If you have ever longed for that perfectly soft, buttery, and utterly delicious dessert that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen, this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a timeless classic that combines simple ingredients to create layers of light, tender cake bursting with sweet vanilla flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet to lift your day, this cake recipe will quickly become a cherished staple you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component plays a vital role: the flour provides structure, the baking powder offers lift, butter tenderizes, sugar sweetens, eggs bind and enrich, and vanilla extract brings that unmistakable aromatic warmth. Even the optional sour cream adds a luxurious, moist finish.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives the cake its soft yet sturdy crumb, essential for a perfect texture.
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture, crucial for that tender crumb.
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while assisting in creating a delicate crumb.
- 4 large eggs (room temperature): Provide structure and richness; room temperature ensures even mixing.
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: The star flavor in this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe, offering a fragrant, comforting aroma.
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature): Keeps the batter smooth and moist for a tender bite.
- Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds extra moisture and a subtle tang for a richer cake.
How to Make Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans and Preheat Oven
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 8-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper. This step guarantees an easy release and perfectly shaped cake layers.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Combining these first ensures an even distribution throughout the cake batter, giving you consistent texture and rise.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This typically takes about 3 to 4 minutes. It creates air pockets that help the cake rise beautifully.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract
Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to avoid breaking the emulsion. Then stir in the pure vanilla extract, the key flavor booster that makes this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe irresistible.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture and milk alternately to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the dry. This careful mixing ensures a smooth batter that is neither too thick nor too runny.
Step 6: Incorporate Sour Cream (Optional)
If you want an extra touch of richness and moisture, gently fold in 1/4 cup of sour cream at this stage. It’s optional but highly recommended for a more decadent cake experience.
Step 7: Bake Your Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to rest in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet stunning presentation, a dusting of powdered sugar or fresh berries makes a delightful garnish. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of berry compote to contrast the sweet vanilla flavor.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a cup of tea or coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. These accompaniments elevate each bite, creating a balanced and delightful dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe with your favorite frosting—classic buttercream, cream cheese, or even a light whipped topping. You can also cut the cake into cupcakes for parties or bake it in a single 9×13-inch pan for an easy sheet cake perfect for potlucks and celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your cake is frosted or cooled, store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the cake moist and delicious without drying out.
Freezing
This Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled and unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warmed, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to maintain the cake’s tender texture and moist crumb.
FAQs
Can I substitute sour cream in this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk to maintain that moisture and slight tanginess. Each alternative slightly changes the texture but still delivers delicious results.
Is it necessary to use room temperature eggs and milk?
Yes, using room temperature eggs and milk helps the ingredients blend more evenly, resulting in a smooth batter without curdling or lumps. This step contributes to the cake’s light and fluffy texture.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
While this recipe is designed for all-purpose flour, you can try a gluten-free baking mix that substitutes cup-for-cup with regular flour. Just be sure to check the mix’s ingredients and adapt baking times as needed.
What frosting flavors go best with this vanilla cake?
Classic buttercream, cream cheese frosting, and chocolate ganache all complement the sweet vanilla layers exceptionally well. You can also experiment with fruit-based frostings like strawberry or lemon for a refreshing twist.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, your cake is done. Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cake.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe, it will become one of your go-to cakes for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, comforting to eat, and endlessly versatile for celebrating life’s sweetest moments. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and bake yourself a slice of happiness today!
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Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Homemade Vanilla Cake is a moist and tender dessert perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Made with simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, this recipe yields a fluffy, flavorful cake that pairs wonderfully with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream. The addition of sour cream is optional but adds extra moisture and richness for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream (for added moisture)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed for a uniform rise.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. This incorporates air, which helps with the cake’s texture.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition to ensure full incorporation and a smooth batter.
- Stir in Vanilla: Add the pure vanilla extract and mix until combined, infusing the batter with rich vanilla flavor.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Alternately add the dry flour mixture and whole milk to the batter, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently after each addition to keep the batter light but well combined.
- Optional Sour Cream: If using, fold in the sour cream carefully to add extra moisture and a subtle tanginess to the cake.
- Divide Batter and Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
Notes
- This cake is delicious with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream.
- For cupcakes, bake for 18–20 minutes instead of 30–35.
- You can bake the batter in a 9×13-inch pan for a single-layer cake; adjust baking time accordingly.
