A Slice of Heaven Awaits
Ever had a cake so fluffy and delicious that one slice just won’t cut it? Imagine a warm slice of vanilla cake, the aroma curling through your kitchen like a cozy hug. This classic recipe shines with simplicity, making it perfect for both the novice baker and the pro looking for an easy winner!
Why Make This Recipe
You’re going to love this recipe for a few tasty reasons! First off, it’s an easy cake that requires minimal cleanup—who doesn’t appreciate that? 💁♀️ You mix everything in one bowl, so there’s no kitchen chaos that looks like a flour bomb exploded. Plus, the ingredients are affordable, making your wallet happy while you indulge in homemade goodness.
And let’s not forget about how family-friendly it is! Kids can help mix and decorate, making it a fun activity and delicious reward all in one. Bring on the sprinkles!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost with your favorite vanilla frosting and enjoy! 🎉
How to Make Vanilla Cake (Overview)
Let’s break it down! Start by mixing the butter and sugar until fluffy—think cloud-like. Then, add in those eggs, and don’t forget the vanilla for that signature flavor. Next, mix your dry ingredients separately so they’re ready to cozy up to the wet mix.
Pro tip: Don’t overmix once you add flour; it keeps your cake super light! When everything’s in the pans, bake, cool, and frost. Voilà! You’ve got a lovely vanilla cake ready to impress.
How to Serve Vanilla Cake
Serving this cake is where the creativity can really shine! Slice it into wedges and drizzle with a chocolate ganache for an elegant look or sprinkle some fresh berries on top for a pop of color. Imagine that gorgeous white cake contrasting against vibrant fruit—absolutely stunning!
Also, consider serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The way those flavors mesh together is downright dreamy!
How to Store Vanilla Cake
This luscious vanilla cake can sit covered at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you have any leftovers (which might be questionable!), pop them in the fridge, where it’ll last for about a week.
Thinking about making it ahead? Just bake and cool, then wrap and freeze it for up to a month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, and you’re golden!
Tips to Make Vanilla Cake
Here are a few tricks to kick your cake up a notch:
- Room temperature ingredients yield a fluffier cake; let your eggs and butter sit out for a bit before you start.
- Use a cake leveler if you’re feeling fancy, so your layers are even.
- Got buttermilk? Use it in place of milk for extra tenderness.
- Don’t skip the toothpick test—it’s your best friend to avoid underbaking!
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Switch it up by adding a zest of lemon or orange for a citrusy twist! Going for a vegan option? Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond milk instead. The possibilities are endless! 🌈
FAQs
Can I make this cake healthier?
Absolutely! You can swap out half the sugar for applesauce or honey, and use whole wheat flour for a more nutritious option.
How do I make it ahead of time?
Bake the layers and freeze them un-frosted for up to a month. Just thaw and frost when you’re ready!
Can I freeze leftover slices?
Yep! Wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before diving in.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Fluffy Vanilla Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk Room temperature is preferred.
- 3.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs Room temperature is preferred.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost with your favorite vanilla frosting and enjoy!
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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