simple homemade cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
simple homemade cake recipe
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The Best simple homemade cake recipe

I’ve been making this simple homemade cake recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic recipe that’s easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a snack, dessert, or even as a breakfast treat. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites because they get to do the mixing and measuring.

I’ve experimented with different flavor combinations, but the original recipe remains my top choice. The texture is just right – moist but not too wet, and the flavor is sweet but not overpowering.

I’ve served this cake at countless family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a dessert for holiday meals. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!

My mom used to make this recipe for me when I was a kid, and now I carry on the tradition with my own children. It’s amazing how a simple cake can evoke so many memories and emotions.

This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m so grateful to have it as part of our culinary heritage.

Simple Homemade Vanilla Cake

Simple Homemade Vanilla Cake

4.7 from 1083 votes

A moist and delicious vanilla cake perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to follow and requires basic ingredients.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk

For the Vanilla Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk

For the Topping

1/2 cup sliced strawberries
1/4 cup chopped nuts

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
3In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
Set aside.
4In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
5Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
6Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
7Mix just until combined.
8Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
10The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
11While the cake is baking, prepare the vanilla frosting.
12In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
13Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well.
14Add the vanilla extract and milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
15Beat until light and fluffy.
16Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
17Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
18Spread the vanilla frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
19Top with sliced strawberries and chopped nuts.
20Serve and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
8-inch round cake pan
Oven
Spatula
Wire rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. You can also add food coloring to the frosting for a festive touch.

Watch Video Of How Simple Homemade Vanilla Cake Works

This simple homemade cake recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a Tuesday night dinner.

It’s incredibly versatile and can be served in so many ways – as a snack, dessert, or even as a breakfast treat.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or special events when you need to serve a crowd.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Vanilla Cake

Q: What is the secret to making a moist cake?

The secret to making a moist cake lies in using buttermilk instead of regular milk. Buttermilk contains lactic acid, which helps to break down the starches in the flour and creates a tender crumb.

Q: Can I substitute other types of sugar for granulated sugar?

Yes, you can substitute other types of sugar for granulated sugar, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture and flavor of the cake. For example, using brown sugar will give your cake a richer flavor and darker color.

Q: How do I ensure my cake is evenly baked?

To ensure your cake is evenly baked, make sure to rotate it halfway through the baking time. This will help prevent hot spots and promote even cooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can make this recipe in advance by baking the cake layers ahead of time and storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk? Can I use regular milk instead?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using it in place of buttermilk.

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