moist Vanilla Dream Cake

Here’s a recipe for the ultimate Moist Vanilla Dream Cake – a rich, tender, and super moist vanilla cake that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste for extra flavor)
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• ½ cup sour cream, at room temperature (adds extra moisture and richness)
• ¼ cup vegetable oil (for added moisture)

For the Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4-5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream (to adjust consistency)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Make the Vanilla Dream Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together for 3-4 minutes, until light and fluffy. This step helps create the perfect tender crumb.
4. Add eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse that rich vanilla flavor throughout.
5. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sour cream, and vegetable oil. These ingredients are key for a super moist cake.
6. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the wet mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
7. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Make the Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat butter and cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.
3. Add vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
4. Adjust consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Layer the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of vanilla cream cheese frosting over the top.
2. Add the second layer: Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
3. Decorate: For an elegant look, keep it smooth, or decorate with sprinkles, fresh berries, or vanilla bean specks for a dreamy finish.
4. Serve: Slice and enjoy this incredibly moist, dreamy vanilla cake with creamy, tangy frosting.

This Moist Vanilla Dream Cake is perfect for celebrations or when you want to indulge in something truly special!