Vanilla Cake

Vanilla Cake is a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. With its soft, fluffy layers and rich flavor, it’s perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any celebration. This recipe showcases the delightful essence of vanilla, making it a versatile choice that pairs well with various frostings and fillings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at cake-making for the first time, this Vanilla Cake recipe will guide you through every step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter, sugar, and vanilla creates a rich and sweet taste that everyone loves.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, this cake is easy to whip up anytime you crave something sweet.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for layering or as a base for various decorations and themes; this cake can be adapted for any occasion.
• Perfect Texture: Each bite offers a light and airy feel, making it an ideal treat alongside coffee or tea.
• Great for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday or holiday gathering, this Vanilla Cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to gather all necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 6-inch cake pans (3)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients, leading to a better texture in your cake.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are crucial for baking success; they help maintain balance in your batter.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down sides of bowls and folding ingredients without deflating the batter.

Ingredients

This recipe makes three 6 inch layers.

For the Cake Layers

• 2 cups cake flour (280 g)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 egg whites
• 2 sticks of butter (226 g – room temperature)
• 1 1/4 cups sugar (280 g)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 cup milk (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (125 g – room temperature)

For the Frosting

• 1 cup butter (227 g – room temperature)
• 1/2 cup shortening (Crisco) (100 g)
• 6 cups sifted powdered sugar (750 g)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla

How to Make Vanilla Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare three 6-inch cake pans by buttering and flouring them, then lining with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine all dry ingredients: cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
2. Whisk together until evenly mixed, then set aside.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together the milk, sour cream, and vanilla.
2. Set aside for later use.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using your stand mixer or handheld mixer:
1. Beat together the butter and sugar on medium speed (4) for about 3 minutes until smooth.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula as needed.

Step 5: Add Egg Whites

Whisk the egg whites in a separate bowl:
1. Slowly drizzle the egg whites into the mixture while mixing on low speed (2).
2. After all egg whites are added, increase speed to high (8) for about 1-2 minutes until fully combined.
3. Scrape down any remaining mixture from the sides of the bowl.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

On low speed:
1. Add half of the dry mixture until barely incorporated.
2. Then add half of the wet mixture; mix briefly.
3. Repeat with remaining dry ingredients followed by remaining wet ingredients.
4. Turn off the mixer; fold gently with a rubber spatula to ensure no lumps remain—do not overmix!

Step 7: Bake Cakes

Pour batter evenly into prepared pans:
– Fill each pan about one-third full.
– Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes until cakes are cooked through; check by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, they are done!

Step 8: Cool Cakes

Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 15-20 minutes:
1. Gently remove them from pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Vanilla Cake!

How to Serve Vanilla Cake

Serving vanilla cake can be a delightful experience, whether for a celebration or a simple dessert at home. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this classic treat.

Classic Slice with Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of vanilla cake topped with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice for extra creaminess and flavor enhancement.

Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

• Drizzle warm chocolate ganache over the cake for a rich and indulgent addition that pairs perfectly with vanilla.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Accompany your slice of vanilla cake with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream, adding a delightful creaminess to every bite.

Fruit Compote

• Serve the cake with homemade fruit compote made from simmered fruits like peaches or cherries, which adds a sweet-tart flavor.

Festive Sprinkles

• Top your slices with colorful sprinkles for a fun and festive touch, making it perfect for birthdays or celebrations.

How to Perfect Vanilla Cake

To achieve the best vanilla cake, consider these essential tips. They will help ensure that your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, milk, and egg whites are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. An accurate temperature is key to even baking.

• Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cakes to cool completely before applying any frosting. This prevents melting and ensures clean layers.

• Level your cakes: Trim any domed tops off your cakes once cooled. This creates even layers that stack nicely and look professional.

Best Side Dishes for Vanilla Cake

Pairing sides with vanilla cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious side dishes that complement it well:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy chocolate mousse provides an elegant contrast to the soft texture of vanilla cake.

3. Lemon Sorbet: A tangy lemon sorbet serves as a perfect palate cleanser between bites of sweet vanilla cake.

4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce enhances the flavors while providing an indulgent touch.

5. Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola sprinkled on top adds texture and an interesting flavor twist when paired with the soft cake.

6. Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream adds a tropical flair that goes wonderfully with vanilla.

7. Chia Seed Pudding: A light chia seed pudding offers health benefits while adding visual appeal alongside your dessert.

8. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti serve as excellent dippers into coffee or tea while enjoying slices of vanilla cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a perfect Vanilla Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined to prevent a dense cake. Overmixing can develop gluten, making your cake tough.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use weight measurements (grams) for precision. Improper measurements can lead to imbalanced flavors and textures.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Always line your cake pans with parchment paper to avoid sticking. This ensures easy removal and a clean presentation.
• Not checking for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. Don’t rely solely on baking time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Vanilla Cake in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Vanilla Cake

• Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vanilla Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vanilla Cake:

What can I use instead of egg whites in Vanilla Cake?

You can substitute egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) or a plant-based egg replacer.

How do I make my Vanilla Cake more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding additional vanilla extract or incorporating citrus zest into the batter.

Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg whites?

Yes, you can use whole eggs, but the texture may differ slightly. The cake may be richer and denser.

How do I frost my Vanilla Cake properly?

Ensure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting. Use a crumb coat first, then apply your final layer of frosting for a smooth finish.

How long does it take to bake a Vanilla Cake?

Typically, it takes about 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for three 6-inch layers.

Final Thoughts

This Vanilla Cake recipe is delightful and versatile, perfect for any occasion. You can customize it with different flavors or fillings such as fruit purees or chocolate ganache. Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends with a delicious homemade treat!