Vanilla Cake Recipe: The Ultimate Classic Dessert Made Easy
Few desserts can match the timeless charm of a freshly baked vanilla cake — soft, fluffy, and filled with that warm, buttery aroma that feels like home. Whether it’s for a birthday, celebration, or simply to satisfy your sweet craving, this vanilla cake recipe is a true classic that never goes out of style.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best vanilla cake from scratch, with step-by-step instructions, baking tips, and ideas for frostings and variations. By the end, you’ll be able to bake a bakery-quality cake right in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Cake Recipe
This vanilla cake recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. Here’s why bakers of all levels love it:
- Soft and Moist Texture – Light, airy, and never dry.
- Perfect Vanilla Flavor – Made with pure vanilla extract for that rich, aromatic sweetness.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
- Versatile Base – You can layer it, frost it, or turn it into cupcakes easily.
If you’re tired of store-bought cake mixes and want something truly homemade, this recipe is for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Vanilla Cake Recipe
Before we get into the method, gather all the ingredients for this vanilla cake recipe. Everything here is pantry-friendly and easy to find.
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- ½ cup (120ml) sour cream or buttermilk (for extra moisture)
For the Vanilla Frosting:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- A pinch of salt
How to Make Vanilla Cake (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow these simple steps to make the most delicious homemade vanilla cake ever.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. This ensures your cake layers release cleanly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Set aside. This will help the leavening agents distribute evenly throughout the batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar together for about 3–4 minutes, until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy. This step is key — it adds air, giving your cake that perfect, soft crumb.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and slightly glossy.
Step 5: Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients
Reduce your mixer speed to low. Alternate adding your dry ingredients and milk mixture:
- Add ⅓ of the dry ingredients.
- Add half of the milk and sour cream mixture.
- Repeat until everything is combined.
Do not overmix! Stir until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Tap each pan lightly on the counter to release air bubbles.
Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake tops should be lightly golden.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then remove them from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Making the Perfect Vanilla Frosting
A vanilla cake deserves a smooth and creamy frosting that enhances — not overpowers — its delicate flavor.
Step 1: Beat the Butter
Using an electric mixer, beat softened butter for about 3 minutes until creamy and light.
Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar
Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Cream
Add vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and 2–3 tablespoons of cream or milk. Beat on medium-high for another 2 minutes until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
Step 4: Frost the Cake
Place one cake layer on a plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting over it, then place the second cake layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting using a spatula for a smooth finish.
Tips for the Best Vanilla Cake Recipe
Even though this recipe is easy, a few tips can help you get that perfect, bakery-style finish:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures everything mixes evenly for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep your cake tender.
- Weigh Your Ingredients – For accuracy, especially with flour, use a kitchen scale.
- Don’t Open the Oven Early – This can cause your cake to collapse. Wait until at least 25 minutes have passed.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting – Warm cake will melt your frosting.
Frosting Variations
While vanilla buttercream is a classic, you can easily switch things up:
- Chocolate Frosting – Add cocoa powder for a rich twist.
- Strawberry Frosting – Mix in strawberry puree for fruity flavor.
- Cream Cheese Frosting – Perfect for a tangy-sweet combo.
- Whipped Cream Frosting – Light and airy, ideal for summer cakes.
Vanilla Cake Variations You’ll Love
Once you master this vanilla cake recipe, you can get creative!
Here are some fun ideas:
- Funfetti Vanilla Cake – Add colorful sprinkles to the batter for a party-perfect cake.
- Lemon Vanilla Cake – Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrusy hint.
- Vanilla Cupcakes – Use the same batter, and bake for 18–20 minutes in cupcake liners.
- Layered Celebration Cake – Add fruit jam between layers for extra flavor.
How to Store Vanilla Cake
If you’re not eating it all right away (though it’s hard not to!), here’s how to store it properly:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Serving Ideas
This classic vanilla cake pairs perfectly with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries and whipped cream
- A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce
- A hot cup of coffee or tea
You can also dress it up with edible flowers, chocolate curls, or fresh fruit slices for a beautiful presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute half or all of the butter with vegetable oil for a moister cake. However, butter gives a richer flavor.
2. Why did my vanilla cake sink in the middle?
This can happen if you overmix, open the oven door too early, or if your baking powder is expired. Always use fresh leavening agents.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake layers a day ahead, wrap them tightly, and frost them the next day.
4. What’s the best vanilla extract to use?
Use pure vanilla extract — not imitation — for the richest flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
(Based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Sugar: 40g
- Protein: 5g
Final Thoughts
This vanilla cake recipe is more than just a dessert — it’s a nostalgic, heartwarming treat that brings people together. Its soft crumb, buttery flavor, and smooth vanilla frosting make it a timeless favorite for birthdays, weddings, and every occasion in between.
Once you bake this from scratch, you’ll never go back to boxed cake mixes again. So preheat your oven, grab your mixing bowl, and get ready to bake the most delightful homemade vanilla cake you’ve ever tasted.
