Welcome to the delightful world of baking, where today we’re diving into a recipe for a vanilla cake that is not only soft but also incredibly easy to make! This cake is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a birthday party, a family gathering, or just a cozy day at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be amazed at how delicious this cake turns out. Let’s get started!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to a successful baking adventure. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have everything ready, let’s walk through the steps to create your soft vanilla cake.
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake will bake evenly.
2. Prepare Your Pans
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will help the cakes come out easily once they’re baked.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together until they are well mixed.
4. Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat ½ cup of softened butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add 3 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until everything is well combined.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add in the dry ingredients you mixed earlier, alternating with 1 cup of milk. Start with the dry ingredients, then add some milk, and repeat until everything is combined. Mix until just smooth—don’t overmix!
7. Pour Into Pans
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. You can use a spatula to smooth the tops if needed.
8. Bake the Cakes
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Frost and Serve
Once cooled, you can frost the cake with your favorite frosting. A simple buttercream or whipped cream pairs perfectly with this vanilla cake!
Tips for Better Results
Here are some handy tips to ensure that your vanilla cake turns out perfectly every time:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense.
- Check for Doneness: Always check your cake a few minutes before the timer goes off; ovens can vary in temperature.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting.
- Storing: If you’re not serving the cake right away, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Variations (Optional Add-ons)
Feel free to get creative with your vanilla cake! Here are some simple variations to customize the flavor:
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter for a refreshing twist.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a chocolatey delight.
- Almond Flavor: Substitute half of the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Fruit Fillings: Layer the cake with fresh fruits or fruit preserves between the cake layers.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your vanilla cake, think about presentation! Here are some fun ideas:
- Top your cake with whipped cream and fresh berries for a colorful touch.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant look.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a classic dessert pairing.
Conclusion
And there you have it—an easy and delicious vanilla cake that is sure to impress everyone! With its soft texture and lovely flavor, this cake is perfect for any event or just as a treat for yourself. Remember, baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t hesitate to try your own twists on this recipe. Now, grab your ingredients and start baking—it’s time to enjoy a slice of homemade goodness!