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–+ servings
A tall slice of light-colored layer cake with white frosting and red crumbs, showcasing one of the best Cake Ideas Recipes.

Simple Vanilla Layer Cake

This recipe makes a moist and tender vanilla layer cake suitable for any occasion. It includes instructions for making the cake layers and a simple buttercream frosting.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 people
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake Layers
  • 2 1/2 cups All-purpose flour Sifted
  • 1 1/2 cups Granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp Baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter Softened
  • 4 large Eggs
  • 1 tbsp Vanilla extract
  • 1 cup Milk Whole milk recommended
For the Buttercream Frosting
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter Softened
  • 4 cups Powdered sugar Sifted
  • 1/4 cup Milk
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Two 8-inch round cake pans
  • Electric mixer
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper circles.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk together.
  5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on medium speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. To make the frosting, beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
  9. Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread about one-third of the frosting evenly over the top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 45g

Notes

You can make the cake layers up to two days ahead. Wrap cooled, unfrosted layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. For make-ahead frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Let it soften slightly before using, then beat it again briefly to restore the texture.

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