The aroma of a freshly baked vanilla cake wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Its golden crust tempts you with promises of soft textures and sweet flavors, making it an irresistible treat that feels like coming home.

this recipe

Imagine slicing into that soft sponge, the knife gliding effortlessly as if it were cutting clouds. The taste is pure bliss—sweet yet balanced, with just a hint of nostalgia that takes you back to family gatherings and joyous celebrations.

I remember the first time I made this vanilla cake; my friends declared it “the best thing ever” while fighting over the last slice!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for best results; sifting helps create a lighter texture.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and moisture; consider using superfine sugar for a finer crumb.
• Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for proper leavening; check the expiration date like it’s your favorite TV show.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it or your cake will taste flat!
• Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter creates a creamy batter; don’t melt it unless you want dense cake!
• Eggs: Fresh eggs help bind ingredients together; they should be at room temperature for better mixing.
• Vanilla Extract: Use pure extract for authentic flavor; imitation won’t give you that dreamy aroma.
• Milk: Whole milk adds richness; feel free to use almond or oat milk if you’re feeling adventurous.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and dust them with flour. This ensures your cakes slide out easily.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well-blended. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agent.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. You want it pale yellow and airy like a cloud on a sunny day!

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time while mixing continuously. Then add pure vanilla extract and mix until everything is well incorporated. This is where the magic happens!

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add your dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternating with milk. Begin and end with flour—this keeps your batter well-mixed without overworking it.

Bake Your Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth out the tops. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Let’s wrap up this delightful adventure with some frosting advice! Wait until cakes are completely cool before frosting them because melted icing equals sad faces.

Now you have a moist, fluffy vanilla cake ready for the spotlight at any celebration! Whether you dress it up with decadent chocolate ganache or keep it simple with powdered sugar on top—congratulations, you’re now an official baker extraordinaire!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time followed by vanilla. Combine dry ingredients and alternate with milk while mixing. Pour into prepared pans and bake until golden.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in almond extract for a nutty twist, or add lemon zest for brightness. You can also toss in chocolate chips or fresh berries to make it your own. The beauty of a vanilla cake recipe lies in its versatility.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds, ensuring it stays moist and delicious.

A friend once told me that baking is like magic; you follow steps, but sometimes the result surprises you! The first time I made this vanilla cake, it vanished faster than I could say “dessert.”

FAQ

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

Absolutely! Cake flour gives a lighter texture perfect for fluffy cakes.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!

Can I freeze my vanilla cake?

Yes, wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to three months!

Print

Vanilla Cake Recipe

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

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Description

Treat yourself to this easy vanilla cake recipe, featuring a light and fluffy texture along with rich flavor—ideal for any occasion or casual dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool before frosting.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Enhance flavor by using almond extract or lemon zest. For a unique twist, consider adding chocolate chips or fresh berries. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending.