Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe

While chocolate cake may steal the spotlight, there’s something timeless and comforting about a classic vanilla cake. With its delicate crumb, subtle sweetness, and aromatic vanilla flavor, this cake is a blank canvas for endless possibilities. Whether paired with a simple buttercream frosting, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, this vanilla cake is sure to delight your taste buds and evoke nostalgic memories of homemade goodness. Get ready to embrace the simplicity and elegance of a timeless dessert with this classic vanilla cake recipe.

Ingredients:

For the Vanilla Cake:

1. 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 2 cups granulated sugar
3. 1 tablespoon baking powder
4. 1 teaspoon salt
5. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
6. 4 large eggs
7. 1 cup whole milk
8. 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:

1. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2. 4 cups powdered sugar
3. 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
4. 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (as needed for consistency)
5. Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and beat on medium speed until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, beating on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
9. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the vanilla buttercream frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until smooth. Add heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
10. Once the cakes are completely cooled, assemble the cake by placing one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting over the top, then repeat with the remaining layers. Use the remaining frosting to frost the top and sides of the cake.
11. Decorate the cake as desired with additional frosting, sprinkles, or fresh fruit.
12. Slice and serve this classic vanilla cake to eager dessert enthusiasts, and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade goodness with every bite.

Conclusion: With its tender crumb and delicate vanilla flavor, this classic vanilla cake is a timeless dessert that never goes out of style. Whether served at a birthday party, bridal shower, or Sunday brunch, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser for all ages. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of vanilla fill your kitchen as you bake up this delightful treat.