The VERY BEST Homemade Vanilla Cake

Name: The VERY BEST Homemade Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

The VERY BEST Homemade Vanilla Cake is a delightful treat that brings joy to every celebration. With its moist texture and rich vanilla flavor, it's sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:14:20.141Z

This cake has been a family favorite for generations, passed down from my grandmother who always made it for special occasions. Each bite is a reminder of joyful memories and sweet celebrations.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously moist and fluffy texture
Rich and aromatic vanilla flavor
Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any celebration

      

The Magic of Vanilla

Vanilla is often considered the queen of flavors, and for good reason. Its warm, comforting aroma and sweet profile create a perfect foundation for any dessert. In this cake, the pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor to new heights, making every bite a delightful experience. By using high-quality vanilla, you ensure that the cake tastes rich and aromatic, allowing it to shine as the star of your celebration.

In addition to its flavor, vanilla is known for its versatility. Whether it's a simple homemade cake or an elaborate pastry, vanilla complements a wide range of ingredients. This homemade vanilla cake is no exception; it pairs beautifully with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream. You can also experiment with different frostings to create a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the light and fluffy texture that makes this vanilla cake so irresistible, it's essential to cream the butter and sugar properly. This step incorporates air into the mixture, which helps the cake rise beautifully during baking. Take your time with this process; aim for a pale and fluffy consistency before adding the eggs.

Another important tip is to ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This includes the butter, eggs, and milk. Room temperature ingredients mix together more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a more uniform cake. If you're in a hurry, you can warm the eggs slightly in warm water or microwave the milk for a few seconds to bring them to room temperature.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your cake is baked and frosted, it can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for a longer period, consider refrigerating it. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The flavors actually improve after a day, allowing the cake to become even more moist and flavorful.

When it comes to serving, this vanilla cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just a casual get-together, it can be garnished with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or edible flowers to add an elegant touch. For a more festive look, you can use colorful sprinkles on the frosting, instantly making it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Enjoy your delicious homemade vanilla cake!

Why Vanilla Cake is a Favorite

Vanilla cake is a classic that transcends generations. Its simple yet rich flavor appeals to both children and adults alike, making it a staple at gatherings. The beauty of this cake lies in its adaptability; you can serve it as is, or dress it up with various toppings and fillings. This versatility makes it a perfect choice for any event, from casual picnics to elegant weddings.

Moreover, the process of baking a vanilla cake can be a wonderful bonding experience. Whether you're baking with family or friends, it provides a great opportunity to create lasting memories in the kitchen. The anticipation of waiting for the cake to bake and the joy of frosting it together adds to the magic of baking.

Healthier Substitutions

If you're looking to make this cake a bit healthier, there are several substitutions you can consider. For instance, you can replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. This slight change will not only increase the nutritional value but also lend a subtle nuttiness to the cake's flavor.

Additionally, you can experiment with reducing the sugar in the recipe. Using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can also add a unique taste while keeping the cake moist. Don't forget to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly to maintain the right batter consistency. These substitutions allow you to enjoy a delicious vanilla cake while making it a bit more wholesome.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but all-purpose flour works perfectly.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce or a flaxseed mixture as an egg substitute in this recipe.