible flowers, or even themed sprinkles can turn your cake into a stunning centerpiece.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, cake flour will yield a softer and lighter cake.

→ How do I make the cake more moist?

Ensure that you're not overmixing the batter and consider adding a little more milk if needed.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cakes tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use applesauce or a flaxseed mixture as a substitute for eggs.