Homemade Vanilla Cake

This Homemade Vanilla Cake recipe is a delightful treat that shines at any gathering. Its soft texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a favorite for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply as a sweet indulgence. With easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can achieve impressive results. This cake pairs beautifully with various frostings, allowing you to customize it for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Homemade Vanilla Cake
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake
• How to Make Homemade Vanilla Cake
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Add Butter
• Step 4: Add Buttermilk and Vanilla
• Step 5: Incorporate Eggs
• Step 6: Prepare for Baking
• Step 7: Bake
• Step 8: Cool
• How to Serve Homemade Vanilla Cake
• Simple Slice
• Frosted Delight
• Fresh Berries
• Whipped Cream
• Ice Cream Pairing
• Layered Dessert
• How to Perfect Homemade Vanilla Cake
• Best Side Dishes for Homemade Vanilla Cake
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Instructions
• Reheating Instructions
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make my Homemade Vanilla Cake more flavorful?
• Can I substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour in this Homemade Vanilla Cake recipe?
• What frosting works best with Homemade Vanilla Cake?
• How long does Homemade Vanilla Cake last at room temperature?
• Can I bake this recipe as cupcakes instead?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Vanilla Cake

This cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile.

• Easy to Make: With just one bowl and simple ingredients, this cake is perfect for beginner bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The addition of pure vanilla extract guarantees a rich and heavenly taste in every bite.
• Versatile Usage: It works well as a base for layered cakes, cupcakes, or even served plain with a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Customizable: Pair it with your favorite frosting or add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a celebration or a casual dessert, this cake fits the bill perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Gather the essential tools before you start baking to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing the batter quick and effortless, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• 9-inch round cake pans: These help in creating even layers for beautiful presentation and baking consistency.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the cake from the pans.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 3 ¾ cups (390 grams) cake flour (or 3 cups (360 grams) all-purpose flour)
• 2 cups (400 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 ½ cups (340 grams) buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 large egg whites, at room temperature

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How to Make Homemade Vanilla Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by lining the bottoms with parchment paper. Lightly spray only the parchment with nonstick cooking spray. Avoid spraying the sides of the pans.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine:
1. The flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Baking powder
4. Fine sea salt

Stir these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.

Step 3: Add Butter

Add the unsalted butter to the mixture. Beat on medium speed for about one minute until you achieve a coarse texture.

Step 4: Add Buttermilk and Vanilla

Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add buttermilk and pure vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix for one minute until combined. Then increase speed to medium and beat for an additional thirty seconds. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Again reduce speed to low and add eggs one at a time:
1. Mix each egg until fully incorporated.
2. Add egg whites and beat on medium-high speed for thirty seconds until your batter becomes smooth.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Divide your batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth out the tops with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake

Place both pans in your preheated oven. Bake for twenty-five to thirty minutes or until edges turn golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when done.

Step 8: Cool

Once baked, remove cakes from oven and let them cool in pans for five minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.

This Homemade Vanilla Cake is sure to impress! Enjoy it alone or dressed up with your favorite frosting!

How to Serve Homemade Vanilla Cake

Homemade vanilla cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to suit different occasions and preferences. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your homemade vanilla cake experience.

Simple Slice

• Serve plain slices of the homemade vanilla cake for a classic treat. Enjoy the rich flavor without any toppings.

Frosted Delight

• Top your cake with buttercream or chocolate frosting. This adds a sweet touch that complements the vanilla flavor beautifully.

Fresh Berries

• Serve slices with a side of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cake.

Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an airy texture that enhances each bite. It’s perfect for special occasions!

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast.

Layered Dessert

• Create individual layered desserts by cutting small pieces of cake and layering them with whipped cream and fruit in clear cups.

How to Perfect Homemade Vanilla Cake

Creating the perfect homemade vanilla cake involves attention to detail and following some helpful tips. Use these suggestions to elevate your baking skills.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups and level off with a knife to avoid dense cake due to excess flour.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined after adding eggs. Overmixing can lead to tough cake layers.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Cool Before Frosting: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of frosting.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding variations like almond extract or citrus zest for a unique twist on classic vanilla flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Homemade Vanilla Cake

While homemade vanilla cake shines on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Consider these options when serving your cake.

1. Coffee: A strong cup of coffee pairs well with sweet cakes, providing a balanced flavor profile.
2. Tea: Herbal or black tea can offer a soothing contrast, making it ideal for afternoon gatherings.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and freshness, helping to cleanse the palate between bites.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice adds an indulgent touch that’s hard to resist.
5. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweetness while adding a rich flavor contrast.
6. Custard: Serve slices with creamy custard for an elegant touch that elevates your dessert presentation.
7. Ice Cream Floats: Create fun ice cream floats using soda and ice cream as a playful accompaniment to your homemade vanilla cake.
8. Nut Toppings: Offer chopped nuts on the side for guests who enjoy a crunchy texture alongside their soft cake slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking your Homemade Vanilla Cake, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can prevent the cake from mixing properly. Always let them sit out for about 30 minutes before baking.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy one. Mix just until combined after adding the eggs.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down and result in too much flour. Use a spoon to aerate it first, then spoon it into your measuring cup.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your pans can cause sticking, making it difficult to remove the cakes. Always use parchment paper for easy release.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: An oven that is too hot or too cool can change your baking time and texture. Always preheat and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
• The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid on. Heat for about 5 minutes, checking often to avoid burning.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Homemade Vanilla Cake more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by using high-quality vanilla extract or adding vanilla bean paste for extra depth in taste.

Can I substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour in this Homemade Vanilla Cake recipe?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour. Just be aware that the texture may be slightly denser.

What frosting works best with Homemade Vanilla Cake?

Classic buttercream frosting pairs wonderfully, but chocolate buttercream adds a delicious twist!

How long does Homemade Vanilla Cake last at room temperature?

Properly stored, it lasts about 2 days at room temperature before it starts to dry out.

Can I bake this recipe as cupcakes instead?

Absolutely! This recipe makes about 24 cupcakes; bake them for 30 to 35 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Vanilla Cake is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. Its soft crumb and delightful vanilla flavor make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different frostings or add-ins like fruit or nuts. Enjoy baking this delicious treat!