The Best From Scratch Vanilla Cake Recipe

If you are looking for a recipe for a vanilla cake from scratch that is easy to make this is the recipe for you. This homemade vanilla cake recipe is perfect for making a birthday cake, or any other special occasion. It is easy enough to make just because you want to enjoy some cake too! 

Homemade Vanilla Cake

If you are looking for best best vanilla cake recipe this is it. I have been making this vanilla cake recipe for years and it always turns out perfectly. If you love my vanilla cupcakes recipe then you are going to love this easy vanilla cake recipe. 

This moist vanilla cake recipe makes a delicious and tender cake with the perfect vanilla flavor, ready to be enjoyed with family and friends. Frost with your favorite flavor frosting for the perfect vanilla cake. 

Making cakes from scratch is one of my favorite things. The flavor and texture of a cake made from scratch is so much better than any cake you get at the grocery store. This from scratch vanilla cake recipe will give you a cake that is just like a freshly made bakery cake. It is so flavorful, so moist and so easy to make. It is the perfect from scratch vanilla cake recipe to make for anyone who is a beginner because it is so easy to make. If you are an expert baker you will love this recipe for a vanilla cake from scratch because it is the perfect vanilla cake recipe.

If you have never made a from scratch cake, we have included tips to help you when making this vanilla cake recipe from scratch so you have the perfect cake to enjoy. 

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What size cake does this make?

You can use this cake recipe to make sheet pan vanilla cake and bake it in a 9×13 baking dish. You can make a double layer vanilla cake by baking this recipe in two 8 inch round cake pans and you will have 2 cake layers.

What Frosting goes well with Vanilla Cake?

There are many different frosting options that pair well with vanilla cake. I prefer to use a buttercream frosting on cakes but you can also use a whipped frosting. 

• Vanilla Buttercream Frosting: A classic choice that complements the vanilla flavor of the cake. It’s sweet, creamy, and can be easily flavored with vanilla extract for an extra boost of vanilla flavor.
• chocolate buttercream frosting: The contrast of rich chocolate frosting with a vanilla cake can be delightful. It’s a great choice for those who love the combination of vanilla and chocolate.
• Lemon Buttercream: If you want to add a citrusy twist to your vanilla cake, lemon buttercream is a fantastic choice. It provides a refreshing and zesty flavor.
• Strawberry Buttercream: Strawberry-flavored frosting is perfect for a fruity twist on vanilla cake. You can use fresh or freeze-dried strawberries for flavor.
• Raspberry Buttercream: Raspberry-flavored frosting offers a sweet and slightly tart contrast to the vanilla cake. You can use fresh or frozen raspberries to infuse the frosting with flavor.
• Caramel Buttercream: Caramel frosting adds a rich and indulgent flavor to the vanilla cake. It’s great for those who enjoy a deeper, caramelized taste.
• Mocha Buttercream Frosting: For coffee lovers, mocha frosting combines coffee and chocolate flavors, making it a delightful pairing with vanilla cake.

What is the best filling for a vanilla cake?

The choice of filling for a vanilla cake largely depends on your personal preferences and the occasion. If you are making a layer cake, then you can place the filling in between the layers. Vanilla cake is a versatile base that pairs well with a variety of fillings. Here are some popular options:

Nutella or Peanut Butter. For a nutty twist, consider using Nutella or peanut butter as a filling. These spreads provide a creamy and nutty contrast to the vanilla cake.

Buttercream Frosting. A classic choice that complements the vanilla flavor of the cake. It provides a sweet and creamy filling that enhances the overall taste. You can use the same buttercream flavor that you use to frost the cake to fill it. 

Chocolate Ganache. If you love the combination of vanilla and chocolate, a smooth and rich chocolate ganache can be a delightful choice. It creates a beautiful contrast in both flavor and texture.

Fruit Preserves or Curd. Fruit preserves like raspberry, strawberry, or lemon curd can add a burst of fruity flavor to your vanilla cake. The tartness of fruit preserves pairs well with the sweetness of the cake. You can also use pie filling including homemade cherry pie filling and homemade apple pie filling.

Berries. Layering fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries with a touch of whipped cream or cream cheese filling can create a fruity and refreshing option.

Bavarian cream. Using Bavarian cream as a filling for a cake is a delightful choice that adds a creamy and luxurious layer to your dessert.

