The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe

Name: The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

Enjoy a slice of the best vanilla cake that's fluffy, moist, and bursting with flavor.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:34:20.252Z

This vanilla cake recipe has been passed down through generations, delivering a perfect balance of flavor and texture. It's the ideal dessert for any occasion, whether it's a birthday party or a simple family gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Rich vanilla flavor that pairs perfectly with any frosting
Versatile enough for any celebration or everyday treat

      

A Classic Dessert for Any Occasion

Vanilla cake is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. Its light and fluffy texture makes it the perfect base for any frosting or topping, allowing you to customize it for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a baby shower, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home, this vanilla cake will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

What sets this vanilla cake apart is its rich flavor profile. With just the right amount of vanilla extract, each bite is infused with a warm, inviting taste that pairs beautifully with a variety of frostings. From buttercream to cream cheese, the possibilities are endless. You can even enjoy it plain with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a simpler treat.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking can be a science, and understanding the process can elevate your cake from good to extraordinary. One key element is ensuring that your butter is softened properly. This allows for better incorporation with sugar, leading to a light and airy batter. Make sure to let your butter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting your recipe.

Another essential tip is to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve precise measurements, particularly for flour, which can be easily compacted. Following the mixing instructions closely will also ensure that your ingredients combine seamlessly, giving you that perfect fluffy cake texture you're aiming for.

Storing and Serving Your Vanilla Cake

Once your cake is baked and frosted, you'll want to store it properly to maintain its freshness. If you have leftovers, you can keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it, but be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

When it comes to serving, a vanilla cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits, ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a more elegant presentation, you can decorate with seasonal berries or edible flowers, making it not only a delicious dessert but also a visually stunning centerpiece at your table.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
3 large eggs

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready before starting.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat 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, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Frost with your favorite frosting.

Enjoy your delicious vanilla cake!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This includes eggs, butter, and milk, which help create a smoother batter. Also, be cautious not to overmix once you combine the wet and dry ingredients; mixing just until combined helps prevent a dense cake.

Consider using cake strips around your pans while baking. These strips help to insulate the sides of the cake pans, leading to even baking and minimizing the risk of domed tops. The result is a perfectly level cake that’s easier to frost and stack.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is a classic vanilla cake, you can easily customize it to your liking. For a fun twist, try adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the batter for a refreshing burst of flavor. You can also incorporate almond extract for a different aromatic profile that complements the vanilla beautifully.

For a richer experience, consider adding chocolate chips or sprinkles to the batter. This not only adds flavor but also texture, making each bite even more delightful. Experimenting with different frostings, like a chocolate ganache or a fruity glaze, can also transform this vanilla cake into something uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

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

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

→ How do I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I freeze this vanilla cake?

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

→ What frosting goes well with this cake?

Buttercream frosting, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream are all great choices.