Quick Easy Vanilla Cake

Name: Quick Easy Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy Recipes

This Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with delicious flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:34:20.662Z

This Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is a staple recipe for any home baker. Its light texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed with frosting, fresh fruits, or simply dusted with powdered sugar.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Simple ingredients that you likely already have at home
Moist and fluffy texture that everyone loves
Perfect for birthdays, parties, or just a sweet treat

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is a versatile dessert that shines at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a casual get-together, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this cake fits the bill. Its delightful vanilla flavor and moist, fluffy texture make it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both children and adults alike.

You can dress it up or down depending on the occasion. Serve it plain for a simple dessert, or add a layer of frosting and fresh fruits for a more festive look. It's a fantastic base for layered cakes or cupcakes, giving you the creative freedom to customize it to your liking.

Simple Ingredients, Amazing Results

One of the best aspects of this Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is the simplicity of its ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your pantry. All-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract come together seamlessly to create a delicious cake without requiring any specialty items. This makes it an ideal recipe for novice bakers or anyone looking to whip up a dessert without a trip to the grocery store.

The combination of butter and milk ensures a rich flavor and moist texture, while the baking powder provides the perfect rise. This straightforward approach means you can have a delightful homemade cake ready in no time, making it less of a chore and more of a joy.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with your Quick Easy Vanilla Cake, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can be beneficial for precision, especially with flour and sugar. Additionally, ensure that your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar, which helps to incorporate air for a fluffy texture.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light, airy one. Mix just until combined for the best results, and remember to check the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.

Enjoy your delicious vanilla cake!

Frosting Ideas

When it comes to frosting your Quick Easy Vanilla Cake, the options are endless. A classic buttercream frosting pairs beautifully with the vanilla flavor. You can also consider cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist or a simple whipped cream topping for a lighter option. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, can add a refreshing touch and a pop of color.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try using flavored frostings like chocolate or lemon to add a different dimension to your cake. Remember, the frosting should complement the cake without overpowering its delightful vanilla essence.

Storage Tips

To keep your Quick Easy Vanilla Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay delicious for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its shelf life up to a week. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavor and texture.

If you’ve made a larger batch or plan to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a delightful treat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Quick Easy Vanilla Cake as a standalone treat, or pair it with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Fresh fruit compote or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate your cake to a restaurant-quality dessert. For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top or add edible flowers for decoration.

For a brunch gathering, consider slicing the cake into smaller pieces and serving it alongside coffee or tea. This cake is not just for dessert; it can also be a delightful addition to your morning or afternoon tea spread, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture or whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

→ What are some good frosting options?

Buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream are all great choices to pair with vanilla cake.