Vanilla Cake Recipe

Introduction

When Ella Chef baked her first vanilla cake, it was in her grandmother’s cozy kitchen on a rainy afternoon. The air filled with the scent of butter and vanilla, and the joy of that moment became a lasting memory. Over the years, Ella perfected this classic recipe, turning it into a family favorite for every occasion. She always says, “A good vanilla cake doesn’t need to impress—it simply needs to comfort.” With its tender crumb and rich buttery flavor, this timeless dessert reminds us that simplicity often brings the sweetest satisfaction.

Classic Vanilla Cake

A moist, fluffy vanilla cake topped with creamy frosting and fresh berries—perfect for birthdays or celebrations.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Cooling Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 470

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Cake Batter

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs room temperature
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk room temperature

Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar sifted
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• fresh berries for garnish

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cake pans

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until smooth.
6. Divide the batter between pans, smooth tops, and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
8. For frosting, beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually, followed by cream and vanilla. Beat until fluffy.
9. Frost the cooled cakes, stack layers, and garnish with fresh berries.

Nutrition

Calories: 470kcalCarbohydrates: 61gProtein: 6gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 45gVitamin A: 820IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest. This cake also pairs beautifully with whipped cream.

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How to Make Vanilla Cake

To prepare this classic vanilla cake, begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing two 8-inch round cake pans with butter and flour. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to create a balanced base. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy—this step is crucial for a soft and airy texture.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with its signature aroma. Reduce the mixer speed to low and alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just

Conclusion

The vanilla cake stands as a timeless dessert loved for its simplicity and elegance. As Ella Chef often says, “The secret to a perfect cake isn’t in fancy ingredients—it’s in the care you bake it with.” This classic recipe captures that very spirit: soft layers, a creamy frosting, and the comforting aroma of vanilla. Whether it’s served plain with tea or beautifully decorated for a celebration, this cake never fails to delight. Each slice brings warmth, sweetness, and a reminder that sometimes, the most cherished moments are made from the simplest things.