The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe (Reader Favorite!)
The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe (Reader Favorite!)
Vanilla cake is a timeless classic that everyone loves, from kids' birthday parties to elegant weddings. This tried-and-true recipe is a reader favorite for its moist texture, rich vanilla flavor, and versatile appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this vanilla cake recipe is simple to follow and guarantees perfect results every time.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
.2 ½ cups (320g) all-purpose flour
.2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
.½ teaspoon salt
.1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
.2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
.4 large eggs, at room temperature
.1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
.1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
For the Buttercream Frosting:
.1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
.4 cups (500g) powdered sugar, sifted
.2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
.2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Bake Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and tap the pans lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat on high for 3 minutes until light and fluffy, adding more cream if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 9: Frost the Cake Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) to the entire cake, then refrigerate for 15-30 minutes. After chilling, frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Step 10: Decorate and Serve For a simple yet elegant finish, garnish with fresh berries, sprinkles, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Slice and serve this delicious vanilla cake at room temperature for the best flavor.
Tips for Success
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth, even batter.
Measure Carefully: Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate measurements, especially with flour.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender and light.Even Layers: For perfectly even cake layers, weigh the batter in each pan or use an ice cream scoop to divide it evenly.
Variations
Vanilla Bean Cake: Swap the vanilla extract for the seeds of a vanilla bean for an intense vanilla flavor.
Funfetti Cake: Fold ½ cup of sprinkles into the batter for a funfetti twist.
Lemon Vanilla Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the frosting for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Conclusion
This vanilla cake recipe is a true reader favorite for a reason—it’s moist, fluffy, and packed with rich vanilla flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to become your go-to recipe whenever you need a simple yet delicious dessert. Happy baking!
No comments