The Best Vanilla Cake

Name: The Best Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup milk (room temperature); 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt

50 min 12 slices Easy

All Recipes

The Best Vanilla Cake

This moist and fluffy vanilla cake is perfect for any occasion, easy to make and delightfully delicious.

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Total

50 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Vanilla cake is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. Whether it's for a birthday, anniversary, or just a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress. With its soft, moist crumb and rich vanilla flavour, it's the perfect canvas for any frosting or decoration you choose. Making a vanilla cake from scratch might seem daunting, but with this easy recipe, you'll have a delicious, homemade cake ready in no time. Using simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, you can create a delightful dessert that's both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients

Servings

Cake Batter

Instructions

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.

Pro tip: Ensure even baking by placing pans in the centre of the oven.

Mix dry ingredients

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

Pro tip: Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a smoother batter.

Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Pro tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Add eggs and vanilla

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

Pro tip: Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Combine with dry ingredients

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

Pro tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

Bake the cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: Rotate pans halfway through baking for even colour.

Cool the cake

Allow cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro tip: Cooling completely prevents the frosting from melting.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.</li><li>Don't overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.</li><li>Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavour.</li><li>Test cake doneness with a toothpick: it should come out clean.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve this vanilla cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a truly decadent experience. It's also delicious with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. To make ahead, bake the cake layers and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Frost just before serving for the freshest taste.