Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe

Feather-light layers, a dreamy crumb, and that pure, nostalgic aroma—this Classic Vanilla Cake is everything you want in a timeless treat. If you’ve been searching for that “just right” vanilla cake, with rich buttery flavor and the perfect tender bite, this recipe is about to win your heart (and your tastebuds)!

Why You Should Make This Recipe

• True Classic Flavor: This Classic Vanilla Cake brings warmth and coziness to any occasion with its deeply aromatic vanilla and rich, buttery crumb.
• Incredibly Versatile: Dress it up for birthdays, serve it simply for afternoon tea, or top it any way you like—the possibilities are endless.
• Foolproof & Reliable: With just a few pantry staples and easy-to-follow steps, confident results are practically guaranteed, even if you’re a cake novice.
• Perfect for Celebrations: Whether stacked tall or enjoyed as a single layer, this cake makes every moment a little more special.

Ingredients & Substitutions

It’s hard to believe that something so delicious comes together with just a handful of staple ingredients! Each element in this Classic Vanilla Cake has a role to play—bringing out a soft texture, irresistible fragrance, and that signature golden hue.

• Butter (unsalted, room temperature): Adds rich flavor and a tender crumb; unsalted is best so you can control the salt level.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist for days and creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Not only sweetens the cake, but helps it stay light and fluffy by trapping air when creamed.
• Eggs: Bind the batter and add structure; always use room temperature eggs for best results.
• Vanilla Extract: The star of the show—a generous amount gives the cake gorgeous flavor and aroma.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cake layers; measure it carefully for an even, tender crumb.
• Baking Powder: Gives the cake its light, airy rise.
• Salt: A small but mighty ingredient that sharpens up all the flavors.
• Buttermilk (room temperature): Makes the cake super moist and tender, plus gives it that subtle tang.

How to Make Classic Vanilla Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Oven

Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven to 325°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans, then line the bases with parchment—this little trick guarantees the cakes will release easily when they’re done baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Oil

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer (paddle attachment) to beat the butter and oil together for 1–2 minutes. You’ll see the mixture become pale and unified—this creates the foundation for that soft, luxurious crumb.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually add the sugar, mixing on medium speed; once it’s all in, increase to medium-high and beat for about 3 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and pale. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each—this helps keep the batter cohesive and makes sure everything is perfectly incorporated. Don’t rush this part!

Step 4: Mix in Vanilla

Now for the best part—pour in the vanilla extract and blend until just combined. The scent at this stage is truly dreamy and will set the tone for your cake.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This keeps the leavening even, so your layers bake up nice and level.

Step 6: Alternate Wet and Dry

With your mixer on low, alternate adding the buttermilk and flour mixture in batches—start with half the buttermilk, then half the flour, and repeat. Mix just enough to bring everything together; a few little lumps are okay, and remember not to overmix!

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth out the tops. Bake for about 30 minutes, until the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out with just a few crumbs. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 15 minutes, then gently invert onto a wire rack to finish cooling completely.

Step 8: Frost and Enjoy

Once your cakes are cool, it’s time to frost! Choose your favorite icing—chocolate buttercream, classic vanilla, or a tangy cream cheese frosting all work wonders. Or, keep things simple with a dusting of powdered sugar and a pile of fresh berries.

How to Serve Classic Vanilla Cake

Garnishes

The beauty of Classic Vanilla Cake is that it plays so well with anything—from a cloud of whipped cream and juicy berries, to a simple showering of powdered sugar. Edible flowers, chocolate curls, or a swirl of jam between the layers make it extra enchanting for special occasions.

Side Dishes

This cake’s gently sweet flavor pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salads, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a steaming mug of coffee or tea. If you’re going for a full dessert spread, add a tangy lemon curd or a pot of homemade berry compote on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking your Classic Vanilla Cake as a naked layer cake with pops of fruit between the layers, or use cookie cutters to create darling mini-cakes for individual servings. For parties, slice into squares and serve as “cake bites” arranged on a platter—always a hit at showers and birthdays!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Classic Vanilla Cake delightfully moist, store any leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to five days—just let chilled cake come to room temp before serving for best flavor.

Freezing

If you’d like to make the cake ahead, wrap unfrosted layers tightly in plastic and foil before popping them in the freezer. They’ll taste freshly baked for up to three months. Thaw the layers overnight in the fridge before decorating or serving.

Reheating

To revive slices that feel a bit chilly or stale, simply microwave individual pieces for 10–15 seconds; they’ll emerge soft, fragrant, and almost as if they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Trust me, there is nothing quite like sharing a slice of Classic Vanilla Cake you made from scratch—each bite feels like a little celebration! If you’re ready to fall in love with a forever favorite, give this recipe a whirl and let your kitchen fill with the magic of vanilla. Happy baking!

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