Vanilla Cake

Vanilla Cake is a classic dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and flavor, making it ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or any sweet craving. This delightful cake features layers of moist vanilla goodness that can be dressed up with your favorite frosting or enjoyed simply on its own. Its versatility and scrumptious taste make it a favorite among bakers and dessert lovers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions ensure anyone can bake a perfect cake.
• Deliciously Moist: The combination of sour cream and butter creates a rich, moist texture that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile Flavor: While this recipe shines on its own, it pairs wonderfully with various frostings and fillings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or an afternoon tea, this Vanilla Cake fits right in.
• Impressive Layers: Baking three layers gives you the opportunity to create stunning presentations for any event.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of baking Vanilla Cake, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your process and yield the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-inch cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Handheld or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Handheld or stand mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down bowl sides to ensure even mixing.

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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 tins by buttering and flouring them, then lining them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
1. Combine cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
2. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Milk
2. Sour cream
3. Vanilla
Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a handheld or stand mixer with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat together the butter and sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
2. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically with a spatula.

Step 5: Add Egg Whites

Whisk the egg whites in a separate bowl:
1. Slowly drizzle egg whites into the creamed butter mixture while keeping it on low speed until all are added.
2. Increase speed to high for about 1-2 minutes until well combined; it may look curdled but will smooth out as you beat it.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

On low speed:
1. Gradually add half of the dry ingredients until barely incorporated.
2. Follow with half of the milk mixture, mixing briefly before adding remaining dry ingredients.
3. Add remaining milk mixture last; turn off mixer and gently fold with a rubber spatula to combine without overmixing.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Pour batter evenly into prepared pans:
1. Fill each pan about one-third full.
2. Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes until cakes are cooked through; check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool Cakes

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

With this Vanilla Cake recipe, you will impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy every delicious slice!

How to Serve Vanilla Cake

Serving vanilla cake can be a delightful experience, and there are numerous ways to present it that will impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your vanilla cake.

Classic Slice

• Serve a simple slice of vanilla cake on its own for those who enjoy the pure flavor of this classic dessert.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an extra creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with vanilla flavors.

Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

• Drizzle warm chocolate ganache over the cake slices for a rich and decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.

Ice Cream Side

• Serve a slice alongside a scoop of vanilla or any fruit-flavored ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast and added creaminess.

Layered Parfait

• Crumble pieces of vanilla cake and layer them in a glass with yogurt and fruit for an elegant parfait presentation that can be served as breakfast or dessert.

How to Perfect Vanilla Cake

Perfecting your vanilla cake involves attention to detail in both preparation and baking. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out flawlessly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature butter, eggs, and milk mix better, creating a smoother batter that leads to a fluffier cake.
• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and other dry ingredients helps aerate them, which results in a lighter texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake due to gluten development.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated. An oven thermometer can help you verify the actual temperature for accurate baking.
• Cool Cakes Properly: Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 15-20 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This prevents sogginess from steam buildup.

Best Side Dishes for Vanilla Cake

Pairing side dishes with your vanilla cake can enhance its overall presentation and taste. Here are some delightful options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness that contrasts nicely with the sweet cake.
2. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats provide a tropical twist that complements the vanilla flavor perfectly.
3. Chocolate Chip Cookies
   Classic cookies offer a nostalgic pairing, providing both texture and flavor variety alongside the soft cake.
4. Caramel Sauce
   A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce adds richness and depth, enhancing every bite of the vanilla cake.
5. Lemon Curd
   Tart lemon curd provides a refreshing contrast that cuts through the sweetness, making each bite more balanced.
6. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is always a favorite, adding an extra layer of smoothness when served alongside the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Vanilla Cake, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Incorrect ingredient measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients and measuring cups for liquids to ensure precision.
• Overmixing the batter: Avoid overmixing after adding the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Using cold ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially butter, milk, and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter.
• Not checking for doneness: Rely on the toothpick test to check if your cake is done baking. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
• Skipping cooling time: Allow your cakes to cool completely before removing them from the pans. This prevents them from breaking apart.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Vanilla Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vanilla Cake

• Wrap individual layers tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vanilla Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds per slice for quick warming.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes to warm through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vanilla Cake.

Can I substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour. However, it may result in a denser cake.

How can I make my Vanilla Cake more moist?

Adding additional sour cream or using buttermilk instead of regular milk can enhance moisture levels in your Vanilla Cake.

Can I add flavors other than vanilla?

Absolutely! You can experiment with almond extract or citrus zest to give your Vanilla Cake a unique twist.

What is the best way to frost my Vanilla Cake?

A simple buttercream frosting pairs wonderfully with Vanilla Cake. Ensure it’s smooth and spreadable by mixing well at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

This Vanilla Cake recipe is simple yet versatile, perfect for any occasion. Whether you want to enjoy it plain or customize it with different flavors or frostings, this cake is bound to impress everyone at your table. Try it out and discover how delightful homemade Vanilla Cake can be!