Description
This Best Vanilla Cake Recipe is moist, fluffy, and full of rich vanilla flavor! Made with simple ingredients and a buttery crumb, this classic cake is perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any special occasion. Pair it with vanilla buttercream or your favorite frosting for a truly irresistible dessert!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for extra moisture, optional)
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pans
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Step 4: Add Eggs & Vanilla
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 5: Alternate Wet & Dry Ingredients
- Add half of the flour mixture to the butter mixture, then mix in half of the milk.
- Repeat with the remaining flour and milk, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in sour cream for extra moisture (optional).
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Vanilla Buttercream
- In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract, heavy cream, and salt, beating for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
Step 8: Assemble & Frost the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with frosting.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- Super Moist Cake Tip: Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for a softer crumb.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap butter for vegan butter and use almond or oat milk.
- Storage: Store covered at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Make Ahead: Freeze cake layers (wrapped in plastic wrap) for up to 2 months before frosting.