Vanilla Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! This Vanilla Cake is a classic recipe that never goes out of style. It’s light, fluffy, and bursting with sweet vanilla flavor. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a busy weeknight craving, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this Vanilla Cake so special? It’s not just the taste; it’s the memories that come with baking it. I love how easy it is to whip up and how it fills my home with warmth and sweetness. Plus, once you master this recipe, you can customize it in so many ways!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll have a delicious cake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this classic Vanilla Cake—perfect for dessert lovers of all ages!
• Versatile: Dress it up with your favorite frosting or enjoy it plain; either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake this in advance for events and simply decorate when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of butter and vanilla creates an irresistible flavor that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this fabulous Vanilla Cake! You likely have most of these items in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups cake flour (280 g)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 egg whites
• 2 sticks of butter (226 g) – room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups sugar (280 g)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 cup milk (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (125 g) – room temperature

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup butter (227 g) – room temperature
• 1/2 cup shortening (Crisco) (100 g)
• 6 cups sifted powdered sugar (750 g)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla

Variations

One of the best things about this Vanilla Cake is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and try out these fun variations:

• Add Some Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Mix in Some Fun: Fold in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Go Fruity: Layer fresh fruit between your cake layers or on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Frost with Flair: Experiment with different frostings like cream cheese or whipped topping for exciting new tastes.

How to Make Vanilla Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly. While that’s warming up, butter and flour three 6-inch cake tins and line them with parchment paper. This will help your cakes come out perfectly without sticking!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine all your dry ingredients: cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisk them together well and set aside. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure they’re evenly distributed in your batter.

Step 3: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Set this aside too! This creamy mixture adds moisture to your cake while enhancing its vanilla flavor.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed for about three minutes until smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl; we want every bit of that buttery goodness incorporated!

Step 5: Add Egg Whites

Whisk the egg whites in a separate bowl until they’re slightly frothy. Slowly drizzle them into your butter-sugar mixture while keeping it on low speed. Once fully incorporated, increase the speed to high for about one to two minutes until combined. It may look curdled at first but don’t worry—it will come together nicely!

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients**

With your mixer on low speed, add half of your dry ingredients first. Mix just until barely incorporated before adding half of your milk mixture. Repeat this process with the remaining dry ingredients followed by the rest of the milk mixture. Turn off the mixer finally and gently fold everything together with a rubber spatula so you don’t overmix—it should be nice and smooth!

Step 7: Bake Your Cakes

Pour equal amounts of batter into each prepared pan—about one-third full is perfect! Bake them in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

Step 8: Cool Time

Allow your cakes to cool in their pans for about 15-20 minutes before gently removing them from the pans onto wire racks. Let them cool completely before frosting—this will prevent melting!

And there you have it—a lovely Vanilla Cake that’s sure to impress! Enjoy each slice knowing you’ve created something wonderful from scratch!

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Cake

Baking a perfect vanilla cake is easier than you think! With these pro tips, you’ll create a delightful treat that everyone will love.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps to create a smoother batter and better emulsification, which leads to a lighter, fluffier cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, making your cake dense instead of light and airy. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Check your oven temperature: Always use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the right temperature. An incorrect oven temperature can lead to uneven baking or a dry cake.
• Cool cakes properly: Allowing your cakes to cool in the pans for about 15-20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack helps maintain moisture and prevents them from breaking apart.
• Use high-quality vanilla: The flavor of your vanilla is crucial. Opt for pure vanilla extract instead of imitation for a richer taste that truly enhances your cake.

How to Serve Vanilla Cake

Serving your vanilla cake can be as creative as you wish! Whether it’s for a birthday party, a cozy family dinner, or just because, here are some delightful ways to present it.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries can add a burst of color and freshness that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, top with coconut cream whipped until fluffy. It adds a lightness and subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla.
• Chocolate shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top gives your cake an elegant touch and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside your slice creates a classic dessert experience that’s hard to resist.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cake and offers a healthy contrast.
• Coffee or tea: Serving your cake with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea provides a comforting pairing that’s perfect for afternoon gatherings.
• Chocolate sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over individual slices adds indulgence and richness, making every bite even more enjoyable.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delicious homemade vanilla cake! Enjoy every moment in the kitchen and happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vanilla Cake recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make the layers ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a fresh cake whenever you want without the hassle of last-minute baking.

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap each layer in plastic wrap once cooled completely to keep it moist.
• Store the wrapped layers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Once cooled, wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bags with the date; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, simply transfer the cakes to the fridge overnight before decorating or serving.

Reheating

• If you’ve stored your cake in the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
• You can warm slices gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if desired, but avoid overheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Vanilla Cake!

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Vanilla Cake?

Yes! You can use gluten-free flour instead of regular cake flour to make this Vanilla Cake gluten-free. Just ensure that all other ingredients are suitable.

How long does Vanilla Cake stay fresh?

When stored properly, Vanilla Cake stays fresh at room temperature for about 3 days. For longer freshness, consider refrigerating or freezing as mentioned above.

What makes this Vanilla Cake so special?

This Vanilla Cake is special because it combines simple ingredients with rich flavors, creating a moist and tender texture that’s perfect for any occasion!

Can I make a larger version of this Vanilla Cake?

Absolutely! You can double or triple the recipe to create larger layers or more servings. Just adjust your baking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Vanilla Cake as much as I do! It’s delightful for celebrations or simple get-togethers. The aroma of vanilla wafting through your kitchen will surely bring smiles all around. Enjoy every slice, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!