Quick Easy Vanilla Cake
Highlighted under: Quick Dinner Recipes
A simple and delicious vanilla cake that can be whipped up in no time!
This Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to delight. Its light and fluffy texture combined with a rich vanilla flavor makes it a favorite among cake lovers.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Rich vanilla flavor that pairs well with various toppings
- Quick and simple, perfect for beginners
The Perfect Base for Any Occasion
This Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is an incredibly versatile dessert that serves as the perfect base for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something sweet, this cake fits the bill perfectly. Its light and fluffy texture makes it a delightful treat that can stand alone or be dressed up with various toppings.
You can serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream. For a more decadent option, consider slathering it with rich chocolate ganache or creamy buttercream frosting. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize your cake to suit any event or personal taste.
A Beginner-Friendly Recipe
If you’re new to baking, this Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is an excellent recipe to start with. The steps are straightforward and require minimal equipment, making it accessible for even the most novice bakers. With just a few common ingredients and simple techniques, you’ll be able to create a cake that impresses family and friends.
Each step is designed to build your confidence in the kitchen, from creaming the butter and sugar to folding in the dry ingredients. This recipe allows you to practice essential baking skills while enjoying the rewarding experience of creating something delicious from scratch.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once your Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is baked and cooled, proper storage is essential to maintain its freshness. You can store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
When it comes to serving, this cake is best enjoyed at room temperature. If you do refrigerate it, allow it to sit out for a bit before serving to enhance its flavor and texture. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make the Quick Easy Vanilla Cake.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your cake.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together and set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until smooth.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Enjoy your delicious vanilla cake with whipped cream or fresh fruits!
Variations to Try
While this vanilla cake is delightful as is, you can easily add your personal touch with various flavor variations. Consider incorporating lemon zest for a citrusy twist or almond extract for a nutty flavor. If you’re a chocolate lover, add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a delicious chocolate vanilla cake.
You can also experiment with mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. Not only do these additions enhance the flavor, but they also create a unique texture that makes each bite exciting.
Pairing Ideas
This Quick Easy Vanilla Cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a steaming cup of tea complements the flavors beautifully, making it a perfect afternoon snack. For a more festive occasion, consider serving it with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne.
In terms of toppings, fresh berries are always a delightful choice, adding a pop of color and tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake. Alternatively, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can elevate the cake while keeping it simple and elegant.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute cake flour for a softer texture.
→ How do I store leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
→ What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use applesauce or a flaxseed mixture as an egg substitute.
Quick Easy Vanilla Cake
A simple and delicious vanilla cake that can be whipped up in no time!
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Quick Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together and set aside.
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g