If you’re craving a light, fluffy, and moist cake that tastes just like it came from a bakery, this classic vanilla cake recipe is a must-try. With its simple ingredients and rich aroma, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or even a cozy afternoon treat.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Cake
This recipe delivers everything you want in a perfect cake:
🍰 Moist and tender crumb — melts in your mouth.
🧈 Rich buttery flavor — balanced with a hint of vanilla.
💡 Easy to make — no special equipment needed.
🎉 Versatile base — pairs beautifully with any frosting or filling.
Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this vanilla cake is always a crowd-pleaser.
🥣 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
2 ½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups (350 g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, room temperature
Optional (for extra moisture):
2 tbsp sour cream or yogurt
🧁 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans (or line with parchment paper).
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
Flour
Baking powder
Salt
Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy — about 3–4 minutes.
This step is key for that soft, tender texture!
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Then add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix gently.
Pour in the milk, then add the remaining dry ingredients.
Mix until just combined — don’t overmix or the cake may become dense.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
🍦 Simple Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients:
1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups (375 g) powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
Instructions:
Beat the butter until creamy (about 2 minutes).
Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time.
Add vanilla and cream, then beat until light and fluffy.
Spread or pipe onto the cooled cake.
For extra flair, add fresh fruit, sprinkles, or edible flowers! 🌸
🍰 Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Cake
✅ Room temperature ingredients help the batter blend evenly.
✅ Don’t overmix once flour is added — it keeps the crumb tender.
✅ Level the batter in pans to ensure even layers.
✅ Cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
✅ Use good-quality vanilla extract — it makes all the difference!
🎉 Creative Variations
✨ Lemon Vanilla Cake – Add 1 tbsp lemon zest to the batter for a bright twist.
🍫 Marble Cake – Swirl in a bit of melted chocolate before baking.
🍓 Strawberry Vanilla Cake – Layer with strawberry jam and whipped cream.
🥥 Coconut Vanilla Cake – Substitute milk with coconut milk and add shredded coconut on top.
🧊 Storage
Store at room temperature for up to 2 days (covered).
Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap unfrosted layers in plastic and freeze up to 3 months — thaw overnight before frosting.
💖 Conclusion
This vanilla cake recipe is the ultimate go-to for any occasion — light, moist, and bursting with vanilla flavor. With simple ingredients and foolproof steps, you’ll bake a cake that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery.
So go ahead — preheat that oven and try this vanilla cake recipe today! 🍰✨