Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe

Classic Vanilla Cake is a timeless dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. Its simplicity and versatility make it a popular choice for various occasions, from birthdays to weddings. The key ingredient, vanilla, provides a delicate and aromatic flavor that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Vanilla itself has a long history and originates from the pods of the vanilla orchid, native to Mexico. The Aztecs are believed to have been the first to cultivate vanilla. When European explorers brought vanilla back to Europe, it became a prized and sought-after flavor.

The combination of vanilla with cake likely evolved over time as vanilla became more widely available. The sweet and aromatic flavor of vanilla was incorporated into cakes to enhance their taste. By the 19th century, vanilla cake recipes started appearing in cookbooks.

Vanilla cake gained even more popularity in the 20th century with the widespread availability of vanilla extract and the development of commercial baking powder, which contributed to the light and fluffy texture associated with classic vanilla cakes.

A Classic Vanilla Cake typically includes flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, and vanilla extract. The ingredients are combined to create a smooth batter that is then baked to perfection. The result is a light and fluffy cake with a golden-brown crust.

Vanilla cake serves as a blank canvas for creativity, allowing for various frostings, fillings, and decorations to be added. Whether paired with a classic buttercream frosting, a rich chocolate ganache, or a fruity compote, vanilla cake can be customized to suit any preference.

Its widespread popularity is a testament to its comforting and familiar taste, making it a go-to choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a more elaborate dessert, vanilla cake continues to be a beloved treat that brings joy to those who savor its timeless flavor.

Here is a recipe of Classic Vanilla Cake:

You can read some more Indian dessert recipe:

1. Pootharekulu Recipe | Rice Paper Dessert From Andhra
2. Sweet Chakkara Pongali | Sakkarai Pongal
3. Chhena Poda Recipe | Traditional Odia Recipe

Ingredients of Classic Vanilla Cake:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 
• ½ cup vegetable oil or avocado oil 
• 1 ½ cup granulated sugar 
• 4 large eggs room temperature preferred
• 1Tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour 
• 1 Tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cup buttermilk (room temperature preferred)

Instructions of Making Classic Vanilla Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350F (177C). Take two deep 8" round cake pans and lightly grease the sides and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Set aside.
• Take the butter, canola oil and sugar In the bowl of a stand mixer (or in a large bowl using an electric mixer)and cream together until creamy and well-combined. 
• Add eggs, one at a time, beat it until thoroughly combined after addition of each egg.
• Stir in vanilla extract.
• Whisk together flour, baking powder and salt in a separate, medium-sized bowl.
• Add flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture alternately using a spatula and gently hand-mixing, start and end with flour mixture and mix it until just combined after each addition. The batter should be thoroughly combined, but there may be some small lumps in the batter and avoid over-mixing (and do not use your electric mixer or stand mixer for this step).
• Divide batter evenly into your prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes on 350F (175C). The surface should spring back to the touch when the cake is done. To check whether the cake is ready or not, insert a toothpick in the center and if it comes out mostly clean or with few moist crumbs (no wet batter), your cake is ready.
• Allow your cakes to cool for 10-15 minutes in their cake pans. After 10-15 minutes, Invert your cake onto cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.

Frost or Decorate:

• Once the cakes are completely cool, you can frost or decorate them with your favorite frosting or toppings.

Serving of Vanilla Cake:

• Slice and serve this classic vanilla cake as is or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.

Enjoy your delicious classic vanilla cake!

 Recipe Card

Cuisine: American, Course: Cake, Dessert, Prep Time: 30 minutes, Cook Time: 35minutes, Total Time: 1hour 5 minutes, Servings: 12 slices