Vanilla Layer Cake with Creamy Vanilla Frosting

Name: Vanilla Layer Cake with Creamy Vanilla Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2-4 tbsp heavy cream

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

Indulge in the delightful layers of this Vanilla Layer Cake, beautifully complemented by a smooth and creamy vanilla frosting.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:19:21.528Z

This Vanilla Layer Cake is a classic favorite, perfect for any celebration or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Its rich flavor and light texture make it a delightful dessert that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy vanilla layers that melt in your mouth
Creamy, decadent frosting that enhances the flavor
Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any special occasion

      

A Classic Dessert for Any Occasion

Vanilla Layer Cake is a timeless classic that transcends generations. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, a wedding, or simply enjoying a family gathering, this cake brings a touch of elegance and joy to any table. Its light and fluffy texture paired with the creamy frosting is sure to wow your guests and leave them asking for seconds. This cake not only looks impressive but also tastes divine, making it a go-to choice for special occasions.

One of the beauties of this Vanilla Layer Cake is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding fruit fillings, chocolate ganache, or even a hint of citrus zest to the cake batter. This allows you to make it uniquely yours while still retaining that classic vanilla flavor. No matter how you choose to personalize it, this cake is bound to be a hit.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

To achieve the light and fluffy texture that every good layer cake should have, be sure to properly cream your butter and sugar together. This process incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a tender crumb. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients; mixing just until combined will help maintain the cake's airy quality.

Another essential tip is to ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin baking. This includes your butter, eggs, and milk. Room temperature ingredients blend more seamlessly, resulting in a better rise and texture. Lastly, don’t skip the cooling step. Allowing your cakes to cool completely before frosting will prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off, ensuring a beautifully layered cake.

Storing and Serving Your Cake

Once your Vanilla Layer Cake is assembled and frosted, it can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. To maintain its freshness, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. If you need to store it for a longer period, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its shelf life for about a week. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

When serving, consider pairing your Vanilla Layer Cake with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful treat. You can also garnish it with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate its presentation. Whether it’s a casual dessert or a centerpiece for a celebration, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
2-4 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

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

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until combined.

Stir in the vanilla extract and add the heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then add the second layer and repeat. Place the third layer on top and frost the entire cake.

Decorate as desired and enjoy your delicious Vanilla Layer Cake!

Ingredient Spotlight: Vanilla

Vanilla is often dubbed the 'queen of flavors,' and for good reason. Its rich, aromatic qualities enhance both sweet and savory dishes, but it's especially beloved in desserts. When selecting vanilla for your cake, opt for high-quality pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. Artificial vanilla flavoring may save you a few bucks, but it won't provide the same depth of taste that pure vanilla does.

Additionally, if you're feeling adventurous, consider using vanilla beans or vanilla bean paste for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. The little specks of vanilla seeds throughout the frosting and cake layers can make your dessert even more inviting.

Frosting Variations to Try

While the creamy vanilla frosting is a classic pairing for this cake, don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors. A chocolate ganache or a citrus buttercream can add a unique twist to your Vanilla Layer Cake. For a lighter option, consider a whipped cream frosting infused with fresh fruit or a hint of almond extract.

If you want to add a bit of texture, consider mixing in crushed nuts or sprinkles into your frosting. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a colorful touch that makes your cake even more appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor for the frosting?

Absolutely! You can use chocolate, lemon, or any other flavor you prefer.

→ How can I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I bake this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the layers in advance and freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use egg substitutes like applesauce, mashed banana, or commercial egg replacers.