Perfect Vanilla Cake for Decorating
A classic vanilla cake with a delicate flavor and sturdy texture, ideal for layering and decorating with your favorite frostings and designs.
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1.75 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1.25 cups milk room temperature
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans. - Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. - Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. - Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract. - Step 5: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients
Reduce mixer speed to low. Add dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with milk in two parts, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. - Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. - Step 7: Cool Completely
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Notes
Use room temperature eggs, butter, and milk for even mixing. Do not overmix after adding flour to prevent dense cake. For perfectly flat layers, trim domed tops with a serrated knife before stacking and frosting.
