A classic homemade vanilla cake that is light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion.
Chefadora AI has the answer - timers, swaps, step-by-step help.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 7- or 8-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Frost or decorate as desired, or enjoy plain.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
How do I make a light and fluffy vanilla cake from scratch?
To make a light and fluffy vanilla cake from scratch, start by creaming softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate vanilla extract for flavor. Gradually mix in your dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) with whole milk, alternating between the two. Be careful not to overmix to maintain that fluffy texture!
What are some suitable substitutions for ingredients in a vanilla cake?
If you're looking for substitutions in your vanilla cake, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. Unsalted butter can be substituted with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a dairy-free cake. For a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, but keep in mind that this may affect the texture.
How should I store leftover vanilla cake to keep it fresh?
To keep your leftover vanilla cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing to prevent freezer burn.
What are some delicious frosting or topping ideas for vanilla cake?
There are many delicious frosting and topping options for vanilla cake! Classic choices include buttercream frosting, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream. For a fruity twist, consider topping it with fresh berries or a fruit glaze. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a simple yet elegant finish.
What can I serve with vanilla cake for a complete dessert experience?
To create a complete dessert experience with your vanilla cake, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, pairs beautifully with the cake's flavor. You could also serve it alongside a warm chocolate sauce for drizzling, adding a rich contrast to the light cake.
