Vanilla Cake Recipe – Soft, Fluffy & Perfect Layer Cake
This vanilla cake is light, soft, and perfectly fluffy with a rich buttery flavor. Paired with smooth buttercream frosting, this classic vanilla layer cake is ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or any special occasion.
Vanilla Cake Ingredients (Two 8-Inch Layers)
- 2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 2 1/2 teaspoons (12g) baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt
- 2 teaspoons (10ml) vanilla extract
Buttercream Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
- 3–4 tablespoons (45–60ml) milk or cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons (7ml) vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Decoration
- Rainbow sprinkles (as needed)
How to Make Vanilla Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Mix Batter
Add the dry ingredients to the batter alternately with milk. Mix just until smooth—do not overmix.
Step 6: Bake
Divide batter evenly between pans and level the tops.
Bake until golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool
Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
How to Make Buttercream Frosting
- Beat butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and mix well.
- Add vanilla extract, salt, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving board.
- Spread a generous layer of buttercream on top.
- Add the second cake layer.
- Frost the top and sides evenly.
- Decorate with rainbow sprinkles.
Tips for the Best Vanilla Cake
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing
- Avoid overmixing to keep the cake soft and fluffy
- Chill slightly before slicing for clean layers
