Vanilla Layer Cake

A Vanilla Layer Cake is the perfect dessert for any celebration. With its moist and tender layers, this cake stands out with its rich vanilla flavor and delightful buttercream frosting. Whether it’s a birthday party or a holiday gathering, this cake fits in beautifully. Its versatility and simplicity make it a go-to recipe for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This one-bowl recipe simplifies the baking process, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of real vanilla extract and buttermilk gives this cake an incredibly rich taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or casual gatherings, you can dress it up or down to suit any event.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the buttermilk and egg whites, each slice offers a moist and fluffy bite that melts in your mouth.
• Customizable Design: Feel free to add gel food coloring or unique decorations to make your Vanilla Layer Cake truly your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Vanilla Layer Cake, gather the necessary tools and equipment to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 8-inch round cake pans (3)
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing batter effortless and ensures even blending of ingredients for a consistent texture.
• 8-inch round cake pans: Ideal for creating perfectly uniform layers that stack beautifully when assembled.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the cake layers, preventing sogginess while they cool.

Ingredients

A moist and tender vanilla cake made in one bowl, with three perfect layers and rich vanilla buttercream frosting.

For the Cake

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (375g)
• 3 cups granulated sugar (600g)
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder (10g)
• 1 tsp fine salt (6g)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temp (226g)
• 1 cup egg whites (240g, about 7 eggs)
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk, room temp (360g)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (30g)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract (8g)
• Optional: gel food coloring

For the Buttercream Frosting

• 2 cups unsalted butter, room temp (452g)
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract or paste (12g)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
• 7 cups powdered sugar (875g)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (60g)

How to Make Vanilla Layer Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 350°F. Line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper or grease them well.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In your stand mixer bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and fine salt. Mix on low until well blended.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

Add the unsalted butter into the dry mixture. Mix on medium speed until the mixture resembles sandy crumbs.

Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Buttermilk

Gradually add in the egg whites followed by buttermilk. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Blend in Oil and Vanilla

Pour in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Beat at medium speed for about one minute until smooth.

Step 6: Divide Batter Between Pans

Carefully divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.

Step 7: Bake Layers

Place the pans in the preheated oven. Bake for 33-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Cakes

Once baked, let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Chill in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 9: Prepare Buttercream Frosting

In a clean stand mixer bowl, beat room temperature unsalted butter until smooth.

Step 10: Add Vanilla and Salt

Add vanilla extract and salt to the butter.

Step 11: Gradually Add Sugar

Slowly incorporate powdered sugar into the mixture until fully combined.

Step 12: Mix with Heavy Cream

Finally, add heavy cream and beat until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 13: Level Cake Layers

Once cooled, use a serrated knife to level off any domed tops of each layer for even stacking.

Step 14: Assemble Cake

Stack layers of cake with a generous amount of buttercream between each layer.

Step 15: Crumb Coat

Apply a thin layer of buttercream around the entire cake as a crumb coat. Chill briefly in the refrigerator.

Step 16: Final Coat

After chilling, apply a final coat of buttercream over your Vanilla Layer Cake. Decorate as desired!

Enjoy every delicious slice of your homemade Vanilla Layer Cake!

How to Serve Vanilla Layer Cake

Serving a delicious Vanilla Layer Cake is all about presentation and pairing it with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative ideas to enhance your serving experience.

Classic with a Twist

• Fresh Berries: Top each slice with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of flavor.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the cake.

Celebratory Additions

• Candles: Perfect for birthdays, add colorful candles on top to brighten up the cake and make a wish!
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the cake creates an elegant touch that also enhances flavor.

Seasonal Touches

• Citrus Zest: Garnish with lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrus note to balance the sweetness.
• Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only looks appealing but also adds a hint of freshness.

How to Perfect Vanilla Layer Cake

To achieve the best results when making your Vanilla Layer Cake, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality vanilla extract or paste to elevate the flavor profile of your cake.
• Bold Mixing Technique: Ensure you mix the batter just until combined to avoid overworking the flour, which can make the cake dense.
• Bold Temperature Check: Always use room temperature ingredients; this helps create an even batter and ensures proper mixing.
• Bold Cooling Method: Cool your cakes in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to prevent dryness.
• Bold Frosting Application: Use a crumb coat before applying the final layer of frosting. This helps trap any loose crumbs and gives a smooth finish.

Best Side Dishes for Vanilla Layer Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Vanilla Layer Cake can create an unforgettable dessert experience. Here are some complementary options:

1. Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream adds creaminess and temperature contrast.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
3. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances flavors and makes for a comforting pairing.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like mascarpone or cream cheese for a savory contrast.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dipping pieces of cake into warm chocolate fondue can make dessert even more indulgent.
6. Meringue Cookies: Light and airy meringues complement the moistness of the cake beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a vanilla layer cake, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Being aware of these mistakes can help you achieve the perfect cake.

• Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake. Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for optimal mixing.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can develop gluten, resulting in a tough texture. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy vanilla layer cake.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements to ensure consistent results every time.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting the cake while it’s still warm can lead to crumbling. Allow layers to cool completely before frosting for a neat presentation.

• Using Unsuitable Pans: The type of baking pan matters. Always use good-quality, non-stick pans and line them properly to prevent sticking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover vanilla layer cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• For added protection, wrap slices tightly with plastic wrap.

Freezing Vanilla Layer Cake

• Freeze individual layers or assembled cakes.
• Wrap each layer in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
• Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Vanilla Layer Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a covered skillet over low heat for several minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vanilla layer cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the layers up to two days in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them as needed.

How do I customize my vanilla layer cake?

You can add different flavors like lemon or almond extract, or incorporate fruits and nuts into the batter for unique variations.

What is the best way to decorate a vanilla layer cake?

Use buttercream frosting between layers and on top. Fresh fruit, sprinkles, or chocolate shavings make great decorative additions!

Why is my vanilla layer cake dry?

A dry cake may result from overbaking or not using enough moisture-rich ingredients like buttermilk. Keep an eye on bake times!

Final Thoughts

This vanilla layer cake recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. With its moist layers and rich buttercream frosting, it’s perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to celebrations. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite flavors or decorations! Give this delightful dessert a try; you won’t be disappointed!