Traditional Vanilla Delight

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 35 min
🍽 Serves: 12
★★★★★
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Welcome to your new favorite dessert, Traditional Vanilla Delight! This classic vanilla cake is simple yet decadent, perfect for celebrating any occasion. With a moist, tender crumb and rich vanilla flavor, it's bound to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients for Traditional Vanilla Delight

The star of the show is undoubtedly the vanilla extract, which gives the cake its rich and inviting aroma. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. Butter adds richness and moisture, making the cake tender and flavorful. We use all-purpose flour as the base, providing structure and texture. Granulated sugar sweetens the cake just right, while baking powder acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the vanilla flavor. Eggs provide structure and stability, while whole milk adds moisture and softens the crumb.

Tips & Tricks

  • Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, so let the butter, eggs, and milk sit out for a bit before starting.
  • For a fluffier cake, sift the flour before measuring it.
  • Use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cakes if needed, ensuring they stack perfectly when frosted.

Serving Suggestions

This vanilla cake pairs beautifully with a fresh berry compote or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more indulgent touch, consider a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side. It's also fantastic with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for a flavor twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with 2% or even a non-dairy option like almond milk, though the texture might slightly vary.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can this recipe be made into cupcakes?
Absolutely! This batter makes about 24 standard cupcakes. Just reduce the baking time to 18-22 minutes.

Traditional Vanilla Delight Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure a smooth release later. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and sugar.

Next, add the butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the dry ingredients. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed, blend until the batter is smooth and well combined. It should take about 2-3 minutes, and you might need to scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is incorporated evenly.

Now, divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. A handy trick is to use a measuring cup or kitchen scale to ensure both pans have the same amount of batter, helping the cakes bake evenly.

Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. It's always a good idea to check a minute or two early; ovens can vary. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, you're good to go!

Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. This rest helps them firm up a bit before you transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they're completely cool, they're ready for frosting with your favorite vanilla frosting.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
  • Quick and easy preparation—ready in under an hour!
  • Satisfying vanilla flavor that shines through in every bite.
  • Perfect base for any frosting or topping of your choice.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Once completely cool, frost with your favorite vanilla frosting.

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