Vanilla Cake With Butter Frosting

Name: Vanilla Cake With Butter Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

When I first discovered the joy of baking, this Vanilla Cake With Butter Frosting quickly became my go-to recipe. The delicate aroma of vanilla fills my kitchen as it bakes, creating a comforting atmosphere. The combination of the light, airy cake and the rich, buttery frosting brought smiles on every occasion, from family gatherings to quiet weekends. I can't help but love how simple ingredients come together to create something that feels so special. This cake is perfect for any celebration, or even just to enjoy with a cup of coffee!

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-14T23:45:35.914Z

Baking this Vanilla Cake With Butter Frosting is an experience I cherish deeply. I remember my first attempt, and how thrilled I was when the cake rose beautifully in the oven, filling the house with its sweet smell. It truly is a showstopper! The frosting, made with high-quality butter and just a touch of cream, adds a silky finish that elevates every slice. Combining flavors solidifies this cake as a favorite.

One tip I've learned is to ensure your butter is at room temperature for the frosting; it makes all the difference in texture and sweetness. I also love to add a splash of vanilla extract to the cake batter, enhancing the flavor profile. It’s little details like these that turn a simple cake into a masterpiece!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich vanilla flavor that delights the senses
Fluffy texture paired with creamy, buttery frosting
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or as an everyday treat

Understanding Your Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Vanilla Cake plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The all-purpose flour provides the structure needed, while the baking powder ensures that the cake rises beautifully. It's essential to use fresh baking powder for optimal lift; if it's expired, the cake may turn out dense. The unsalted butter, when creamed, contributes a rich flavor and a fluffy texture, making it a key player in this cake's success.

Sugar not only sweetens the batter but also helps to aerate when creamed with butter, which contributes to the cake's lightness. When selecting milk, opt for whole milk for a richer flavor; however, you can substitute it with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk if desired. Just keep in mind that these substitutes may slightly alter the cake's moistness and flavor profile.

Perfecting Your Technique

The creaming method is vital for a fluffy Vanilla Cake. Make sure to cream the butter and sugar until the mixture is noticeably lighter in color and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer on medium speed. Don't rush this step; it's where the cake's texture starts to develop. Avoid overmixing once you combine wet and dry ingredients to ensure that the cake doesn't become tough; mix just until you see no dry flour.

When baking, keep a close eye on the cakes towards the end of the baking time. Each oven is different, so start checking for doneness at 25 minutes if this is your first time baking this recipe. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If the cakes domed overly high, it may be a sign of overmixing; in future batches, consider reducing your mixing time or scaling down the baking powder slightly.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
3 large eggs

For the Butter Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together to ensure even distribution.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cakes cool, prepare the butter frosting by creaming the butter until smooth, then gradually mixing in the powdered sugar. Add heavy cream and vanilla, and beat until fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread frosting on top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve your delicious Vanilla Cake With Butter Frosting to your friends and family!

Pro Tips

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results, especially the butter and eggs. This helps the cake rise better and achieve a soft texture.

Storage Tips

To keep your Vanilla Cake fresh after baking, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent it from drying out. Stored properly at room temperature, the unfrosted cake can last up to three days. If you want to extend its life, consider refrigerating it, where it can stay fresh for about a week, but be aware that refrigeration may affect the cake's moisture.

You can also freeze your Vanilla Cake for longer storage. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, which can keep the cake good for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before frosting for the best flavor and texture.

Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the classic Vanilla Cake, consider experimenting with flavor variations. Adding lemon zest or almond extract can give a delightful twist, enhancing the flavor profile beautifully. You can also fold in chocolate chips or berries into the batter for an extra burst of flavor. If you're looking for a bit of crunch, nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition to the cake mix.

For a more decadent treat, transform this cake into a layered creation by adding fruit preserves or a flavored mousse between the layers before frosting. Chocolate ganache can also elevate this butter frosting for those who love the chocolate and vanilla combination. These variations allow you to personalize the cake for any celebration or simply to satisfy your cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, cake flour will create an even lighter and more tender cake.

→ How can I make the frosting less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar and add more cream to balance the sweetness.

→ Can I add fruit to this cake recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh berries or sliced bananas can be added to the batter for a fruity twist.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.