The Bake off Vanilla Cake Simple Perfection
- Recipe Introduction
- What Makes This the Ultimate Vanilla Cake?
- Why You'll Love this Recipe
- Time to Get Baking
- Ingredients & Equipment for the Perfect Simple Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Mastering the Method: Baking Our Simple Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Recipe Notes for the Best Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 📝 Recipe Card
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever had one of those days? You know, the kind where only cake will do? This simple vanilla cake recipe is your answer.
Honestly, it's so good and easy, it's practically therapeutic. It's got that classic, comforting vanilla flavour.
Brief Overview
The classic vanilla cake is a cornerstone of baking. It's enjoyed worldwide. It's a relatively easy bake, taking about an hour. This recipe yields 8-10 slices, perfect for sharing... or not!
Main Benefits
The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe is comforting. It's also perfect for any celebration. This Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe is special because it's incredibly versatile.
Slap some Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe on it or just enjoy it plain!
What Makes This the Ultimate Vanilla Cake?
This isn't just any simple cake recipe . I wanted to share a Beginner Vanilla Cake . It's foolproof and delicious. When I first started baking, I struggled.
It's a truly delightful Bake Off Cake Recipe level cake!
Why You'll Love this Recipe
You know what I love? A recipe that doesn't require a degree in pastry arts. The Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe is all about ease.
It also has the most delicious Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe . Plus, it only uses a few basic ingredients. You might have them already.
Time to Get Baking
You just need flour, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla, baking powder, salt, and milk! I promise, even if you've never baked before, this Quick Vanilla Cake is totally achievable. Now, let's get started!
Ingredients & Equipment for the Perfect Simple Vanilla Cake Recipe
Alright, let's talk ingredients for this easy vanilla cake recipe ! I'll break it down so it's dead simple. This vanilla cake from scratch will be a total winner.
Main Players: Wet & Dry
For the dry stuff, you'll need 250g (2 cups) of plain flour. Make sure it's fresh! We also need 10g (2 teaspoons) of baking powder.
Then, a pinch of salt. Just 1/2 teaspoon will do.
Now for the wet bits. Grab 115g (1/2 cup) of proper softened butter. None of that rock hard stuff! 200g (1 cup) of sugar, granulated.
Two large eggs are also needed. Don't forget the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Last, get 240ml (1 cup) of milk.
Seasoning Secrets: Vanilla Magic!
Honestly, the vanilla extract is key. A good quality one makes all the difference. Try Madagascan vanilla. You can sub almond extract if you're feeling wild.
But I always go back to vanilla! This classic vanilla cake shines with good extract. A great bake off cake recipe starts with quality ingredients!
Essential Kit: Gear Up!
You will need a 9 inch round cake pan . An electric mixer (handheld is fine) is also a must. Get yourself some mixing bowls.
Measuring cups and spoons are essential. A spatula for scraping. Parchment paper is a handy extra. Finally, a wire rack for cooling! Seriously, cooling matters.
If you don't have a fancy pan, a well greased standard one will do. A whisk can stand in for a mixer if you are brave.
This beginner vanilla cake needs basic gear.
This quick vanilla cake only needs essential equipment, and you get a vanilla sponge cake recipe result.
Mastering the Method: Baking Our Simple Vanilla Cake Recipe
Let’s chat about baking this easy vanilla cake recipe . It all boils down to the method, right? I mean, anyone can throw ingredients together.
But getting that perfect rise and texture? That's where the technique shines!
Prep Steps: Setting the Stage for Success
First things first: mise en place is your best mate. Honestly, measure out all your ingredients before you start. This stops you from panicking halfway through when you realise you're short on sugar.
Trust me, it’s happened to me more times than I'd like to admit. Now, to save time? Soften your butter beforehand, that's like a life hack.
Safety note: Always use oven mitts!
step-by-step: From Bowl to Oven
Here's the method to my madness:
- Grease and flour that 9 inch cake tin. Don't be shy.
- Cream 115g softened butter with 200g sugar till it's light and fluffy. About 3- 5 minutes should do it.
- Beat in 2 eggs, one at a time, and then 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Whisk together 250g flour, 10g baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- Gradually add the dry bits to the wet bits, alternating with 240ml milk. Stop when just combined.
- Pour into your tin and spread it all nice and even.
- Bake at 175° C for 30- 35 minutes . A skewer should come out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then flip onto a wire rack.
