The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe

Here’s a recipe for The Best Vanilla Cake – moist, fluffy, and filled with rich vanilla flavor!

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
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste for extra flavor)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk mixed with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup sour cream (adds extra moisture and richness)

For the Vanilla Buttercream:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Make the Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). This step ensures a soft and fluffy texture.
4. Add eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that rich vanilla flavor.
5. Add buttermilk and sour cream: Reduce mixer speed to low. Gradually add in the flour mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined – don’t overmix!
6. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 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 Buttercream:

1. Beat butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth (about 2 minutes).
2. Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.
3. Add vanilla: Mix in the heavy cream, vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste), and a pinch of salt. Beat on medium-high speed until the buttercream is light, fluffy, and smooth (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Adjust consistency: If the buttercream is too thick, add a little more cream (1 tablespoon at a time) until you reach the desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Layer the cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of buttercream 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 vanilla buttercream.
3. Decorate: For a classic look, keep it simple, or add sprinkles, fresh berries, or edible flowers for an elegant touch.
4. Serve: Slice and enjoy the perfect vanilla cake, with a tender crumb and creamy buttercream!

This vanilla cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you want to enjoy a timeless dessert!