classic vanilla cake recipe

Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best classic vanilla cake recipe

I have been making this classic vanilla cake recipe for years, and it’s a staple in my household. My family loves it, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings and parties. I remember my grandmother used to make it for special occasions, and now I continue her tradition.

The recipe is simple yet elegant, and the flavors are so well-balanced that it’s hard not to love it. The cake is moist, tender, and has just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a perfect recipe for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a Tuesday evening.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s easy to make ahead of time and freeze for later use. This is perfect for busy families like mine who need quick dessert options. The cake also freezes beautifully, so you can make a batch and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw and enjoy! This recipe is also great because it’s relatively healthy compared to other desserts out there. With only 2 cups of sugar (which can be reduced further if you prefer) and no artificial preservatives or additives, you can feel good about serving this cake to your loved ones.

Plus, the ingredients are all relatively inexpensive, making it an affordable option for families on a budget.

4.9 from 1208 votes

This classic vanilla cake recipe is a timeless favorite. It is moist, fluffy, and bursting with vanilla flavor.

🖨️ Print Recipe 📌 Pin Recipe ❤️ Add to Collection

Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time35 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time55 mins

Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

1 cup whole milk

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

3 cups powdered sugar

1/4 tsp salt

1 tbsp pure vanilla extract

3 tbsp milk

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350°F.

2Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
Set aside.

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

4Whisk until well mixed.
Set aside.

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

6Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

7Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

8Stir in vanilla extract.

9Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

10Mix just until combined.

11Pour batter into the prepared cake pan.

12Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

13The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

14Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

15Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

16While the cake is cooling, prepare the vanilla buttercream frosting.

17In a large mixing bowl, beat butter until creamy.

18Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.

19Add salt, vanilla extract, and milk.

20Beat on high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

21Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

22Slice and serve.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl

Electric mixer

8-inch round cake pan

Oven

Wire rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 270mg🌾Total Carbs: 53g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 40g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer flavor, allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. You can also add a pinch of almond extract to the frosting for an extra layer of flavor.

Watch Video Of How Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe Works

This classic vanilla cake recipe is a staple in my household and always a hit at family gatherings and parties. It’s easy to make ahead of time and freeze for later use, making it perfect for busy families like mine who need quick dessert options.

The best part? This recipe is relatively healthy compared to other desserts out there – with only 2 cups of sugar (which can be reduced further if you prefer) and no artificial preservatives or additives.

Plus, the ingredients are all relatively inexpensive making it an affordable option for families on a budget.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Vanilla Cake

What type of flour is best for making this classic vanilla cake?

I prefer to use all-purpose flour for this recipe because it provides a nice balance between strength and tenderness. You can also use cake flour if you want a more delicate crumb, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

Can I substitute the granulated sugar with something else?

Yes, you can substitute the granulated sugar with brown sugar or coconut sugar if you prefer a slightly different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that using these alternatives may affect the overall texture of the cake.

How do I ensure that my cake is evenly baked?

To ensure even baking, make sure to rotate your cake pan halfway through the baking time. You can also check the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center – if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Can I add any mix-ins or flavorings to this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely add mix-ins or flavorings to this recipe! Some popular options include nuts (walnuts or pecans work well), dried fruit (cranberries or cherries), or extracts (almond or vanilla).

What if I don’t have buttermilk? Can I substitute it with something else?

No worries if you don’t have buttermilk on hand! You can substitute it with regular milk or a mixture of milk and white vinegar or lemon juice.

classic vanilla cake recipe

The Best classic vanilla cake recipe