Simple Vanilla Cake

A reliable, moist vanilla cake that serves as the perfect base for any frosting.

Difficulty: Medium  |  Prep: 20m  |  Cook: 35m  |  Yield: One 9-inch two-layer cake

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (227g) butter, softened
  • 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
  3. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla.
  5. Add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
  7. Bake for 28-32 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.