See that golden hue? That's when you know it's close!
Pro Tips: Secrets from My Kitchen
- Want a vanilla sponge cake recipe with extra flavour? Brown the butter first! It gives it this nutty, caramel-y thing. Oh my gosh, so good!
- Don’t overmix, alright? It's the cardinal sin of baking a classic vanilla cake .
- This cake actually tastes even better the next day. So, it is a great make-ahead option, if you can resist eating it. Now go ahead and bake that bake off cake recipe to impress your friend!
Recipe Notes for the Best Vanilla Cake Recipe
Honestly, this simple vanilla cake recipe is pretty straightforward. But a few extra tips can really elevate it! It's the easy vanilla cake recipe your nan would be proud of! Let's get into the nitty gritty.
Serving Suggestions: Fancy Pants or Keeping it Real?
Presentation is key, you know? For a Bake Off Cake Recipe vibe, try layering it with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe and fresh raspberries.
Dead posh! Or keep it casual. A dusting of icing sugar works a treat. And honestly, a simple vanilla ice cream on the side never hurt anyone! Feeling boozy? A dessert wine like Sauternes or Moscato will be spot on.
Storage Tips: Making It Last
This vanilla sponge cake recipe keeps well if stored correctly. Wrap it tightly in cling film or an airtight container.
Pop it in the fridge, and it'll be good for up to 3 days. Want to freeze it? Go for it! Wrap individual slices well.
They'll last up to 2 months. Defrost at room temperature. Reheating isn't needed, but a quick zap in the microwave (like 10-15 seconds) will make it extra fluffy.
Variations: Getting Creative with Your Cake
Fancy a twist on this classic vanilla cake ? Add lemon zest for a zingy quick vanilla cake . Or swap out some of the flour for almond flour.
It gives a lovely nutty flavour. Making it gluten-free is also a doddle. Just use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.
Make sure it has xanthan gum!
Nutrition Basics: A Treat, Not a Treatment
Each slice of this vanilla cake from scratch has about 350-400 calories. Also 4 grams of protein, 18 grams of fat, 45 grams of carbohydrates, and 25 grams of sugar.
Remember it's a treat. The real benefit? It boosts happiness and can totally make your day.
So, there you have it. All you need to know about my beginner vanilla cake ! Seriously, give this simple cake recipe a go. You will be impressed!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my simple vanilla cake recipe turn out dry, even though I followed the instructions?
A dry cake is a baker's worst nightmare! It's usually down to a couple of things. First, make sure you're measuring your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup instead of scooping to avoid packing it in. Secondly, avoid over baking the cake.
Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recipe suggests, and it should bounce back when you poke it gently.
Can I use a different size cake pan for this simple vanilla cake recipe?
Absolutely, you can adapt this recipe! Just remember that changing the pan size will affect the baking time. If you use a smaller pan, it'll take longer to bake, and a larger pan will bake faster.
Keep a close eye on it in the oven, and use the skewer test (insert a skewer and if it comes out clean, it's done!) to determine when it's ready.
My cake sunk in the middle! What did I do wrong?
A sunken cake usually indicates one of two problems. Either the oven temperature was too low, or you opened the oven door too early during baking. Opening the oven door causes a sudden temperature drop that can make the cake collapse.
Make sure your oven is properly preheated and resist the urge to peek until the cake is mostly set.
How do I store this simple vanilla cake so it stays fresh?
To keep your vanilla cake moist and delicious, store it properly. If it's unfrosted, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If it's frosted, store it in the refrigerator to prevent the frosting from melting or spoiling.
Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture, like you would a cheese!
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins to this simple vanilla cake recipe?
Bagsy first slice if you're adding chocolate! Absolutely, feel free to get creative with mix-ins. Chocolate chips, sprinkles, blueberries, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of jam would be lovely.
Gently fold them into the batter just before pouring it into the pan to ensure they're evenly distributed and don't sink to the bottom.
Is this vanilla cake recipe healthy? What are some ways I could make it healthier?
While delicious, this cake isn't exactly a health food, but you can definitely make some swaps! You could replace some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup (although this may affect the texture). Replacing half the butter with unsweetened applesauce can also reduce the fat content.
Using whole wheat flour will add fibre, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.
The Bake Off Vanilla Cake Simple Perfection
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 375 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 1g |
