basic vanilla cake mix recipe

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The Best basic vanilla cake mix recipe

I’ve been making this basic vanilla cake mix recipe for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorites. It’s a classic recipe that never fails to impress, whether we’re having a casual Sunday dinner or a special occasion like a birthday party. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make – even my kids can help with the mixing and pouring.

I love that it’s a versatile recipe that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. We’ve enjoyed it as a simple dessert after dinner, or as a sweet treat to pack in lunches for school. It’s also surprisingly healthy, considering how delicious it is.

With only a few simple ingredients and no added preservatives or artificial flavors, I feel good about serving it to my family. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and gatherings. I’ve even been known to whip up a batch just because – no occasion necessary!

The aroma of vanilla and sugar wafting from the oven is like a warm hug on a chilly day. My kids love helping me measure out the ingredients and watching the cake transform from a simple batter into a beautiful, golden-brown masterpiece. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love the smell of freshly baked cake?

It’s like a big ol’ hug in a pan.

4.5 from 1529 votes

A simple and delicious vanilla cake made from scratch. Perfect for beginners and versatile for various toppings and fillings.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup whole milk

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

3 cups powdered sugar

1/4 tsp salt

2 tsp vanilla extract

3-4 tbsp milk

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350°F.

2Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, tapping out any excess flour.

3In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.

4Mix well and set aside.

5In another bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

6Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

7Stir in vanilla extract.

8Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

9Mix just until combined and no dry spots remain.

10Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

11Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

12Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

13Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

14For the frosting, beat softened butter in a large bowl until creamy.

15Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.

16Add salt, vanilla extract, and milk.

17Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed to reach desired consistency.

18Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

19Slice and serve.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl

Electric mixer

9-inch round cake pan

Baking sheet

Oven

📊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: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning. Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Watch Video Of How Basic Vanilla Cake Mix Recipe Works

This basic vanilla cake mix recipe is always a good idea for any occasion; whether we’re celebrating birthdays, holidays, or just need something sweet after dinner – it never fails.

And when you store leftovers properly in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months (thawing as needed), you can enjoy this delicious treat long after the initial celebration is over.

My family loves serving slices as an after-dinner dessert or packing them in lunchboxes for school; we’ve even repurposed leftover cakes into creative breakfast ideas by topping them with fresh fruit and whipped cream.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Vanilla Cake Mix

Q: Can I use self-raising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Sure thing – if you choose self-raising flour,

simplify your recipe by skipping adding baking powder; otherwise,

stick with all-purpose flour as originally intended.

basic vanilla cake mix recipe

The Best basic vanilla cake mix recipe