Vanilla Cake

This Vanilla Cake recipe is perfect for any celebration, from birthdays to weddings. Its moist texture and rich flavor make it a delightful treat that can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with frosting and decorations. Easy to prepare, this cake is sure to impress your guests and become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Moist: The combination of butter, milk, and sour cream ensures a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile: Dress it up with your favorite frosting or serve it plain; this cake works well for any occasion.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, you won’t need to hunt for exotic items.
• Perfect Layers: Bake three layers for a stunning layered cake presentation that looks as good as it tastes.
• Easy to Follow: Clear instructions make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Vanilla Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and ensure you don’t miss any steps.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cake tins (6 inch)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Makes whipping butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry ingredients separately before adding them to wet ingredients.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl and gently folding in ingredients without overmixing.

Ingredients

This recipe makes three 6 inch layers.

• 2 cups cake flour ((280 g))
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 teaspoons 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 teaspoons 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 them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
1. Cake flour
2. Salt
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Milk
2. Sour cream
3. Vanilla

Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat the room-temperature butter and sugar on medium speed (4) for about 3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
2. Scrape down the bowl’s sides using a spatula to ensure even mixing.

Step 5: Add Egg Whites

Whisk the egg whites in a separate bowl. Slowly drizzle them into the butter-sugar mixture while keeping the mixer on low speed (2).
Once incorporated, increase the speed to high (8) for about 1–2 minutes until well combined — it may look curdled initially but will smooth out.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

On low speed:
1. Add half of the dry ingredient mixture until just incorporated.
2. Then add half of the wet ingredient mixture.
3. Continue adding remaining dry ingredients followed by remaining wet ingredients.
4. Turn off the mixer and use a rubber spatula to mix by hand gently — do not overmix.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Pans

Evenly distribute the batter into each prepared pan so it’s about one-third full. Bake for approximately 30–35 minutes or until inserting a toothpick into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Cakes

Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 15–20 minutes before gently removing them from pans onto a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Vanilla Cake

Serving vanilla cake can be a delightful experience. This versatile dessert pairs well with various toppings and accompaniments that enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your vanilla cake.

Fresh Fruits

• Berries – A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a fresh, tangy contrast.
• Sliced Peaches – Juicy peaches bring sweetness and a beautiful pop of color to each slice.
• Banana Slices – Soft banana slices provide a creamy texture that complements the cake’s fluffiness.

Whipped Cream

• Classic Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream is a perfect topping for adding richness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream – Consider infusing with vanilla or almond extract for an extra flavor boost.

Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The classic pairing of vanilla cake with vanilla ice cream creates a double dose of flavor.
• Fruit Sorbet – For a lighter option, try serving with a refreshing fruit sorbet that contrasts nicely with the cake.

Sauces

• Chocolate Sauce – Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cake adds decadence and richness.
• Caramel Sauce – Sweet caramel sauce pairs beautifully with the vanilla flavor and adds a luxurious touch.

How to Perfect Vanilla Cake

Achieving the perfect vanilla cake requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some essential tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Allow eggs, milk, and butter to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly – Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cakes caused by excess flour.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until combined to prevent a tough texture; overmixing can lead to gluten development.
• Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Rotate Cake Tins – Halfway through baking, rotate the pans for uniform heat distribution, leading to evenly baked layers.

Best Side Dishes for Vanilla Cake

Pairing delicious side dishes with your vanilla cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider when serving this delightful treat.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A medley of seasonal fruits adds color and freshness alongside your rich vanilla cake.
2. Chocolate Mousse – Silky chocolate mousse offers a luxurious contrast that enhances the overall dessert experience.
3. Coconut Macaroons – These chewy treats provide unique texture and flavor that complements the soft vanilla cake.
4. Pistachio Crumble – A crunchy pistachio topping adds both taste and crunch when sprinkled over each slice of cake.
5. Lemon Curd – The tartness of lemon curd brightens up the sweetness of vanilla cake, creating an exciting flavor combination.
6. Almond Biscotti – Crunchy almond biscotti can be served alongside as a delightful dipping option in coffee or tea.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Vanilla Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake. Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your cake tough. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour properly: Too much flour can dry out your cake. Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your cake pans can result in sticking. Always use parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cakes.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Baking times can vary by oven. Keep an eye on your cakes and use a toothpick to check for doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• If layered with frosting, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Vanilla Cake

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date so you know when to use it.

Reheating Vanilla Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power in 10-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick pan over low heat, cover, and heat gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vanilla Cake:

Can I make Vanilla Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake it a day or two in advance. Just store it properly in the refrigerator or freeze it.

How do I make my Vanilla Cake more flavorful?

Adding more vanilla extract or using vanilla bean paste can enhance the flavor significantly.

Why did my Vanilla Cake sink in the middle?

This often happens due to underbaking or too much liquid in the batter. Ensure accurate measurements and proper baking time.

What frosting goes well with Vanilla Cake?

Buttercream frosting is a classic choice that pairs wonderfully with Vanilla Cake. Cream cheese frosting also adds a delicious twist.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this Vanilla Cake recipe?

Yes, you can substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Vanilla Cake recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different frostings, fillings, or toppings to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a simple dessert, this cake will impress everyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try!

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Vanilla Cake

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in this delightful Vanilla Cake recipe, perfect for any celebration! With its moist layers and rich flavor, this cake is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with your favorite frosting. Ideal for birthdays, weddings, or any special occasion, this simple yet elegant cake is sure to impress your guests and become a family favorite. Easy to prepare with common pantry staples, it features a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Follow this straightforward recipe to create a stunning layered cake that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups cake flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 4 egg whites
• 2 sticks unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 1/4 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (room temperature)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare three 6-inch cake tins by greasing them and lining with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In another small bowl, mix the milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
4. Beat the room-temperature butter and sugar with a mixer until creamy. Add egg whites gradually while mixing on low speed.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and wet ingredients to the butter mixture until just combined. Mix gently using a spatula without overmixing.
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool in pans for about 20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg