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Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe

A close-up of a fluffy slice of perfect vanilla cake on a white plate, with the rest of the cake in the background.

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A tender, buttery yellow cake with a fine crumb and true vanilla flavor, perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe is a versatile foundation for your favorite fillings and frostings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a finer crumb, ensure your butter is properly softened but not melted.
  • Creaming butter and sugar well incorporates air, which helps create a lighter cake.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added, as this can lead to a dense cake.
  • This cake is a great base for various frostings and fillings, such as buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or fresh fruit.

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