Vanilla Layer Cake with Creamy Vanilla Frosting
Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites
Indulge in the delightful layers of this Vanilla Layer Cake, beautifully frosted with a creamy vanilla frosting that melts in your mouth.
This Vanilla Layer Cake is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. With its light and fluffy texture and rich vanilla flavor, it’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich vanilla flavor that brings joy in every bite
- Fluffy cake layers paired with creamy frosting
- A stunning centerpiece for any occasion
The Perfect Celebration Cake
Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion, this Vanilla Layer Cake is the ultimate showstopper. Its three fluffy layers not only create a stunning visual appeal but also offer a delightful texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. The elegance of this cake makes it suitable for both casual gatherings and formal celebrations, impressing guests of all ages.
With its rich vanilla flavor, each slice offers a taste of nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood birthdays and family gatherings. The creamy frosting adds an extra touch of indulgence, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. This cake is more than just dessert; it's a way to create lasting memories with loved ones.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your Vanilla Layer Cake is a resounding success, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even slight variations can impact the final result. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour, to achieve the perfect cake texture.
Another key tip is to let your butter soften to room temperature before creaming it with sugar. This step is crucial for creating a light and fluffy batter. Additionally, be careful not to overmix once you add the flour mixture. Mixing just until combined will help maintain the cake's airy structure.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once your Vanilla Layer Cake is beautifully frosted, you may wonder how to store it for optimal freshness. Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
For a delightful twist, consider serving slices with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Adding seasonal berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your cake experience, making it even more enjoyable. This versatility allows you to adapt the dessert to various tastes and occasions effortlessly.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Instructions
Prepare Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat on low speed until combined. Add vanilla and heavy cream, adjusting the cream to reach your desired consistency.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and repeat the process.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy your homemade Vanilla Layer Cake!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Exploring Vanilla Variations
While this recipe showcases the classic vanilla flavor, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Consider adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter for a unique twist. These subtle variations can elevate your cake, introducing new flavor profiles that pair beautifully with the creaminess of the frosting.
If you're a chocolate lover, you might think about swirling in some cocoa powder into the frosting or even creating a chocolate ganache layer between the cake layers. This gives the cake a decadent upgrade while still maintaining the beloved vanilla base.
Perfect Pairings
This Vanilla Layer Cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic touch, serve it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm cup of tea. The rich flavors of the cake balance well with the warmth of these beverages, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
For those who prefer something a little more festive, a glass of sparkling wine or champagne brings an elegant touch to the dessert. The bubbles and acidity will cut through the sweetness of the cake, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature.
→ Can I use a different flavor of frosting?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chocolate, cream cheese, or even fruit-flavored frostings.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Vanilla Layer Cake with Creamy Vanilla Frosting
Indulge in the delightful layers of this Vanilla Layer Cake, beautifully frosted with a creamy vanilla frosting that melts in your mouth.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Classic Bakery Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat on low speed until combined. Add vanilla and heavy cream, adjusting the cream to reach your desired consistency. Beat until fluffy and smooth.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and repeat the process. Finally, place the third layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy your homemade Vanilla Layer Cake!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g