Vanilla Cake Recipe
vanilla cake recipe is your ticket to a delightful baking adventure! Imagine a soft, fluffy cake that melts in your mouth, infused with the sweet aroma of pure vanilla. This simple recipe combines everyday ingredients like all-purpose flour, sugar, and creamy butter to create a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a dash of baking powder and a splash of milk, you’ll whip up a cake that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this scrumptious delight!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
vanilla cake recipe
Equipment
- 2 9-inch round cake pans Greased and floured to prevent sticking.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure and texture.
- 3 ½ tsp baking powder Acts as a leavening agent.
- ½ tsp salt Enhances flavors.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar Sweetens the cake.
- ½ cup unsalted butter Adds richness and moisture.
- 3 large eggs Binds ingredients together.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Infuses flavor.
- 1 cup milk Adds moisture.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect all ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups sugar, ½ cup unsalted butter, 1 cup milk, 3 ½ tsp baking powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and ½ tsp salt.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Mix in eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, blending until smooth.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour.
Step 7: Prepare the Baking Pan
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Pour the Batter
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
Step 9: Bake the Cakes
- Place the pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool the Cakes
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 11: Frost and Enjoy
- Once cooled, frost with your favorite vanilla frosting and enjoy your delightful creation!
Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Cake Recipe
- It’s incredibly simple to make, perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Delivers a moist, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile enough to dress up for celebrations or enjoy plain.
- Uses pantry staples, making it easy to whip up anytime.
- Can be customized with your favorite flavors or fillings.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Dessert |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 50 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian |
| Serves: | 8-10 |
| Best Served: | With frosting or fresh fruit |
Ingredients for Vanilla Cake Recipe
- All-purpose flour – provides the structure and texture for the cake.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.
- Baking powder – acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise.
- Salt – enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter – adds richness and moisture to the cake.
- Eggs – bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
- Vanilla extract – infuses the cake with a delightful vanilla flavor.
- Milk – adds moisture and helps achieve the right batter consistency.
How to Make the Vanilla Cake Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups sugar, ½ cup unsalted butter, 1 cup milk, 3 ½ tsp baking powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and ½ tsp salt.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in 3 large eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, blending until smooth.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour.
Step 7: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Pour the Batter
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
Step 9: Bake the Cakes
Place the pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool the Cakes
Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 11: Frost and Enjoy
Once cooled, frost with your favorite vanilla frosting and enjoy your delightful creation!
Pro Tips for Making the Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix; mix just until combined for a light cake.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract.
- Grease and flour your cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting for best results.
How to Serve Vanilla Cake Recipe
Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your vanilla cake:
- Top with fresh berries for a burst of flavor.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nuts.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Layer with fruit preserves for a fruity twist.
- Frost with cream cheese icing for a tangy contrast.
- Serve as a base for a trifle with layers of custard and fruit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Proper storage ensures your vanilla cake stays fresh and delicious.
Storing Leftovers
Follow these tips to keep your cake tasty:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped slices in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
To freeze your vanilla cake:
- Wrap the whole cake or slices tightly in plastic wrap.
- Then wrap in aluminum foil for extra protection.
- Label with the date and type of cake.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
For the best texture and taste when reheating:
- Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight.
- For slices, microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- For the whole cake, warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
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FAQs
What can I substitute for eggs in this vanilla cake recipe?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use unsweetened applesauce, mashed bananas, or a flaxseed meal mixed with water. Each of these options will help bind the ingredients and keep your cake moist and delicious!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. For a lighter cake, consider using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to maintain moisture while adding some nutritional benefits.
How do I store leftover vanilla cake?
To keep your leftover vanilla cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it or freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap.