Vanilla Cake

Here’s a classic vanilla cake recipe that’s light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion:

Classic Vanilla Cake

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes) using an electric mixer.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture.
   • Beat until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Pour Batter and Bake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Frost:
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
   • Frost with your favorite vanilla frosting or enjoy plain.

Vanilla Frosting (optional)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3–4 cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Cream Butter:
   • In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla:
   • Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
   • Add vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of cream or milk. Beat until light and fluffy. Adjust consistency with additional cream or powdered sugar if needed.
3. Frost Cake:
   • Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly on top and around the sides.

Enjoy your homemade vanilla cake!