The vanilla cake is a beloved classic that has graced countless birthdays, celebrations, and dessert tables around the world. Its simplicity allows the rich flavor of vanilla to shine through, making it a favorite for many. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, making a vanilla cake from scratch is a rewarding experience that yields delicious results.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
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Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combining:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender cake.
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Baking:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Smooth the tops with a spatula to even out the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cooling and Assembly:
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
- Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cakes, then carefully invert them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Cake:
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This helps them blend together smoothly and evenly.
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Quality Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. Avoid imitation vanilla, as it won't provide the same depth of flavor.
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Do Not Overmix: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a tender crumb.
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Even Cake Layers: To ensure even cake layers, weigh the batter or use a measuring cup to divide it evenly between the pans.
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Cooling Before Frosting: Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Frosting Options:
While a classic vanilla cake is delicious on its own, frosting can take it to the next level. Here are a few frosting options to consider:
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Vanilla Buttercream:
- Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened), 4 cups powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2-4 tablespoons milk or cream.
- Instructions: Beat the butter until creamy, gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla and milk until smooth and creamy.
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Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened), 8 oz cream cheese (softened), 4 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Instructions: Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth, gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla until creamy.
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Chocolate Ganache:
- Ingredients: 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, 1 cup heavy cream.
- Instructions: Heat cream until just boiling, pour over chopped chocolate, let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
A vanilla cake is more than just a simple dessert; it's a symbol of celebration, tradition, and comfort. With its delicate crumb and rich vanilla flavor, it's a cake that appeals to young and old alike. Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or dressed up with frosting, the classic vanilla cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. So why not try making one from scratch? With the right ingredients, a bit of patience, and a whole lot of love, you'll have a homemade vanilla cake that rivals any bakery offering. Happy baking!