If you’re looking for a timeless dessert that never fails to delight, this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a beautiful balance of buttery, tender crumb with a sweet vanilla punch that feels both comforting and celebratory. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this cake offers a classic flavor everyone loves, with a texture so soft and moist, it’s like a warm hug in every bite. Plus, it’s straightforward enough to become your go-to recipe, letting you savor the magic of homemade baking anytime you please.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe, you’ll rely on simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each ingredient plays its own role: flour builds structure, butter adds richness, sugar sweetens and tenderizes, eggs provide moisture and lift, and vanilla brings that unmistakable aromatic warmth.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): Provides the base of the cake’s soft, tender crumb.
- Baking powder (2 1/2 tsp): Ensures your cake rises to fluffy, airy perfection.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors beautifully.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1 cup): Adds moisture and richness, making the cake tender and flavorful.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the cake and helps create a delicate crumb texture.
- Large eggs (4): Bind everything together and provide structure and stability.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tbsp): The star that elevates this cake with its warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds moisture and helps produce a soft, luscious crumb.
How to Make Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This prep step ensures your cake layers will release easily after baking and have perfectly smooth edges.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting aerates the mixture and prevents lumps so your cake batter is silky smooth. Set this dry mix aside for later.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, making the cake wonderfully light.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, giving the batter time to absorb each before adding the next. Then stir in the pure vanilla extract for that signature warm vanilla flavor that brings the cake alive.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense cake. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and help keep the crumb tender.
Step 6: Bake Your Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your vanilla cake feel extra special, garnish with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or edible flowers. A drizzle of homemade chocolate ganache or a dollop of whipped cream can also add an elegant touch without overshadowing the cake’s delicate vanilla flavor.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla or berry-flavored ice cream, a spoonful of fruit compote, or even a cup of hot coffee or tea. These accompaniments enhance the cake’s flavors while adding textural contrast that makes each bite more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive look, layer your cake with colorful fruit preserves or fluffy frosting and top with sprinkles or edible glitter. You can also cut it into petite squares for easy serving at gatherings or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for kids. Presentation can turn this classic into a show-stopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. It will stay delicious at room temperature for up to 2 days, making it an easy treat to enjoy later.
Freezing
If you want to save your cake for longer, freeze it! Wrap the cooled cake layers separately in plastic wrap and then foil. Frozen properly, your cake can last for up to 3 months and thaw beautifully when ready to eat.
Reheating
For best results, bring cake slices to room temperature before serving. If you prefer it warm, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This warms the cake without drying it out, making it taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative in this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe?
Absolutely, you can replace whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk in equal amounts. Just remember that the flavor might vary slightly depending on the substitute, but your cake will still be delicious.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of your cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is done. Avoid opening the oven too often while baking to keep the temperature steady.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, you can enjoy this vanilla cake without gluten. Just ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well for the best results.
How can I make sure the cake layers come out perfectly even?
Use a kitchen scale to divide your batter evenly between pans or spoon the batter to equal heights and gently tap the pans on the counter to level the batter before baking. This helps create uniform layers for stacking and decorating.
What frosting pairs best with this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe?
Classic buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar complement this cake’s vanilla flavor beautifully. Choose your frosting based on taste preference and occasion to elevate this versatile cake.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking a Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe from scratch—it fills your kitchen with the happiest scents and your table with smiles. Once you master this one, you’ll have a dependable, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. So go on, give it a try and watch this classic cake become your new favorite baking tradition!
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Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic homemade vanilla cake that’s moist, fluffy, and perfect for any celebration. Made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, this recipe yields a tender cake with a delicate vanilla flavor, baked to perfection in just 50 minutes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside to ensure even distribution in the batter.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Divide batter and smooth: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops for an even bake.
- Bake the cakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cakes are fully cooked.
- Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to maintain a tender crumb.
- Using room temperature ingredients helps the batter mix more evenly and results in a better texture.
- You can substitute whole milk with buttermilk for a richer flavor and moist texture.
- Store the cake layers tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Feel free to frost with your favorite buttercream or cream cheese frosting once the cakes are completely cooled.
