Indulge in the delightful world of Vanilla Cake, a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a simple afternoon treat, this vanilla cake boasts a soft and fluffy texture with a rich flavor that everyone will love. With its versatile nature, it can be dressed up with frosting or enjoyed plain, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Follow: The straightforward steps make baking this vanilla cake a breeze, even for beginners.
- Deliciously Versatile: Whether you want to serve it plain or layer with your favorite frosting, this cake adapts to your preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From birthday parties to casual get-togethers, a vanilla cake fits right in at any event.
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of butter and sour cream ensures every bite is tender and bursting with flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to add fruits or sprinkles to make it your own!
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your baking adventure, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 6-inch cake tins (3)
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency when beating ingredients.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure even mixing.
- Cake tins: Providing uniform layers is key to a beautifully stacked vanilla cake.
Ingredients
This recipe makes three 6 inch layers.
- 2 cups cake flour (280 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 egg whites
- 2 sticks of butter (226 g – room temperature)
- 1 1/4 cups sugar (280 g)
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1 cup milk (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (125 g – room temperature)
- 1 cup butter (227 g – room temperature)
- 1/2 cup shortening (Crisco) (100 g)
- 6 cups sifted powdered sugar (750 g)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla
How to Make Vanilla Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare three 6-inch cake tins by buttering them, dusting with flour, and lining with parchment paper for easy release.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine all dry ingredients:
* Whisk together the cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl:
* Mix together the milk, sour cream, and vanilla. Set aside for later use.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer:
* Beat the room temperature butter and sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes until smooth and creamy. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Step 5: Incorporate Egg Whites
In another bowl:
* Whisk egg whites together with a fork.
* Slowly drizzle egg whites into the butter mixture while keeping the mixer on low speed until fully incorporated. Increase speed to high for about 1–2 minutes until combined.
Step 6: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Together
On low speed:
* Add half of the dry mixture until barely mixed.
* Add half of the milk mixture and mix briefly.
* Repeat with remaining dry ingredients followed by the remaining milk mixture.
* Turn off mixer and use a rubber spatula to combine gently without overmixing.
Step 7: Bake the Cakes
Pour batter evenly into prepared pans:
* Fill each pan about one-third full. Bake in preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, cakes are done.
Step 8: Cool Cakes
Allow cakes to cool completely in pans for about 15–20 minutes:
* Gently remove from pans and transfer to wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
How to Serve Vanilla Cake
Serving vanilla cake can be as delightful as baking it. With its rich buttery flavor and fluffy texture, this cake pairs well with a variety of toppings and accompaniments that enhance its taste.
Frosting Options
- Classic Buttercream: A sweet, creamy buttercream frosting is perfect for slathering between layers and on top.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a touch of elegance while keeping it simple.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: This tangy frosting balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
Fruit Toppings
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of freshness and color.
- Sliced Bananas: Layered bananas provide a sweet, soft contrast to the cake’s texture.
- Citrus Zest: Grated lemon or orange zest can brighten up each slice with a citrusy aroma.
Sauces and Drizzles
- Chocolate Ganache: Rich chocolate ganache creates a luscious topping that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce brings a deep, sweet flavor to each bite.
- Fruit Puree: A berry or mango puree can complement the vanilla flavor while adding vibrant color.
How to Perfect Vanilla Cake
Perfecting your vanilla cake involves some key techniques that ensure a moist and fluffy result every time. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Measure Ingredients Correctly: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour, to avoid dense cakes.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cakes due to gluten development.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
Best Side Dishes for Vanilla Cake
Pairing side dishes with vanilla cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options that work well together.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or chocolate ice cream complements the cake’s flavor and adds creaminess.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light counterpart to the rich cake.
- Custard Sauce: A smooth custard sauce drizzled over the cake adds richness and moisture.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor when served on the side.
- Pecan Pie Bars: These bars bring nutty sweetness that pairs well with vanilla flavors.
- Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet refreshes the palate after enjoying sweet vanilla cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Vanilla Cake, it’s easy to make simple errors that can lead to undesirable results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Boldly measuring ingredients – Not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin your cake. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
- Ignoring room temperature – Using cold eggs, milk, or butter can prevent proper mixing and texture. Ensure all dairy and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy Vanilla Cake.
- Skipping the cooling time – Removing cakes from pans too early may cause them to break or lose shape. Allow cakes to cool completely before removing from the pans.
- Not checking oven temperature – An inaccurate oven temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked cakes. Use an oven thermometer for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep layers separate with parchment paper between them if not frosted.
Freezing Vanilla Cake
- Wrap individual layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best freshness.
Reheating Vanilla Cake
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Heat slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds at a time until warm.
- Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid, warming for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Vanilla Cake.
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Yes, you can use whole eggs, but the cake may be denser. Egg whites add lightness and fluffiness.
How do I make my Vanilla Cake more flavorful?
Consider adding extra vanilla extract or incorporating vanilla bean seeds into the batter for enhanced flavor.
What should I serve with Vanilla Cake?
Vanilla Cake pairs well with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to elevate its taste.
Can I customize my Vanilla Cake?
Absolutely! You can add flavors like lemon zest, almond extract, or even chocolate chips for variety.
How do I store leftover Vanilla Cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Vanilla Cake recipe is both delightful and versatile, perfect for any occasion. With its light texture and sweet flavor, it’s easy to customize by adding different fillings or toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious possibilities!
Vanilla Cake
Indulge in the timeless delight of Vanilla Cake, a classic dessert that brings joy to any occasion. With its soft and fluffy texture, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. The rich vanilla flavor captivates everyone, while its versatility allows it to shine either plain or adorned with your favorite frosting. Whether you choose to layer it with a creamy buttercream or serve it with fresh fruits, this simple vanilla cake recipe guarantees delicious results every time.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 4 egg whites
- 2 sticks unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 ¼ cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk (room temperature)
- ½ cup sour cream (room temperature)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare three 6-inch cake tins by buttering and lining them with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda; set aside.
- In another bowl, mix milk, sour cream, and vanilla; set aside.
- Beat the butter and sugar until creamy. Gradually add the egg whites until fully incorporated.
- Alternate adding the dry mixture and milk mixture to the butter mixture on low speed until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting or serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg