Best Vanilla Cake
Introduction
If you’re looking for a cake that’s light, fluffy, and downright delicious, the Best Vanilla Cake is it! This cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat on a regular day. With a simple vanilla flavor that everyone loves, it’s sure to be a hit.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Vanilla Cake is a great choice because it’s easy to prepare and always impresses. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced baker, you’ll find this recipe straightforward. Plus, the smell of the cake baking is simply delightful. Your family will rave about it, and you will enjoy making it over and over again!
How to Make Best Vanilla Cake
Making the Best Vanilla Cake is simple and fun. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious cake ready to enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 3 and 2/3 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 and 1/2 cups unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 additional egg whites
- 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 and 1/2 cups unsalted butter (for frosting)
- 5 and 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
- 1/3 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt (for frosting)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease three 9-inch cake pans, line them with parchment paper, and grease the parchment paper again.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda, then set it aside.
- In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, egg whites, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, until everything is mixed together. The batter will be thick.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 23-26 minutes. Once done, let the cakes cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually mix in the confectioners sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat for about 2 minutes and adjust sweetness or thickness if needed.
- To assemble the cake, slice off the tops of the cooled cakes to make them even. Place one layer on a plate and frost the top with 1 and 1/2 cups of frosting. Repeat with the remaining layers, then frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving.
How to Serve Best Vanilla Cake
The Best Vanilla Cake is perfect for serving at parties or as a family dessert. Slice it up and enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also add fresh berries on top for an extra treat!
How to Store Best Vanilla Cake
If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it if you prefer a chilled cake, but be sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.
Tips to Make Best Vanilla Cake
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; just mix until everything is combined.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe by adding your favorite flavors. For a chocolate version, swap out some of the flour for cocoa powder. You can also add fruit, like mashed bananas or strawberries, for a fruity twist.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour? Yes, but using cake flour will give you a lighter and fluffier cake.
How can I make it gluten-free? You can use a gluten-free cake flour blend instead of regular cake flour.
Can I freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.