Simple Classic Vanilla Cake

January 29, 2025

Who’s ready to bake up pure vanilla magic? This simple classic vanilla cake is the ultimate go-to recipe—moist, fluffy, and bursting with that sweet, buttery flavor we all adore. Whether you're celebrating or just craving a slice, this easy cake is guaranteed to impress!

4.0 out of 5 (1 rating)

Oh, the humble vanilla cake! It’s the culinary equivalent of your favorite comfy sweater—simple, timeless, and bursting with charm. When I think about vanilla cake, I picture celebrations big and small, from birthdays decked out with candles to quiet afternoons with a steaming cup of tea and a slice just for you. What makes this gem so special is its unassuming elegance—it doesn’t need layers of fancy frosting or wild decorations to steal the show. Nope, this is a no-frills, genuinely delightful cake that brings pure, buttery warmth to every bite. Let’s dive in and create some vanilla magic!

What sets this simple classic vanilla cake apart from the rest, you ask? Oh, where do I even start? It’s all in the balance of ingredients and the way they work together to create that moist, fluffy texture. Real vanilla extract (none of that artificial stuff here, please!) is the star player, delivering that warm, fragrant aroma we all know and love. Don’t skimp on the butter either—it’s what gives this cake its signature richness. Oh, and let’s not forget about buttermilk, the secret ingredient that adds a subtle tang and makes the cake oh-so-tender. Trust me, these simple yet quality ingredients are what elevate this vanilla cake from basic to absolutely heavenly.

A few pro tips before you don your apron and get baking: First, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. I know it sounds like a tiny detail, but it’ll help everything mix together seamlessly, giving you that smooth, lump-free batter. Secondly, when incorporating your flour, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and nobody wants that. Lastly, if you want to up the wow factor, consider customizing—mix in a handful of chocolate chips, a swirl of fruit puree, or even some crushed nuts for a delightful twist. This cake is your canvas, and you’re the artist, my baking friend.

So, why not whip up this simple classic vanilla cake and spread the joy? It’s perfect for casual get-togethers, family dinners, or even as a “just because” treat. Serve it plain for understated elegance, top it with a dollop of whipped cream, or slather on some frosting if you’re feeling indulgent. Or try adding fresh berries on the side—talk about a match made in dessert heaven! Whichever way you choose, this cake is guaranteed to become a go-to recipe you’ll treasure. Now, go preheat that oven and make some magic happen!

Keywords: simple vanilla cake recipe, best homemade vanilla cake, easy moist vanilla cake, classic butter vanilla cake, homemade cake with buttermilk, beginner-friendly baking recipes, old-fashioned vanilla cake

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

30 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
•2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
•1/2 teaspoon salt
•3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
•1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
•4 large eggs
•1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
•1 cup whole milk

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
2
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer.
4
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition.
5
Mix in the vanilla extract.
6
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
7
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
8
Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9
Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Information

Calories

310 calories per serving

Protein

Carbs

42g

Fat

14g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative?

A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in a 1:1 ratio. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for structure. However, the texture might be slightly different from the original recipe.

Q: What can I use instead of whole milk?

A: You can substitute whole milk with 2% milk, almond milk, or oat milk. For a richer flavor, you can also use buttermilk, which will add a slight tang to the cake. If using buttermilk, reduce the baking powder to 2 teaspoons and add 1/4 teaspoon baking soda.

Q: Why is my cake dense instead of light and fluffy?

A: A dense cake is often caused by overmixing the batter, which develops too much gluten, or by not creaming the butter and sugar properly. Make sure to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, and mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined.

Q: How can I store the cake to keep it fresh?

A: Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake layers for up to 2 months by wrapping them in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.

Q: Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes?

A: Yes, this recipe can be used to make approximately 24 standard-sized cupcakes. Adjust the baking time to 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

Q: How can I enhance the flavor of the vanilla cake?

A: You can enhance the flavor by adding the seeds of one vanilla bean along with the vanilla extract. Alternatively, you can replace the vanilla extract with vanilla bean paste for a more intense vanilla flavor.

Q: What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

A: You can add 1 teaspoon of almond extract for a subtle almond flavor or fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips, fresh berries, or chopped nuts for added texture. Another option is to swirl in 1/4 cup of jam or Nutella into the batter before baking for a marbled effect.

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