Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of tender vanilla buttercream cake – the perfect combination of fluffy cake layers and smooth, creamy frosting. With this irresistible Vanilla Buttercream Cake recipe, you can bring this delightful treat to life right in your own kitchen. The delicate vanilla flavor is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, making it a crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a cake that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Cake Batter:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Preparation
Making the Cake Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer or by hand.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake texture.
Baking the Cake Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Preparing the Buttercream Frosting:
- Using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. You want it to be spreadable but not too thin.
Assembling and Decorating the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread a generous amount of buttercream frosting on top of the first layer.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream frosting, using a cake spatula or butter knife.
- To add an extra touch, you can pipe additional decorations using a piping bag and your desired tip.
- Enjoy your homemade vanilla buttercream cake!
Tips and Variations
Tips for Perfect Vanilla Buttercream Cake:
- Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother batter.
- Be precise when measuring your ingredients, especially the flour, to ensure the best texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter or overbake the cake layers, as this can result in a dry and tough cake.
- To enhance the vanilla flavor, you can scrape the seeds from a vanilla bean and add them to the batter or frosting.
- For a moister cake, you can brush the cooled cake layers with a simple syrup made by dissolving sugar in hot water.
Variations to Try:
- Chocolate Buttercream Cake: Add cocoa powder to the frosting mixture for a rich and chocolatey twist.
- Lemon Buttercream Cake: Add lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the frosting for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Strawberry Buttercream Cake: Puree fresh strawberries and add them to the frosting for a fruity and vibrant cake.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of frosting for this cake?
Yes, you can definitely use a different type of frosting if you prefer. Cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or whipped cream are all delicious alternatives that can complement the vanilla cake.
How should I store the leftover cake?
To store the leftover cake, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life. Make sure to bring the refrigerated cake to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Now you have all the steps and tips to create a delicious vanilla buttercream cake from scratch. This classic recipe is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With its light and fluffy cake layers paired with a creamy and sweet buttercream frosting, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t be afraid to get creative with variations and decorations to make it your own. Enjoy the process of baking and savor every bite of this homemade treat!