This Best Vanilla Cake Recipe is a classic, moist, and fluffy cake perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you crave a rich and buttery dessert. With simple ingredients and an easy method, this cake is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light, fluffy, and moist texture
Rich vanilla flavor
Perfect for layering and decorating
Easy to make with basic pantry staples
Great for birthdays, weddings, or any celebration

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Whole milk
Vegetable oil

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the batter, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
Add Oil: Stir in vegetable oil for added moisture.
Bake: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Dairy-Free Version: Replace butter with dairy-free margarine and milk with almond or oat milk.
Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a unique twist.
Layer Cake: Double the recipe for a taller, layered cake.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.
Reheating: Serve at room temperature for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap.

What frosting pairs best with this cake?

Vanilla buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or chocolate ganache all work well.

How do I prevent a dry cake?

Do not overmix the batter, and make sure to measure ingredients accurately.

Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes! Substitute 1 cup of cake flour for every 1 cup of all-purpose flour, minus 2 tablespoons.

Can I make cupcakes with this batter?

Yes! Adjust the baking time to 18-20 minutes for cupcakes.

What type of vanilla extract should I use?

Pure vanilla extract provides the best flavor, but vanilla bean paste is a great alternative.

How can I make the cake extra moist?

Adding sour cream or Greek yogurt can enhance moisture.

Can I use this recipe for a wedding cake?

Yes! This cake is sturdy enough for stacking and decorating.

What’s the best way to level cake layers?

Use a serrated knife or a cake leveler for even layers.

Can I make this cake without eggs?

Yes! Use applesauce or a commercial egg replacer as a substitute.

Conclusion

This Best Vanilla Cake Recipe is a timeless classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or just indulging in a homemade treat, this moist and flavorful cake will be a favorite for years to come!