Are you searching for the perfect vanilla cake recipe that’s soft, fluffy, and incredibly moist? Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe will not disappoint! Learn how to bake the best vanilla cake ever with a light crumb, a tender texture, and a delicious flavor that lasts for days.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from ingredient selection to step-by-step instructions for baking. We’ll also cover how to ensure your cake stays moist, how to customize it for birthdays, and tips for decorating. Ready to start baking? Let’s dive in!
Why This Vanilla Cake is So Special
Key Features of Our Vanilla Cake
- Texture & Freshness: The cake has a soft, fluffy crumb and stays moist without being greasy. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, making it ideal for advanced preparations.
- Taste: With a subtle vanilla and butter flavor, it’s not overly sweet, making it perfect for layered cakes and decorating with frosting.
- Versatility: This recipe isn’t just for cakes—it works perfectly for vanilla cupcakes, layered cakes, and other creative desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This easy vanilla cake recipe requires only basic ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen!
- Plain / All-purpose flour: 2 cups (240g)
- Baking powder: 2 1/2 teaspoons
- Kosher salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Eggs: 4 large (room temperature)
- Caster / superfine sugar: 1 1/2 cups (300g)
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (115g), cut into cubes
- Full-fat milk: 1 cup (240ml)
- Vanilla extract: 3 teaspoons
- Vegetable oil: 3 teaspoons (15ml)
The key to achieving a fluffy vanilla cake lies in the combination of whipped eggs and a leavening agent like baking powder, which creates a light and airy texture.
How to Make the Best Vanilla Cake Recipe Ever
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Vanilla Cake
- Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line two 20cm (8-inch) round cake pans with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking. - Whip Eggs and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together using an electric mixer for about 7 minutes, until the mixture becomes thick and glossy. This step helps aerate the batter, ensuring a soft and fluffy vanilla cake. - Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of leavening agents and avoids lumps. - Add the Dry Ingredients Gradually
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the whipped egg mixture. Mix gently with a spatula until just incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the batter. - Incorporate Hot Milk and Butter
Heat the butter and milk in a saucepan until the butter is melted and the mixture is hot (but not boiling). Pour this mixture into the batter in two stages, mixing gently after each addition. This method helps maintain the airiness of the batter, a technique borrowed from Japanese sponge cakes. - Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. - Cool and Level the Cake
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you want flat layers, cool the cakes upside down. Otherwise, leave the domed top visible.
Pro Tips for a Soft, Moist Vanilla Cake
How to Make Vanilla Cake Moist
- Use Full-Fat Milk: Full-fat milk adds richness and moisture, ensuring the cake doesn’t dry out.
- Vegetable Oil: The addition of a small amount of vegetable oil helps keep the cake soft, even on Day 4. This is a secret to making sure your cake stays tender without weighing it down.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix only until the ingredients are combined.
How to Keep Your Vanilla Cake Moist for Days
Unlike many cakes that dry out quickly, this vanilla cake remains fresh for up to 4 days. Here’s how you can preserve its moisture:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for the best results.
- For longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the cake and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Decorating Your Vanilla Cake: Ideas and Tips
Now that your fluffy vanilla cake is ready, it’s time to decorate! Here are some great options:
- Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
A classic choice, vanilla buttercream is rich, creamy, and pairs beautifully with the delicate flavor of the cake. Pipe it on top and around the sides, or use it for a layered vanilla cake. - Chocolate Mirror Glaze
For a glossy finish, consider a chocolate mirror glaze. It adds a touch of elegance and extra flavor to your cake. - Simple Powdered Sugar Dusting
If you’re in a hurry or prefer something simpler, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a clean and subtle finish. - Victoria Sponge Style
Spread a layer of strawberry jam on the bottom cake layer, top it with whipped cream, and dust with powdered sugar for a traditional Victoria sponge cake. - Vanilla Cupcakes
Use this same batter to make vanilla cupcakes—this recipe yields about 24 cupcakes. You can top them with vanilla buttercream frosting or even get creative with sprinkles and berries.
FAQs About Vanilla Cake
Can I Make This Cake Without Butter?
Yes! You can make a moist vanilla cake recipe without butter by substituting with additional vegetable oil. The cake will still be soft and tender, but it will have a slightly different texture.
How Can I Ensure My Cake Is Fluffy?
To get a fluffy homemade vanilla cake recipe, make sure to properly whip the eggs and sugar, and use hot milk and butter in the batter. These steps are key to creating the perfect airiness.
What Type of Flour Should I Use for Vanilla Cake?
For this recipe, use plain all-purpose flour instead of cake flour. This helps keep the cake moist while enhancing the vanilla and butter flavors.
Final Thoughts: The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe Ever
This moist vanilla cake is a reliable, foolproof recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a simple cake or a multi-layered masterpiece, this recipe will deliver consistently great results. With its tender crumb, rich flavor, and versatility, it’s the perfect foundation for any cake design.
Don’t forget to experiment with different frosting options and toppings—this fluffy vanilla cake can be customized for any celebration, from birthdays to holidays. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll understand why it’s one of the best vanilla cake recipes you’ll ever make!
Try this vanilla cake recipe today and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and check out our other cake recipes for more baking inspiration.
