Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe

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Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe

Introduction

A classic vanilla cake is the quintessential choice for celebrations, offering a perfect blend of moist texture and rich flavor. This beloved dessert, cherished for its simplicity and elegance, is a staple for birthdays and special occasions. Our detailed recipe ensures that you can create a vanilla cake that is not only delicious but also visually stunning, perfect for any festive event.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • Flour: 2 1/3 cups (300g)
  • Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
  • Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Butter, softened: 1/2 cup (120g)
  • Oil: 1/2 cup (120ml)
  • Sugar: 1½ cups (300g)
  • Eggs: 3
  • Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml), more if needed
  • Vanilla extract: 1 tablespoon

For the Frosting:

  • Butter, softened: 2/3 cup (150g)
  • Heavy cream, cold: 1/2 cup (120ml)
  • Icing sugar: 1¼ cups (160g)
  • Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
  • Cream cheese: 1¾ cups (400g)

Decoration:

  • Confetti sprinkles

Directions

Step 1: Preparing the Cake

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans with parchment paper and grease the bottoms and sides with butter or oil.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together 2 1/3 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir well to combine and set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1½ cups of sugar until light and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
  4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  5. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add 1/2 cup of oil and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat until fully combined.
  6. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the flour mixture and 1 cup of buttermilk to the batter, beginning with half of the flour mixture, followed by half of the buttermilk. Repeat this process, beating until just combined after each addition. If the batter appears too thick, add a bit more buttermilk.
  7. Divide and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5-10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Making the Frosting

  1. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat together 1¾ cups of cream cheese and 2/3 cup of softened butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Icing Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add 1¼ cups of icing sugar and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
  3. Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1/2 cup of cold heavy cream to stiff peaks.
  4. Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake

  1. Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand, flat side down. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top.
  2. Add the Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top, flat side up. Spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
  3. Decorate: Decorate the edges and top of the cake with confetti sprinkles to add a festive touch.

Step 4: Chilling and Serving

  1. Refrigerate: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the frosting to set and makes slicing easier.
  2. Serve: Slice and serve this delightful classic vanilla birthday cake to your guests, and enjoy the celebration!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg
  • Sodium: 340mg
  • Potassium: 140mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 40g
  • Vitamin A: 700 IU
  • Vitamin C: 0mg
  • Calcium: 100mg
  • Iron: 1.8mg

Conclusion

This Classic Vanilla Cake is the perfect centerpiece for any birthday celebration. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with a creamy frosting, make it a delightful treat that everyone will love. With detailed instructions and a focus on quality ingredients, this recipe ensures a successful and delicious result every time. Enjoy the process of baking and decorating, and create a memorable cake that will be the highlight of any special occasion.

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