Vanilla Cake

Vanilla Cake is a classic dessert that brings joy to any occasion, from birthday parties to family gatherings. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with the rich flavor of vanilla, makes it a favorite among many. Whether you are celebrating a special event or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this Vanilla Cake is sure to impress. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be dressed up with frosting or enjoyed as is.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter and vanilla creates a delightful taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile: This Vanilla Cake can be customized with various frostings and fillings, making it suitable for any celebration.
• Perfect Texture: The cake layers are moist and airy, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or casual get-together, this cake fits perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Before beginning your baking adventure, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 6-inch cake tins
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Handheld Mixer: These make beating ingredients easy and ensure your batter is mixed thoroughly without much effort.
• Rubber Spatula: Perfect for scraping down bowls and folding in ingredients without overmixing your batter.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Vanilla Cake.

Ingredients

This recipe makes three 6 inch layers.

For the Cake

• 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 the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine all the dry ingredients:
1. Measure out the cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
2. Whisk them together until well blended. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Step 5: Add Egg Whites

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk the egg whites until frothy using a fork.
2. Gradually drizzle them into the butter-sugar mixture while keeping the mixer on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Increase to high speed for about 1-2 minutes until well combined (the mixture may look curdled but will smooth out).

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients & Milk Mixture

On low speed:
1. Add half of your dry ingredients to the mixing bowl just until barely incorporated.
2. Next, add half of your milk mixture and mix briefly before adding remaining dry ingredients followed by remaining milk mixture.
3. Turn off the mixer and gently fold in any remaining flour with a rubber spatula while being careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Bake Your Cakes

Pour equal amounts of batter into each prepared pan (about one-third full).
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes.
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re done!

Step 8: Cool Cakes

Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 15-20 minutes.
Gently remove them from pans and place them on wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Enjoy creating your Vanilla Cake masterpiece!

How to Serve Vanilla Cake

Vanilla cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you are hosting a party or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your vanilla cake experience.

Classic Vanilla Cake Slice

• A simple slice of vanilla cake is always a hit. Serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Fresh Fruit Topping

• Top your vanilla cake with seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The freshness complements the sweetness perfectly.

Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on each slice for added richness. You can also flavor the cream with vanilla extract for an extra kick.

Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

• Drizzle warm chocolate ganache over the cake for a decadent twist. This combination of flavors is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve slices of vanilla cake alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream. The contrast in textures makes for a delightful treat.

Layered with Jam

• Spread a layer of fruit jam between the cake layers or on top for added flavor. Raspberry or apricot jam works wonderfully with vanilla.

How to Perfect Vanilla Cake

To achieve the perfect vanilla cake, consider these essential tips that will help you create a moist and flavorful dessert every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature ensures better mixing and texture.

• Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense cake.

• Measure accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially with flour and sugar, to achieve consistent results.

• Check oven temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.

• Cool properly: Let your cakes cool completely before frosting them. This prevents melting and sliding of frosting.

• Experiment with flavors: Try adding almond extract or citrus zest along with vanilla to create unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Vanilla Cake

Pairing side dishes with your vanilla cake can enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Coffee – A hot cup of coffee pairs beautifully with vanilla cake, complementing its sweetness with rich flavors.

2. Tea – Serve with herbal or black tea for a cozy afternoon treat; chamomile adds a soothing touch.

3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of fruits provides a light contrast to the sweet vanilla cake.

4. Cheese Platter – Soft cheeses like mascarpone or cream cheese make excellent accompaniments, balancing sweetness.

5. Chocolate Mousse – For those who love chocolate, this rich dessert paired with vanilla cake creates an indulgent experience.

6. Pudding – A creamy pudding like butterscotch or caramel can enhance the vanilla flavor while adding moisture.

7. Custard Sauce – Pour warm custard over slices of vanilla cake for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

8. Ice Cream Sundae Bar – Set up an ice cream sundae station; guests can customize their desserts alongside 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 use room temperature eggs, butter, and milk. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Be gentle when mixing. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy one.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing flour into the measuring cup, which can lead to dry cake.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15-20 minutes before removing them. This prevents breakage.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven. An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate baking temperatures.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover vanilla cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vanilla Cake

• Wrap individual layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.

Reheating Vanilla Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat slices for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat with a lid on, warming for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Vanilla Cake recipe special?

This vanilla cake recipe is special due to its moist texture and rich flavor from using both butter and sour cream.

Can I customize my Vanilla Cake?

Absolutely! You can add different extracts or mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit for unique flavors.

How do I prevent my Vanilla Cake from rising unevenly?

Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature and that you level your batter evenly across the pans.

What frosting pairs best with Vanilla Cake?

A classic buttercream frosting complements vanilla cake beautifully, but cream cheese frosting also adds a nice tangy contrast.

Final Thoughts

This vanilla cake recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for any occasion and can be customized with various flavors or toppings. Give it a try, and enjoy baking this delightful treat!