traditional vanilla cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best traditional vanilla cake recipe

I’ve been making traditional vanilla cake for years, and it’s still one of my go-to recipes for any occasion. My family loves it, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, and the end result is a moist, fluffy cake that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a Tuesday night dessert.

I remember my grandmother teaching me how to make this cake when I was a kid. She would say that the key to a good cake is to use room temperature ingredients and not overmix the batter. I’ve followed her advice all these years, and it’s paid off in spades.

The cake has a subtle sweetness and a delicate crumb that’s just irresistible. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is always a hit with them. They love being able to help with the measuring, mixing, and of course, the tasting.

It’s become a family tradition that I cherish deeply. In fact, I’ve even started making mini cakes for special occasions like baby showers and graduations. It’s just as delicious in smaller form and makes for adorable presentation.

And the best part? It’s a relatively healthy option compared to some other desserts out there. With just a few ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and vanilla extract, you can’t go wrong.

Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids involved in cooking and learning about where food comes from.

Traditional Vanilla Cake

4.5 from 1295 votes

A classic vanilla cake recipe that is moist, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. This cake is easy to make and features a light vanilla flavor.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3-4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
3-4 tbsp milk

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
Set aside.
3In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4Whisk until well mixed.
Set aside.
5In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
6Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
7Stir in the 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.
10Be careful not to overmix.
11Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
12Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
13Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack.
14While the cake is cooling, prepare the vanilla buttercream frosting.
15In a large bowl, beat the butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
16Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well.
17Add the salt, vanilla extract, and milk.
18Beat on high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
19If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time.
20If it is too thin, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time.
21Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
22Slice and serve.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking pan
Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Spatula
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 400mg🌾Total Carbs: 56g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 40g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer flavor, use pure vanilla extract instead of imitation vanilla. To make the cake even more decadent, add a layer of your favorite fruit filling between the cake layers before frosting.

I always recommend this cake to anyone who appreciates the simple pleasures of home baking. The traditional vanilla cake is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. Its versatility and simplicity make it a perfect choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant celebrations.

It is a recipe that brings people together and creates lasting memories. This cake is always a good idea for any occasion and works well for family gatherings. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of toppings and fillings.

The cake’s delicate flavor and moist texture make it a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this traditional vanilla cake recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. It is a recipe that will be passed down through generations, bringing joy and warmth to all who enjoy it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Vanilla Cake

Q: What is the key ingredient in traditional vanilla cake?

A: The key ingredient in traditional vanilla cake is high-quality vanilla extract.

Q: Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?

A: Yes, you can use almond milk instead of regular milk if you prefer dairy-free options.

Q: How do I ensure my cake turns out moist?

A: To ensure your cake turns out moist, make sure to use room temperature ingredients and don’t overmix the batter.

Q: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

A: Yes, you can add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter if you prefer added texture or flavor.

Q: How long does it take to bake a traditional vanilla cake?

A: It typically takes around 25-30 minutes to bake a traditional vanilla cake depending on your oven.

Similar Posts