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Best Vanilla Cake

This classic vanilla cake recipe is renowned for its light, fluffy texture and delicate vanilla flavor. It’s the perfect base for countless flavor combinations, frostings, or to enjoy as-is with a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

  • Total Time: 45-55 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 12

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups cake flour (or all-purpose, see notes)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
  4. Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
  5. Alternating Wet & Dry: Add dry ingredients in thirds, alternating with milk. Begin and end with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – don’t overmix.
  6. Bake: Divide batter between pans. Bake 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool: Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto racks to cool completely.
  8. Frost: Frost with your favorite frosting, or enjoy plain!

Notes

  • For a dairy-free cake, use vegan butter and a plant-based milk alternative, like almond or soy milk.
  • Add a splash of your favorite liqueur (like rum, amaretto, or coffee liqueur) to the batter for a flavor boost.
  • A small amount of citrus zest (lemon, orange, or lime) adds a bright and fresh element.
  • Author: Juana M. Benedict
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg