This recipe yields a classic, moist vanilla cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (optional, for extra richness)
- For the Frosting (optional):
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until well combined and light in color.
- Add wet ingredients: Beat in the milk and vanilla extract (and buttermilk, if using) until just combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Frost (optional): Once the cakes are completely cool, frost with your favorite frosting.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use melted butter instead of softened butter.
- To make a lemon cake, add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to the batter.
- For a chocolate cake, add 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Get creative with frostings! Try chocolate, cream cheese, or even a simple powdered sugar glaze.
Enjoy your delicious homemade vanilla cake!