Vanilla cake is a timeless classic, beloved for its simple yet rich flavor and soft, tender crumb. It serves as a versatile base for a variety of desserts, from layered cakes to cupcakes and even trifles. The key to a perfect vanilla cake lies in using high-quality ingredients and precise techniques to achieve a moist and flavorful result. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delightful homemade treat, this vanilla cake recipe is sure to impress. It’s easy to make and can be dressed up with your favorite frosting, fillings, or decorations.
Ingredients for Perfect Vanilla Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Optional Decorations:
- Sprinkles, fresh fruits, edible flowers, or any preferred cake decorations
How to Make Perfect Vanilla Cake
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cakes after baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour, ensuring even rising of the cake layers.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a tender crumb and incorporating air into the batter, which will help the cake rise.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla Extract
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. This helps to emulsify the mixture and ensures even distribution of the eggs. Mix in the pure vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix each addition just until incorporated, being careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cake to become dense.
6. Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
7. Cool and Frost the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the buttercream frosting.
8. Make the Buttercream Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter on medium-high speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk, then increase the speed to medium-high and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If needed, add more cream or milk to reach your desired consistency.
9. Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of buttercream frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top of the frosting. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream. Decorate with sprinkles, fresh fruits, edible flowers, or any preferred decorations.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake and serve it to your guests, or enjoy a piece yourself with a cup of tea or coffee. This vanilla cake is perfect for any celebration or as a simple, delicious dessert.
About the Main Ingredients
1. All-Purpose Flour:
All-purpose flour provides structure to the cake. It contains a balanced amount of protein, which helps in forming a good crumb while keeping the cake tender. Sifting the flour before measuring ensures that it is light and free of lumps, resulting in a smoother batter.
2. Unsalted Butter:
Butter is a key ingredient in creating the cake’s rich flavor and tender texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe. Creaming the butter with sugar aerates the mixture, helping to leaven the cake and create a light, fluffy texture.
3. Granulated Sugar:
Sugar sweetens the cake and also contributes to its moistness. When creamed with butter, sugar helps to trap air, aiding in the leavening process.
4. Eggs:
Eggs provide structure, moisture, and richness to the cake. They also help to bind the ingredients together. Using room-temperature eggs ensures that they incorporate more easily into the batter.
5. Vanilla Extract:
Vanilla extract adds a warm, sweet aroma and flavor to the cake. It’s essential for enhancing the overall taste and bringing out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
6. Baking Powder:
Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, helping the cake to rise and achieve a light, airy texture. It works by releasing carbon dioxide gas when mixed with liquid and exposed to heat, which helps the batter expand.
7. Whole Milk:
Whole milk adds moisture and richness to the cake. Its fat content helps to create a tender crumb. Using room-temperature milk ensures that it blends smoothly with the other ingredients, preventing curdling.
8. Powdered Sugar:
Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners’ sugar, is used in the buttercream frosting. It dissolves easily and helps to create a smooth, creamy texture.
9. Heavy Cream or Milk:
Heavy cream or milk is used to adjust the consistency of the buttercream frosting. It adds richness and helps to achieve a spreadable consistency. Heavy cream gives the frosting a more luxurious texture, while milk creates a lighter consistency.
This Perfect Vanilla Cake Recipe is a wonderful dessert that can be customized with various fillings, frostings, and decorations. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to delight with its classic flavor and beautiful presentation.
