The Ultimate Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe

Delight in the simplicity and richness of this Classic Vanilla Cake, where fluffy layers meet a smooth vanilla buttercream frosting. Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any celebration!

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cake:

• Flour: 2 ½ cups
• Baking Powder: 2 ½ tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (softened)
• Granulated Sugar: 2 cups
• Eggs: 4 (large)
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tbsp
• Buttermilk: 1 cup

For the Vanilla Buttercream:

• Egg Whites: 4
• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
• Unsalted Butter: 1 ½ cups (cubed and softened)
• Vanilla Extract: 2 tsp

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

4. Add Eggs: Lower the speed and add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.

5. Combine Flour and Buttermilk: Gradually add the flour mixture and buttermilk alternately, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Fully incorporate each addition.

6. Bake: Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack until completely cooled.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Buttercream

1. Combine Egg Whites and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine egg whites and sugar. Whisk until combined.

2. Heat Mixture: Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, whisking constantly until the mixture is hot and no longer grainy (about 3 minutes, or use a candy thermometer to check for 160°F).

3. Whip the Meringue: Remove the bowl from heat and beat on medium-high speed until the meringue is stiff and cool (about 5-10 minutes).

4. Add Butter: Switch to the paddle attachment. Gradually add the cubed butter and mix until smooth.

5. Finish with Vanilla: Add the vanilla extract and whip until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the Cakes: Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread approximately 1 cup of buttercream on top.

2. Add Second Layer: Place the second layer on top and apply a crumb coat. Chill for 20 minutes.

3. Frost the Cake: Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream, smoothing it out as desired.

4. Decorate: Optionally, use sprinkles or a decorating comb for texture. Pipe rosettes on top with leftover frosting for a decorative touch.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending.
• Proper Measurements: Measure flour by spooning it into a cup and leveling off with a knife to prevent dense cakes.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix flour just until incorporated to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Cool Properly: Cool cakes completely before applying frosting to prevent melting.

Trouble-free baking leads to a delightful outcome! This Classic Vanilla Cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy making this deliciously tender cake that brings joy to every celebration!