Vanilla Cake

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, you’ve landed in the right place! This Vanilla Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of joy that can brighten any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply a cozy night in, this cake is sure to bring smiles and happy memories to your table. It has a soft, tender crumb and is bursting with delicious vanilla flavor, making it an instant favorite for both kids and adults alike!

What I love most about this Vanilla Cake is how easy it is to make. Even if you’re new to baking, you’ll find this recipe approachable and rewarding. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead of time or enjoying fresh from the oven. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll be whipping up this cake in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cake! This Vanilla Cake is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just because.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The rich vanilla flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
• Make Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead of time and frost it later when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create our delightful Vanilla Cake! These pantry staples combine beautifully to deliver that classic taste we all adore.

For the Cake

• 2 cups cake flour (280 g)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 egg whites
• 2 sticks of butter (226 g – room temperature)
• 1 1/4 cups sugar (280 g)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 cup milk (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (125 g – room temperature)

For the Frosting

• 1 cup butter (227 g – room temperature)
• 1/2 cup shortening (Crisco) (100 g)
• 6 cups sifted powdered sugar (750 g)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla

Variations

This Vanilla Cake is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations.

• Add Fresh Fruit: Toss in some berries or sliced bananas for a fruity twist that adds moisture and flavor.
• Incorporate Citrus Zest: A bit of lemon or orange zest can brighten up the cake with zesty undertones.
• Try Different Extracts: Swap out vanilla for almond extract or another favorite flavor for a unique twist.
• Make It Chocolate: Replace some cake flour with cocoa powder for a delicious chocolate version!

How to Make Vanilla Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F/177°C. Butter and flour three 6-inch cake tins, then line them with parchment paper. This step ensures your cakes come out easily without sticking!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisk them together well and set aside. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout your batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together the milk, sour cream, and vanilla. Set this aside too. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your cake!

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a handheld or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar on medium speed for about three minutes until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula as needed. This step incorporates air into the butter which helps create that light texture we love in cakes.

Step 5: Add Egg Whites

Whisk the egg whites together in a separate bowl. Slowly drizzle them into your creamed butter mixture while keeping the mixer on low speed. Once all are added, increase the speed to high for about one to two minutes until well combined—don’t worry if it looks curdled at first; it will smooth out beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

On low speed, add half of your dry mixture followed by half of your milk mixture; mix briefly until just combined. Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients and milk mixture. Turn off your mixer and use a rubber spatula to gently fold everything together—this avoids overmixing which can lead to dense cakes.

Step 7: Bake Your Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into each prepared pan so they’re about one-third full. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes until cooked through—test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

Step 8: Cool Down!

Allow your cakes to cool in their pans for about 15-20 minutes before gently removing them onto wire racks to cool completely. Cooling properly prevents soggy bottoms and allows you to frost them easily later on.

And there you have it—a scrumptious Vanilla Cake just waiting for frosting or perhaps some fresh fruit! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Cake

Baking a perfect vanilla cake is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out moist, fluffy, and delicious every time:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, milk, and sour cream to room temperature helps them combine more smoothly, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated to keep it light and fluffy.
• Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature. Using an oven thermometer ensures you’re baking at the correct heat, preventing undercooking or overbaking.
• Cool cakes properly: Allowing your cakes to cool in the pans for about 15-20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack prevents them from sticking and helps maintain their structure.
• Sift your flour: Sifting helps aerate the flour, making it lighter and easier to mix into the batter, which contributes to a beautifully tender cake.

How to Serve Vanilla Cake

Presenting your vanilla cake beautifully can make all the difference when serving friends and family. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this classic dessert!

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with each slice, enhancing the overall experience.
• Chocolate shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top gives an elegant touch and adds a rich flavor contrast to the vanilla.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beside a slice of cake creates a comforting dessert duo that’s hard to resist.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds a lightness that balances out the richness of the cake.
• Coffee or tea: Serving slices with freshly brewed coffee or tea offers a warm beverage option that enhances flavors and makes for a cozy dessert experience.
• Custard sauce: A drizzle of homemade custard sauce brings an indulgent element that elevates each bite of cake while adding moisture.

Enjoy creating and sharing this lovely vanilla cake recipe! It’s perfect for any occasion or simply as a sweet treat during those cozy nights at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This vanilla cake is not just delightful to eat fresh; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can bake the layers in advance and store them, making it easy to whip up a delicious dessert whenever you want.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you have frosted the cake, keep it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, where it will last for about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake layers, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
• Place slices of cake on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making vanilla cake that might help clarify any uncertainties!

Can I make Vanilla Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the layers in advance and store them as described above. This makes preparing for special occasions or gatherings much easier.

What makes Vanilla Cake so special?

The combination of soft, fluffy layers with rich vanilla flavor makes this vanilla cake a classic favorite. It’s versatile enough for any occasion!

Can I substitute ingredients in the Vanilla Cake recipe?

Yes, you can substitute milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk. Make sure to use plant-based sour cream if desired!

How do I ensure my Vanilla Cake stays moist?

Using room temperature ingredients and not overmixing the batter are key factors in keeping your cake moist and tender.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this vanilla cake as much as I do! It’s a wonderful treat that brings comfort and joy, perfect for celebrating life’s little moments or just indulging yourself. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So roll up your sleeves, have fun in the kitchen, and savor every delicious bite!