Ever taken a bite of a cake that just melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more?
There’s something magical about a moist vanilla cake. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a slice of happiness. This Moist Vanilla Cake Recipe is incredibly simple — perfect for beginners or those looking to impress without all the fuss. You’ll whip it up in no time, and trust me, the aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!
Why Make This Recipe
Why will you adore this cake? Well, here are a few reasons to get you excited:
- Easy Cleanup: One bowl, minimal mess — you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist a classic vanilla cake. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile: You can dress it up with frosting or keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar. Who doesn’t love options? 😄
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Here’s what you’ll need for your Moist Vanilla Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
Ready to bake the best cake ever? Follow these simple steps:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed, don’t skip this step!
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Frost and Serve: Once the cakes are cool, frost with your favorite vanilla buttercream or any frosting you love. Slice and enjoy!
How to Make a Moist Vanilla Cake Recipe in 8 Easy Steps (Overview)
Here’s a quick overview of the cake-making process, just to keep things smooth:
- Preheat your oven and prep your pans.
- Mix your dry ingredients, then cream the butter and sugar.
- Add eggs then alternate mixing in the dry and wet ingredients.
- Divide and bake, then let them cool.
- Frost and delight in your creation!
Pro Tips: Don’t rush the cooling process; it can make or break the cake’s texture!
How to Serve How to Make a Moist Vanilla Cake Recipe in 8 Easy Steps
Serving this cake is where you can shine even brighter! Consider:
- A drizzle of chocolate ganache over the top for that elegant touch.
- Fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and flavor.
Imagine cutting into that soft, tender cake, your knife gliding effortlessly through, while the sweet vanilla aroma wafts through the air. Heaven in every bite!
How to Store How to Make a Moist Vanilla Cake Recipe in 8 Easy Steps
Wondering how long your masterpiece will last?
- In the fridge, it keeps for about 5 days.
- In the freezer, it can last up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly to keep it fresh!
To reheat, just pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds — perfect for a cozy dessert!
Tips to Make How to Make a Moist Vanilla Cake Recipe in 8 Easy Steps
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Don’t skip this – it helps everything blend better!
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Vanilla Quality Matters: Use pure vanilla extract for that extra flavor punch!
- Check for Doneness: Oven temps can vary; start checking a few minutes early.
- Experiment with Flavors: A pinch of almond extract or lemon zest can add a tasty twist!
Variation
Feel like switching things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Swap in almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Jazz it up with cocoa powder for a chocolate vanilla cake, or even throw in some citrus zest for a refreshing note!
FAQs
1. Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Just use about 3 cups of cake flour for a lighter texture.
2. How can I make this cake vegan?
Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use non-dairy milk and vegan butter.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes! Just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn and you can enjoy it later.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Moist Vanilla Cake
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Baking Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Mixing Ingredients
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Baking
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing 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. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cakes are cool, frost with your favorite vanilla buttercream or any frosting you love. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
Want just the essential recipe details without scrolling through the article? Get our printable recipe card with just the ingredients and instructions.