Vanilla Cake

Vanilla Cake is a classic dessert that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or just a cozy gathering at home, this cake is sure to impress with its fluffy texture and rich flavor. Its versatility makes it perfect for decorating or serving plain, allowing you to personalize it for any event. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking this delightful cake is an enjoyable experience for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This Vanilla Cake recipe uses simple techniques that anyone can master, making it perfect for novice bakers.
• Delicious Flavor – The combination of butter and vanilla creates a rich taste that pairs wonderfully with a variety of frostings and fillings.
• Versatile Base – Use this cake as a canvas for your creativity by adding fruits, nuts, or your favorite frosting to customize its flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – From celebrations to casual dessert nights, this Vanilla Cake fits right in at any gathering.
• Generous Portions – This recipe yields three 6-inch layers, providing enough servings to share with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Vanilla Cake, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pans (6-inch)
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer – These tools make creaming the butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light and airy cake.
• Mixing bowls – Having multiple bowls helps keep your ingredients organized while preparing different components of the cake.
• Rubber spatula – This tool is essential for scraping down the sides of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.

Ingredients

This recipe makes three 6 inch layers.

• 2 cups cake flour (280 g)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 egg whites
• 2 sticks of butter (226 g) – room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups sugar (280 g)
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup milk (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (125 g) room temperature
• 1 cup butter (227 g) room temperature
• 1/2 cup shortening (Crisco) (100 g)
• 6 cups sifted powdered sugar (750 g)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla

How to Make Vanilla Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F/177°C. Butter and flour three 6 inch cake tins and line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine all the dry ingredients—cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisk together until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together the milk, sour cream, and vanilla. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a handheld or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula.

Step 5: Add Egg Whites

Whisk the egg whites together in a separate bowl. Slowly drizzle them into the mixture while keeping it on low speed until fully incorporated. Increase the speed to high for about 1-2 minutes until combined. The mixture may look curdled but will smooth out as you beat it. Scrape down the sides again.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

On low speed, add half of the dry mixture into the batter until barely incorporated. Follow with half of the milk mixture; mix for just a few seconds. Repeat with remaining dry ingredients followed by remaining milk mixture. Turn off mixer; use a rubber spatula to gently fold everything together without overmixing.

Step 7: Bake Cakes

Divide batter evenly among prepared pans (about one-third full). Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes until cakes are cooked through. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done.

Step 8: Cool Cakes

Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 15-20 minutes before carefully removing them from pans onto a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Vanilla Cake

Serving Vanilla Cake can be a delightful experience, whether for a celebration or a casual gathering. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance your serving options.

Classic Slice

• Serve a simple slice of vanilla cake with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.

Fruit Compote

• Pair slices with a warm fruit compote, such as berry or peach, to add a burst of flavor and color.

Whipped Cream

• Top each piece with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy texture that complements the rich cake.

Ice Cream

• Serve alongside vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a classic dessert combination that everyone loves.

Chocolate Ganache

• Drizzle chocolate ganache over the cake slices for an indulgent twist that enhances the vanilla flavor.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing and vibrant presentation.

How to Perfect Vanilla Cake

Perfecting Vanilla Cake requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure precise ingredient amounts.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid dense cake; overmixing can lead to tough texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Cool Properly: Allow cakes to cool completely in the pans before transferring them to wire racks to prevent breaking.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add different extracts or zest for unique variations on the classic vanilla flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Vanilla Cake

Vanilla Cake pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its sweetness. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to the rich cake flavor.

2. Chocolate Mousse
   A light and airy chocolate mousse creates a decadent contrast with the vanilla cake’s sweetness.

3. Lemon Sorbet
   This refreshing sorbet provides a tangy complement that cuts through the sweetness of the cake.

4. Cream Cheese Frosting
   A spread of cream cheese frosting offers tanginess that pairs beautifully with vanilla flavors.

5. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice enhances the overall taste experience with buttery richness.

6. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy biscotti can be served on the side for added texture and nutty flavor alongside your cake.

7. Coconut Whipped Topping
   A dairy-free coconut whipped topping adds creaminess while keeping it light and fluffy.

8. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy contrast that complements the soft texture of vanilla cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Vanilla Cake is an art, and avoiding common pitfalls can make all the difference.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold ingredients can affect the batter’s texture. Always ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined to keep your Vanilla Cake light and fluffy.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can dry out the cake. Use a kitchen scale or fluff the flour before spooning it into the measuring cup for accuracy.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cakes towards the end of the baking time and use a toothpick to check doneness.
• Failing to cool properly: Removing cakes too soon from pans can cause them to break. Let them cool in the pans for 15-20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Vanilla Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacked to prevent sticking.

Freezing Vanilla Cake

• Wrap individual layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Vanilla Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F/177°C. Wrap slices in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vanilla Cake:

Can I make Vanilla Cake without eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute. Typically, one egg equals 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water.

What’s the best way to frost my Vanilla Cake?

A simple buttercream frosting pairs beautifully with Vanilla Cake. Make sure your cake is completely cooled before applying frosting for best results.

How do I make my Vanilla Cake more flavorful?

Experiment by adding citrus zest or spices like cinnamon. You can also use vanilla bean paste for an extra burst of flavor alongside vanilla extract.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, but keep in mind that whole wheat flour may yield a denser cake. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for better results.

How should I store leftover Vanilla Cake?

Store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them for up to five days.

Final Thoughts

This Vanilla Cake recipe offers a delightful base that you can customize with various flavors and decorations. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Try adding fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips for a unique twist!