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Classic Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe

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4.2 from 3 reviews

This classic vanilla cake recipe is perfect for any celebration, delivering a moist and tender crumb with a rich buttery flavor. Easy to make and ideal for birthday parties, anniversaries, or festive gatherings.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the cakes evenly.
  2. Prepare Pans: Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent the cakes from sticking to the pans after baking.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This incorporates air, which helps the cake rise.
  4. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated and the batter stays smooth.
  5. Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract to add a fragrant, sweet vanilla flavor to the cake batter.
  6. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
  7. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently after each addition to maintain the batter’s lightness.
  8. Pour Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
  10. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting or serving.

Notes

  • Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
  • Do not overmix the batter once you add the flour to avoid developing gluten and a dense cake.
  • Use fresh baking powder for best rising results.
  • If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
  • Allow cakes to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/classic-vanilla-layer-cake-recipe/