Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a classic vanilla cake recipe—soft, buttery, and bursting with rich vanilla flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just craving something sweet, this homemade vanilla cake is the perfect go-to dessert. Unlike store-bought cakes, this recipe delivers a moist and tender crumb with a delightful homemade taste.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn step-by-step instructions, expert baking tips, ingredient substitutions, and creative decorating ideas. Plus, we’ve included a FAQ section to address common concerns and troubleshooting tips.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Vanilla Cake Recipe
To ensure the perfect balance of flavor and texture, use high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cake Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups (310g) |
| Baking powder | 2 ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (226g) |
| Sugar | 2 cups (400g) |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tbsp |
| Whole milk | 1 cup (240ml) |
Buttercream Frosting Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (226g) |
| Powdered sugar | 4 cups (480g) |
| Heavy cream/milk | 2 tbsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tbsp |
| Food coloring (optional) | As needed |
How to Make Vanilla Cake Recipe from Scratch
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Set your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- Beat the butter and sugar using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture and milk, starting and ending with flour.
- Be careful not to overmix to maintain a soft texture.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
How to Make Vanilla cake recipe Buttercream Frosting
Step 1: Beat the Butter
- Using a mixer, whip butter for about 3 minutes until creamy.
Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar Gradually
- Add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients
- Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream to achieve a fluffy texture.
Step 4: Add Color (Optional)
- Mix in food coloring for a decorative touch.
Cake Assembly & Decorating Ideas
How to Frost Your Cake
- Place the first cake layer on a stand.
- Spread a generous layer of buttercream.
- Add the second layer and frost the entire cake.
- Smooth out using a spatula or piping bag.
Creative Decorating Ideas
- Ombre Buttercream – Blend different shades for a gradient effect.
- Drip Cake – Drizzle chocolate or caramel for an elegant finish.
- Fresh Flowers – Decorate with edible flowers.
- Sprinkles & Pearls – Add extra texture and color.
Expert Baking Tips & Troubleshooting
Common Mistakes to Avoid
✅ Overmixing: Leads to a dense cake.
✅ Using Cold Ingredients: Always use room-temperature eggs, butter, and milk.
✅ Opening the Oven Too Soon: Can cause the cake to sink.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! Substitute 2 ½ cups of cake flour for a lighter texture.
2. How do I make this cake eggless?
Use ½ cup unsweetened applesauce or ¼ cup Greek yogurt per egg.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake 1 day in advance and store it wrapped in plastic.
4. What’s the best way to make a moist cake?
- Avoid overbaking.
- Use whole milk for richness.
- Add a bit of sour cream or yogurt to enhance moisture.
5. Can I use a different frosting?
Yes! Try cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or whipped cream.
Conclusion
This homemade vanilla cake recipe is soft, buttery, and bursting with rich vanilla flavor. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or an everyday treat, it’s a classic that never disappoints. Follow our simple steps, get creative with decorations, and enjoy a delicious homemade cake that’s better than any bakery!
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turns out! 🎂✨
