A Vanilla Layer Cake is a timeless, elegant dessert that is soft, fluffy, and full of rich vanilla flavor. It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because! Here’s a recipe for a classic vanilla layer cake with a creamy buttercream frosting.
Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ¾ cups (330g) all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups (300ml) whole milk
- ½ cup (120ml) sour cream (optional, for extra moisture)
For the Vanilla Buttercream:
- 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
- 5 cups (600g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk (for consistency)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottoms of two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk and sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Bake the Cake Layers:
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Vanilla Buttercream:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk.
- Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2-3 minutes, until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add more cream or milk if needed to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
5. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake layers have cooled completely, place one layer on your serving plate.
- Spread a thick layer of buttercream on top, then place the second cake layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream, smoothing it out with a spatula.
6. Decorate and Serve:
- Decorate with sprinkles, fresh fruit, or piping, if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
This Vanilla Layer Cake is a perfect base for any celebration, and the buttercream frosting adds a luscious, creamy finish. It pairs well with fresh berries, a drizzle of caramel, or enjoyed just as is!