The Best Classic Vanilla Cake

Name: The Best Classic Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 1 cake
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

The Best Classic Vanilla Cake is a timeless recipe that delivers a light, fluffy texture and a rich vanilla flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:28:20.698Z

This classic vanilla cake recipe has been passed down through generations. Its light and moist texture, combined with a delightful vanilla flavor, makes it a favorite for birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor that elevates any dessert table
Light and fluffy texture that's perfect for any occasion
Versatile base for various frostings and fillings

      

A Classic for Every Occasion

The Best Classic Vanilla Cake is a versatile dessert that fits seamlessly into any celebration—be it a birthday, wedding, or holiday gathering. Its delightful flavor and appealing appearance make it a favorite among both children and adults. Whether you serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or adorned with fresh fruit, this cake is sure to impress your guests.

This cake serves as an excellent canvas for creativity. You can easily dress it up with various frostings, fillings, and toppings to suit your event. From rich chocolate ganache to light fruit creams, the possibilities are endless. No matter how you choose to customize it, the vanilla cake’s classic flavor will always shine through.

Tips for the Perfect Cake

To achieve the best results with your vanilla cake, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision or the spoon-and-level method for dry ingredients to prevent a dense texture. Room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and butter, will blend more seamlessly, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cake.

Another crucial tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake due to gluten development. Remember, a little care in the mixing process goes a long way in achieving that perfect airy texture.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your vanilla cake is baked and frosted, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it for up to a week. For extended storage, you can freeze the unfrosted layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months.

When it comes to serving, consider pairing your classic vanilla cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. For a refreshing twist, fresh berries or a fruit compote make excellent accompaniments, enhancing the overall flavor profile while adding a burst of color.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious vanilla cake:

Ingredients for the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
3 large eggs

Ingredients for the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake the perfect vanilla cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined. Add vanilla extract and enough heavy cream to achieve a spreadable consistency.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade vanilla cake!

Variations to Try

While this recipe showcases the classic vanilla flavor, you can easily experiment with it by incorporating different extracts or flavorings. Almond extract can add a delightful nuttiness, while citrus zest can provide a refreshing zing. These small changes can create a unique twist on the traditional cake without losing its essence.

For chocolate lovers, you can turn this vanilla cake into a chocolate version by substituting a portion of the flour with cocoa powder. This simple alteration can yield a rich, delectable cake that still maintains that light, fluffy texture you crave.

Pairing Beverage Suggestions

To enhance the enjoyment of your classic vanilla cake, consider what beverages to serve alongside it. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich espresso pairs beautifully with the cake's sweet, creamy flavors. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness, creating a harmonious dessert experience.

For those who prefer a non-caffeinated option, a glass of cold milk or a light herbal tea can complement the cake wonderfully. The simplicity of these beverages allows the cake to be the star of the show, letting its flavors shine through without distraction.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, using cake flour will give the cake a lighter texture.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture as an egg substitute for a vegan option.