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Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

A homemade vanilla cake slathered with creamy buttercream frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour If you're gluten-free, consider using a gluten-free baking blend.
  • 1.5 cups Granulated sugar You could substitute with coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter Be sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 4 large Eggs For a vegan option, try using flaxseed meal or applesauce.
  • 2 teaspoons Baking powder Essential for leavening.
  • 1 cup Milk Almond milk or oat milk work well as non-dairy alternatives.
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
For the Buttercream Frosting
  • 2 cups Powdered sugar
  • 0.5 cup Heavy cream You can replace it with milk for a lighter version.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Add extra for flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Set aside.
Mixing
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Baking
  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, beating until fluffy and smooth.
  2. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second layer on and frost the top and sides as desired.

Notes

Check your ingredients and make sure your butter is soft but not melted. Chill your frosting if it's too soft to spread nicely. Decorate with fresh berries, sprinkles, or chocolate shavings.