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A slice of fluffy plain vanilla cake with smooth white buttercream frosting on a white plate, next to a whole frosted two-layer cake.

Plain Vanilla Cake Recipe

This classic Plain Vanilla Cake recipe yields a moist and fluffy cake, perfect for any occasion. It's straightforward to prepare and provides a delicious base for your favorite frosting.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/2 cup all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened
  • 2 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk at room temperature

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the pure vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined after each addition; do not overmix.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
  8. Remove cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Once completely cool, frost as desired with your favorite vanilla buttercream or other frosting.

Notes

For best results, ensure all cold ingredients like butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, emulsified batter and a tender cake. Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added, as this can lead to a tough cake.