Fluffy Vanilla Cake Recipe

There’s something truly special about a classic vanilla cake. It’s simple yet rich, soft but sturdy, and works for any occasion—from birthdays to weekend treats. This recipe is my go-to whenever I need a foolproof, delicious cake that everyone loves.

The flavor is perfectly balanced: buttery, slightly sweet, and packed with that warm, comforting vanilla aroma.

Unlike boxed cake mixes, this homemade vanilla cake has a depth of flavor that makes it stand out. The secret? A mix of butter and oil for moisture and richness, plus a touch of sour cream to keep it ultra-soft. It’s the kind of cake that tastes just as good on its own as it does with a luscious layer of frosting.

Whether you’re making it for a celebration or just because you’re craving a slice of something sweet, this recipe won’t let you down. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and guarantees a light, fluffy crumb every time. Let’s get baking!

Tips For a Better Vanilla Cake

• Don’t overmix! Once the flour is added, mix only until combined to avoid a dense cake.
• Use parchment paper to line your pans for easy removal.
• Measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
• For extra vanilla flavor, add vanilla bean paste instead of extract.
• Want a taller cake? Use 8-inch cake pans instead of 9-inch ones and increase baking time slightly.

Why You Need to Try This Vanilla Cake Recipe

I’ve made this vanilla cake more times than I can count, and it never disappoints! It’s buttery, moist, and has the perfect balance of sweetness. Unlike store-bought cakes, this one has a homemade touch that just tastes better. The texture is so light and fluffy, yet it holds up beautifully to any frosting or filling. Once you try this, you’ll never go back to boxed cake mix again!

This vanilla cake recipe is a true classic—moist, fluffy, and packed with rich vanilla flavor. It’s easy to make and perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because! Whether enjoyed plain or with frosting, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

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Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe

This homemade vanilla cake recipe is soft, fluffy, and packed with rich vanilla flavor. Perfect for birthdays or any celebration, it's easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword sweet treats

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes minutes

Total Time 55 minutes minutes

Servings 12 Slices

Calories 350kcal

Equipment

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula (for frosting)

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups 315g all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup 226g unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup 60ml vegetable oil
• 1 3/4 cups 350g granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup 240ml whole milk room temperature
• 1/4 cup 60g sour cream

For the Frosting (Optional):

• 1 cup 226g unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups 480g powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

• Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, oil, and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). This step helps incorporate air for a fluffy texture.
• Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Incorporate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk, starting and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix! Fold in the sour cream for extra tenderness.
• Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
• Make the Frosting: Beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and fluffy.
• Assemble: Spread frosting over one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the entire cake. Decorate as desired!

Notes

If you prefer a more delicate cake, use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.

This cake pairs well with fruit fillings or chocolate ganache for a fun twist.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

This vanilla cake recipe is a true classic—moist, fluffy, and packed with rich vanilla flavor. It’s easy to make and perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because! Whether enjoyed plain or with frosting, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.