Deliciously Moist and Fluffy: A Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a classic vanilla cake. Its delicate flavor, moist crumb, and versatility make it a timeless favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat, a homemade vanilla cake is sure to satisfy. Here’s a delicious vanilla cake recipe that will leave you with a moist and fluffy masterpiece:
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups whole milk
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or beat by hand with a wooden spoon.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a smooth and well-incorporated batter. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser cake.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
- Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cakes have cooled, you can frost and decorate them as desired. A classic vanilla buttercream frosting is a wonderful choice for enhancing the flavor of the cake.
- To make the vanilla buttercream frosting, cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined and fluffy. If needed, add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake. You can get creative with your frosting techniques or add additional decorations like sprinkles or fresh fruit.
- Slice and serve the cake, savoring each bite of its soft and moist texture and the delicate sweetness of the vanilla.
This classic vanilla cake recipe is a go-to for any baker, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. Its simplicity allows the pure flavors to shine, making it a crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the joy of baking this timeless treat.
