Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a simple slice of cake. It’s a timeless treat, perfect for any celebration or just because you’re craving something sweet. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, easy, and absolutely delightful, this Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe is the answer. Not only is it a breeze to make, but it also yields a fluffy, moist cake that can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with frosting, fruits, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.
The beauty of a vanilla cake lies in its versatility. Whether it’s for a birthday, a family gathering, or a casual afternoon snack, this cake is sure to win everyone over. Plus, this recipe doesn’t require any special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a few pantry staples, and you’re ready to create a treat that’s both comforting and impressive!
Recipe Card
Recipe Name: Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe
Description: This Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s light, fluffy, and incredibly simple to make, with basic ingredients you likely already have at home.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Calories: 250 per serving
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack.
Notes:
- You can frost this cake with your favorite frosting, such as buttercream or cream cheese frosting, or serve it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the butter with sour cream.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g
Why You’ll Love This Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Quick and Simple: With only a handful of ingredients, this Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe can be whipped up in just 45 minutes. Perfect for when you need a sweet treat without much fuss!
- Versatile: Whether you enjoy it plain, frosted, or topped with fresh fruit, this cake is a great base for many variations.
- No Special Equipment: You don’t need any fancy tools—just your basic mixing bowls and a cake pan.
- Light and Fluffy: This cake is tender and moist, with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
- Budget-Friendly: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe an affordable option when you’re craving something homemade.
Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe ingredients and Substitutions
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the cake and provides the necessary structure. You can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but all-purpose flour works just fine for this Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe.
- Granulated Sugar: White sugar gives the cake sweetness and contributes to the texture. You could experiment with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option.
- Unsalted Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor. If you’re out of butter, vegetable oil or coconut oil can be used, though it may change the texture slightly.
- Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients and provide structure. If you’re looking for an egg-free version, try substituting with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or applesauce.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, vanilla essence can work as well.
How to Make Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your 9-inch round cake pan. This ensures that the cake doesn’t stick to the pan, making it easier to remove once it’s baked. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for extra insurance.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important because it ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps the cake rise evenly.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer or a whisk to cream the butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, helping to give the cake its airy texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will add a beautiful flavor to the cake.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start with the dry ingredients and end with them, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know the cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can frost it, dust it with powdered sugar, or serve it as-is for a simple treat.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once the flour is added, mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This will help them blend together more smoothly.
- Check for Doneness Early: Ovens vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. This helps prevent over-baking.
Variations and Customizations for Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Chocolate Version: Add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a quick chocolate twist on this Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe.
- Lemon Vanilla Cake: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest and a little lemon juice for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk to make this cake dairy-free.
- Frosting Options: Try pairing the cake with buttercream frosting, whipped cream, or even a fruit glaze for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven for a few minutes at 300°F (150°C).
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
- For a more festive touch, decorate the cake with colorful sprinkles, whipped cream, or even chocolate shavings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)about Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the cake a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container, and frost it just before serving for the best results.
Q: Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute self-rising flour, but omit the baking powder and salt since self-rising flour already contains them.
Related Recipes
- Classic Chocolate Cake: For chocolate lovers, this is the perfect counterpart to your vanilla cake.
- Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A delicious twist on the traditional vanilla cake, filled with spice and flavor.
Conclusion
This Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe is the perfect treat for any occasion, offering simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll find this recipe to be straightforward, quick, and incredibly delicious. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice (or two) of this mouthwatering cake!