There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked vanilla cake filling your kitchen. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this simple vanilla cake recipe is your go-to for a moist, fluffy, and buttery delight.
Why settle for store-bought when you can whip up a homemade vanilla cake that’s incredibly soft, light, and foolproof? With just a handful of pantry staples and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a classic vanilla sponge that’s perfect on its own or dressed up with your favorite toppings.
Ready to bake the best vanilla cake ever? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Vanilla Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the cake soft and tender.
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise making it light and fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor depth and counterbalances sweetness.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened – Adds richness and a buttery taste. Room temperature butter ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar – Creates a perfectly sweet cake with a delicate crumb.
- 4 large eggs – Provide moisture and structure making the cake soft yet sturdy.
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract – The key ingredient for deep aromatic vanilla flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk – Ensures a moist texture while keeping the cake light. Use at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Add Vanilla Extract
- Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk
- Scrape the Bowl and Adjust Consistency
Key Benefits of This Simple Vanilla Cake
Baking a homemade vanilla cake isn’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth—it’s about creating something truly special with minimal effort. Here’s why this easy vanilla cake recipe is a must-try:
Foolproof and Beginner-Friendly – Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer, this recipe ensures a light, fluffy, and moist vanilla cake every time.
Simple Ingredients, Incredible Flavor – Made with butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and vanilla extract, this cake proves that the best desserts don’t need fancy ingredients.
Versatile and Customizable – Enjoy it plain, pair it with a dusting of powdered sugar, or frost it with buttercream for an elegant touch. It also works beautifully as a layered cake for special occasions.
Perfect Texture and Balance – This cake is soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet, making it ideal for everything from afternoon tea to birthdays.
No Special Equipment Required – All you need are basic kitchen tools like a mixing bowl, whisk, and an oven to create a deliciously soft vanilla sponge from scratch.
If you’re looking for a no-fail vanilla cake recipe that delivers every time, this one is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This simple vanilla cake is more than just a basic dessert—it’s a timeless classic that delivers on both flavor and texture. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your baking routine:
- Effortless to Make – No complicated steps or fancy techniques. Just mix, pour, and bake.
- Unbelievably Soft and Moist – Thanks to the right balance of butter, eggs, and milk, this cake bakes up light, fluffy, and tender every time.
- Rich Vanilla Flavor – Using pure vanilla extract enhances the cake’s natural sweetness and aroma, giving it a warm, comforting taste.
- One Recipe, Endless Possibilities – Keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar, frost it with buttercream, or turn it into a layered celebration cake.
- Great for Any Occasion – Whether you need a last-minute dessert or a homemade treat for a birthday, this easy vanilla cake recipe always impresses.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – Made with staple pantry ingredients, so you can whip it up anytime without a special grocery run.
If you love a no-fail, homemade vanilla cake that’s as delicious as it is easy to make, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients
This simple vanilla cake comes together with just a few pantry staples, creating a dessert that’s both rich in flavor and beautifully soft in texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the cake soft and tender.
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise, making it light and fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor depth and counterbalances sweetness.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and a buttery taste. Room temperature butter ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar – Creates a perfectly sweet cake with a delicate crumb.
- 4 large eggs – Provide moisture and structure, making the cake soft yet sturdy.
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract – The key ingredient for deep, aromatic vanilla flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk – Ensures a moist texture while keeping the cake light. Use at room temperature for the best results.
Optional Additions
- ½ teaspoon almond extract – Adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla.
- Zest of one lemon or orange – Brightens the flavor for a fresh twist.
These simple yet essential ingredients work together to create a moist, fluffy, and flavorful vanilla cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Now, let’s get baking!
Here’s How to Make Vanilla Cake Recipe
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the easy steps to create your perfect vanilla cake. Follow these instructions closely, and you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make a moist, fluffy cake with a rich, vanilla flavor.
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cake bakes evenly. While the oven is heating up, prepare your cake pans by greasing them with butter or oil and lightly flouring them.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
Whisking them together ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed, helping the cake rise properly.
3. Incorporate the Vanilla Extract
Stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract to infuse the batter with that classic, sweet aroma. Using a high-quality vanilla extract makes all the difference in achieving a rich, well-rounded flavor.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. The eggs help with the structure of the cake, and the vanilla adds that wonderful flavor.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of whole milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
6. Scrape the Sides and Check Consistency
Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is well incorporated. The batter should be smooth, lump-free, and slightly thick. If it seems too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk to adjust consistency.
With the batter perfectly mixed, we’re now ready to transfer it into the prepared cake pans and move on to the baking process!
Serving Suggestions
A classic vanilla cake is delicious on its own, but the right pairings can elevate it into a show-stopping dessert. Here are some creative ways to serve and enjoy this homemade treat.
Frosting and Toppings
- Classic Buttercream Frosting – A smooth, creamy vanilla buttercream is the perfect match for this cake.
- Chocolate Ganache – Drizzle warm ganache over the cake for a rich, decadent finish.
- Fresh Berries and Whipped Cream – Top with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a light, refreshing contrast.
- Cream Cheese Frosting – A tangy-sweet frosting that balances the cake’s sweetness beautifully.
- Dusting of Powdered Sugar – Keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Pairing Ideas
- Coffee or Tea – The delicate vanilla flavor pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Ice Cream – Serve with a scoop of vanilla bean, chocolate, or caramel ice cream for a comforting dessert.
- Fruit Compote – A warm berry or peach compote adds a burst of flavor and color.
Occasions to Serve Vanilla Cake
- Birthdays & Celebrations – A beautifully frosted vanilla cake is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Afternoon Tea or Brunch – Serve with a side of fresh fruit and tea for a light treat.
- Holidays & Gatherings – Customize the cake with seasonal toppings like spiced caramel for fall or coconut flakes for summer.
This easy vanilla cake recipe is versatile enough for any occasion, whether enjoyed as a simple dessert or dressed up for a special event. Now, let’s wrap up with a quick summary and answer some common questions!
This simple vanilla cake recipe is proof that classic flavors never go out of style. With its light, fluffy texture and rich vanilla aroma, it’s a go-to dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it for a birthday, a casual afternoon treat, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake delivers perfection every time.
By following the baking tips and variations, you can customize this recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. From a classic buttercream topping to fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate, the serving possibilities are endless.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of baking a homemade vanilla cake, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen. Try it with different frostings, pair it with your favorite beverages, and most importantly—enjoy every bite!
Have more questions about making the perfect vanilla cake? Check out the FAQs below for expert answers!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this vanilla cake without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce, mashed bananas, or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. These alternatives help maintain the cake’s moisture and structure.
2. How do I store vanilla cake to keep it fresh?
Store your vanilla cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing to prevent dryness.
3. Can I use oil instead of butter in this recipe?
Yes, swapping butter for oil will create a softer, more moist cake. Use a neutral-flavored oil like vegetable or canola oil for the best results.
4. Why did my cake turn out dense instead of fluffy?
A dense cake can result from overmixing the batter, not using fresh baking powder, or baking at the wrong temperature. Be sure to mix until just combined and check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer.
5. Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?
Absolutely! Simply divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. What frosting pairs best with vanilla cake?
Vanilla cake is incredibly versatile! Try classic buttercream, chocolate ganache, cream cheese frosting, or even a light whipped cream topping for different flavor variations.
7. How can I enhance the vanilla flavor?
For a stronger vanilla taste, use high-quality pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste. You can also add a touch of almond extract to complement the vanilla.