Are you ready to bake the ultimate vanilla cake? This classic treat is a favorite for all occasions. Follow this step-by-step recipe to achieve a moist, fluffy, and flavorful vanilla cake that will impress everyone. Let's get started!
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/4 cups (300g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Parchment paper
- Cooling racks
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out easily.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should be pale in color.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract. Ensure everything is well combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Frost and Assemble
Once the cakes are completely cool, you can frost and assemble them. Choose your favorite frosting – classic buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a whipped cream frosting. Spread a layer of frosting on the top of one cake layer, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides as desired.
Step 9: Decorate
Now, it's time to get creative! Add sprinkles, fresh fruit, or any decorations you like. Your perfect vanilla cake is ready to enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps them mix together more evenly.
- Measure Correctly: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for the flour.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Even Layers: To get even layers, weigh the batter in each pan.
- Cool Completely: Make sure your cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Conclusion
Baking a vanilla cake from scratch is easier than you might think. With these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a delicious, classic vanilla cake that’s perfect for any celebration. Happy baking!
By following these steps, you'll be able to bake a stunning vanilla cake that looks and tastes amazing. Don't forget to share your results and enjoy every bite! For more baking tips and recipes, stay tuned to our blog.
