The VERY BEST Homemade Vanilla Cake

Name: The VERY BEST Homemade Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole milk; 3 large eggs; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2-4 tbsp milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

The VERY BEST Homemade Vanilla Cake is a delightful treat that promises to impress everyone at your next gathering. With its moist texture and rich vanilla flavor, this cake is perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T14:54:20.278Z

This homemade vanilla cake recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations. It’s the base for countless celebrations.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor that transports you to dessert heaven
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfectly versatile for any frosting or filling

      

The Perfect Celebration Cake

This homemade vanilla cake is the quintessential celebration cake that can elevate any occasion. Whether you’re throwing a birthday party, hosting a bridal shower, or just indulging in a cozy family gathering, this cake fits the bill. Its fluffy texture and inviting aroma make it a centerpiece that draws everyone in, ready to enjoy a slice of sweet delight.

What sets this cake apart is its ability to adapt to various themes and styles. You can dress it up with colorful sprinkles for a festive look or keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar for a more elegant presentation. No matter how you choose to decorate it, this cake will shine as the star of the dessert table.

Versatility Beyond Vanilla

While the rich vanilla flavor of this cake is undeniably delicious, it also serves as a fantastic base for numerous flavor variations. You can easily infuse the batter with citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, for a refreshing twist. Alternatively, consider adding a hint of almond extract for a unique depth of flavor that complements the vanilla beautifully.

Additionally, this cake pairs wonderfully with an array of frostings and fillings. From classic buttercream to a tangy cream cheese frosting, the options are endless. You can also layer it with fresh fruits or jam to create delightful flavor combinations that will impress your guests.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your homemade vanilla cake turns out perfectly every time, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar. Additionally, room temperature ingredients, such as eggs and butter, blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing your batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light and airy texture you desire. Mix until just combined, and then gently fold in any additional ingredients, such as chocolate chips or nuts, to maintain the cake's fluffy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your cake!

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
2 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
2-4 tbsp milk

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake the perfect vanilla cake.

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 bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Once frosted, your cake is ready to serve!

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is essential to keep your homemade vanilla cake fresh and delicious. Once cooled, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its shelf life for about a week.

For longer-term storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. This method allows you to enjoy a slice of your favorite cake even weeks later—just let it thaw at room temperature before indulging.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your homemade vanilla cake, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, can add a tart contrast that elevates the flavors.

For a more sophisticated presentation, drizzle a homemade chocolate ganache over the top or serve individual slices with a side of fruit coulis. These simple additions can transform your vanilla cake into an unforgettable dessert experience that your guests will adore.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, using cake flour will give you a lighter and fluffier cake.

→ How can I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the un-frosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?

You can add lemon zest or almond extract for a twist on the classic vanilla flavor.