Simple Vanilla Cake Recipe
Light, Fluffy, and Perfect for Any Occasion
There's something timeless and comforting about a classic vanilla cake. It's light, fluffy, and versatile enough to be the base for all kinds of creative frostings, fillings, and decorations. Whether you're making a birthday cake, celebrating an anniversary, or just craving a homemade dessert, this simple vanilla cake recipe is the perfect choice!
With just a handful of ingredients, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers a soft, tender cake every time. So, preheat your oven and let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and enjoy: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, frost with your favorite frosting or serve as-is with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips for Success:
- Room temperature ingredients: For the fluffiest texture, make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you begin. This helps everything blend together smoothly.
- Don’t overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Over mixing the batter can result in a dense cake.
- Customizing your vanilla cake: This recipe is versatile! Feel free to add in your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips, sprinkles, or fruit. You can also experiment with different extracts (like almond or lemon) to change the flavor profile.
- Make it a layered cake: If you're looking to make a multi-layered cake, simply double the recipe and divide the batter between two 8-inch cake pans. You'll need to increase the baking time slightly.
Frosting Ideas:
While this vanilla cake is delicious on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of frostings:
- Buttercream Frosting: A classic choice! Sweet, creamy, and easy to make. You can add a little vanilla extract to complement the cake flavor, or get creative with other flavors like chocolate, strawberry, or lemon.
- Whipped Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter, less sweet option, whipped cream is a great choice. Top with fresh berries for an extra burst of flavor.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: For a tangy twist, cream cheese frosting is a great complement to the vanilla cake. It’s rich and smooth, with a hint of tanginess.
---
Why You'll Love This Vanilla Cake:
- Easy to make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this cake comes together in no time.
- Perfect texture: It’s light, fluffy, and moist—just the way a vanilla cake should be.
- Versatile: Whether you serve it plain, with frosting, or topped with fresh fruit, this cake is a blank canvas for your creativity.
- Crowd-pleasing: It’s a dessert that everyone loves, making it perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a cozy afternoon treat.
---
This simple vanilla cake recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned baker, it's a foolproof way to make a delicious cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!