Tips for Making From Scratch Vanilla Cake

Use Quality Ingredients. Start with high-quality ingredients. Use fresh eggs, real butter, pure vanilla extract, and good-quality all-purpose flour for the best results.

Measure Ingredients Accurately. Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients, and level off dry ingredients like flour and sugar with a flat edge.

Room Temperature Ingredients. Bring eggs, butter, and milk to room temperature before using them in your recipe. Room temperature ingredients mix more easily and evenly.

Use Real Vanilla Extract. Always use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. Avoid artificial vanilla flavoring if possible.

Don’t Overmix. Overmixing can result in a tough and dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Preheat the Oven. Always preheat your oven to the specified temperature before placing the cake inside. This ensures even baking.

Cool Cakes Properly. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Can I use a Handmixer?

Yes. If you do not have a stand mixer you can use a hand mixer and a large mixing bowl to make this recipe. 

Tips for Frosting A Cake

Cool Cake. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. 

Start with a Level Cake: Ensure your cake layers are level before frosting. Trim any domed tops with a serrated knife to create an even surface.

Add the Crumb Coat First. Apply a thin layer of frosting called a “crumb coat” to seal in any cake crumbs. This helps create a smooth and clean base for your final layer of frosting. Chill the cake briefly (about 15-20 minutes) after the crumb coat to set it.

Use an Offset Spatula. An offset spatula is a versatile tool for frosting. Use it to spread and smooth the frosting evenly on the cake’s surface.

Start from the Center. Begin frosting from the center of the cake and work your way out to the edges. This helps prevent crumbs from getting mixed into the final layer.

Apply a Generous Amount. Be generous with your frosting, especially between layers. It’s better to have slightly more than you need than too little. You can always scrape off excess frosting.

Smooth the Top and Sides. To achieve a smooth finish, use your offset spatula to evenly spread the frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Hold the spatula at a slight angle and rotate the cake on a turntable for better control.

Use a Bench Scraper or Cake Comb. For super-smooth sides, use a bench scraper or cake comb. Hold the tool at an angle against the side of the cake and gently rotate the cake while scraping away excess frosting. This creates a clean, professional look.

How to Store Homemade Vanilla Cake 

Before storing the cake, make sure it has completely cooled down. 

Unfrosted: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to tightly wrap the entire cake. This helps to maintain moisture and prevents the cake from drying out. Once the cake is covered, keep it at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. Do not store it in the refrigerator. It will dry the cake out and make it taste stale. The cake will be best if eaten within 3-4 days. 

Frosted: Place the cake in the refrigerator uncovered for 15 minutes to allow the frosting to firm up, and then gently cover it with plastic wrap. If you have room in your fridge, consider using a cake keeper to further preserve its freshness. Before serving allow the cake to sit out at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Can I freeze this Cake Recipe?

Yes! This homemade cake recipe freezes perfectly. You can make the cake ahead of time and then freeze it to use and frost later or you can freeze it with the frosting on it. It will last for 2-3 months. Thaw the cake before serving. 

Unfrosted: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to tightly wrap the entire cake. This helps to maintain moisture and prevents the cake from drying out.

Frosted: To keep the pretty appearance of the frosting, place the frosted vanilla cake in the freezer without covering it until the frosting becomes completely frozen. Once frozen, wrap the cake and store it in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow the cake to thaw in the refrigerator, making sure to leave some space in the wrap to avoid direct contact with the frosting during the thawing process.

From Scratch Vanilla Cake Recipe Ingredients

• 1.5 cups self rising flour
• 1 1/4 cups cake flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 eggs

How to Make From Scratch Vanilla Cake Recipe

Heat the oven to 350.

Place the self-rising flour, cake flour, and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Mix them together on low speed for a minute or two until they are well combined.

Cut the butter into tablespoon pieces. Slowly add the butter pieces into the flour mixture one piece at a time continue mixing until you have reached the texture of sand.

Pour half of the milk into the flour mixture and mix just until the milk is incorporated. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of your bowl. Add the remaining milk and the vanilla to your batter and mix until combined.

A in the eggs one at a time while the mixer is mixing and continue to mix until the eggs are combined in the cake batter. 

Spray a cake pan with non stick spray and pour the cake batter in.

Bake for 30-35 minutes. 

Check with a toothpick by poking the toothpick in the center of the cake and when it comes out clean it is done baking.

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