Vanilla cake

Introduction

Vanilla cake is a timeless classic, loved for its simple yet rich flavor and soft, moist texture. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, an afternoon treat, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this basic vanilla cake recipe is versatile and easy to make from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (320g) all-purpose flour (or half cake flour for extra softness)
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk or buttermilk, at room temperature

Optional Vanilla Buttercream:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 2–4 tablespoons milk or cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

For the Cake:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or two 8-inch round cake pans. Line with parchment paper if desired for easier release.
2. Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on high speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk in three additions, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s). Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes for loaf pans or 25-30 minutes for round pans, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Allow the cake(s) to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Buttercream Frosting:

1. Beat butter on medium speed until creamy (about 2 minutes).
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix on low speed.
3. Add vanilla and milk, adjusting the consistency as needed.
4. Spread evenly over the cooled cake.

Conclusion

This vanilla cake strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. With its soft crumb and rich vanilla flavor, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for any occasion. Dress it up with frosting or enjoy it plain with a cup of tea—either way, it’s a winner!

For more details, visit the full recipe

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