Vanilla Cake

This Vanilla Cake recipe is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Its light and fluffy texture, paired with a rich vanilla flavor, makes it a crowd favorite. With three layers of cake, this dessert not only looks impressive but tastes heavenly too. Whether you serve it plain or dress it up with frosting and decorations, this Vanilla Cake is sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Vanilla Cake comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Flavor: The classic vanilla flavor pairs well with various frostings and fillings, allowing you to customize it to your taste.
• Impressive Presentation: Three layers create a stunning cake that will wow your guests at any event.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a holiday gathering, this cake fits right in.
• Leftover Friendly: This Vanilla Cake stays moist and delicious for days, perfect for enjoying later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Makes whipping butter and sugar easy and ensures a consistent batter.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without mess.
• Rubber spatula: Great for folding in ingredients gently and scraping down the sides of the bowl.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

This recipe makes three 6 inch layers.

For the Cake 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

For the Frosting

• 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: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine all the dry ingredients:
1. Add the cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
2. Whisk together until well combined, then set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together the milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
2. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using your stand mixer or handheld mixer:
1. Beat the room temperature butter and sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is mixed in well.

Step 5: Incorporate Egg Whites

Whisk the egg whites together in another bowl:
1. Slowly drizzle the egg whites into the butter mixture while on low speed.
2. Once added, increase the speed to high for about 1-2 minutes until fully combined—this may look curdled but will smooth out as you beat.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

With your mixer on low speed:
1. Add half of the dry ingredients to the batter, mixing until barely incorporated.
2. Add half of your milk mixture; mix briefly.
3. Repeat this process with the remaining dry ingredients followed by the remaining milk mixture.
4. Turn off your mixer and gently mix by hand using a rubber spatula to avoid overmixing.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans:
1. Fill each pan about one-third full.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes.
3. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

After baking:
1. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 15-20 minutes.
2. Gently remove them from pans and place on a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Enjoy creating this delightful Vanilla Cake, perfect for any celebration!

How to Serve Vanilla Cake

Serving vanilla cake can be a delightful experience that elevates any occasion. This classic dessert pairs beautifully with various accompaniments, enhancing its flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and arrange them on top for a vibrant, fruity touch.
• Raspberries: Scatter tart raspberries around the plate for a pop of color and tanginess.
• Blueberries: Add whole blueberries for a sweet burst that complements the cake’s flavor.

With Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: Serve a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top or alongside each slice for added richness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try infusing the cream with vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that enhances the cake’s flavor without overpowering it.
• Chocolate Ice Cream: The contrast of chocolate and vanilla creates a deliciously indulgent experience.

With Fruit Sauces

• Berry Sauce: Drizzle a homemade berry sauce made from blended berries and sugar over each slice for added moisture.
• Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel sauce can add a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with vanilla.

How to Perfect Vanilla Cake

To achieve the perfect vanilla cake, attention to detail is essential. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out just right:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better rise.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents packing and results in a lighter cake.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding dry and wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, as inaccuracies can affect baking time and results.
• Cool Cakes Properly: Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 15-20 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps maintain their shape.

Best Side Dishes for Vanilla Cake

Pairing side dishes with vanilla cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here’s a list of delightful options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and contrast to the sweet cake.
2. Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse provides a luscious complement to the lightness of vanilla cake.
3. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate between bites, offering a refreshing balance.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide another creamy dessert option that pairs well with vanilla flavors.
5. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle nutty granola on top of slices for added crunch and texture against the soft cake.
6. Coconut Whipped Topping: For those seeking a dairy-free option, coconut whipped topping adds tropical flair to each serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Vanilla Cake, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are key mistakes to look out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to a dense cake. Always use room temperature ingredients for a lighter texture.
• Overmixing the batter: This can result in a tough cake. Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Too much or too little of an ingredient can throw off the balance. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Skipping cooling time: Removing the cake from pans too soon can cause breakage. Allow it to cool properly before inverting onto wire racks.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cake covered with plastic wrap or foil for optimal freshness.

Freezing Vanilla Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Vanilla Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Vanilla Cake that might help you:

Can I make Vanilla Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it properly in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate.

What can I substitute for sour cream in Vanilla Cake?

You can use yogurt or buttermilk as alternatives that will still maintain moisture and flavor.

How do I ensure my Vanilla Cake is light and fluffy?

Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing the batter during preparation.

What’s the best way to frost my Vanilla Cake?

For a smooth finish, chill your cake first, then apply frosting evenly with an offset spatula. Enjoy decorating!

Final Thoughts

This Vanilla Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various flavors or toppings like fresh fruit or chocolate ganache. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!