There’s something wonderfully comforting about the aroma of a homemade cake wafting through the house. This easy vanilla cake recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. It’s made with basic pantry ingredients, requires minimal technique, and results in a soft, moist, and deliciously tender cake that feels like a warm hug with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family celebration, a school event, or simply treating yourself to a quiet afternoon dessert, this cake fits the bill beautifully.
The real beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—you can enjoy it plain, dress it up with frosting, or pair it with fresh fruit and cream. It also serves as a reliable base for custom flavors. Want to add a citrus twist? Stir in some lemon or orange zest. Prefer chocolate? Mix in some cocoa powder. Once you’ve tried this cake, it’ll likely become your go-to for its simplicity and satisfying results. Plus, baking it at home means you avoid preservatives and have control over the ingredients you use. Let’s get started!
Ingredients (Serves 10–12):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs
- 1 stick of butter (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1.5 cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
- Prepare your baking pan by greasing it with butter and lightly dusting it with flour. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and nutmeg. Mix well and set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, add the butter and sugar. Cream together using a mixer or whisk until light, fluffy, and smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix again.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until everything is just combined. Pour in the water and stir until the batter reaches a smooth consistency.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (about 175°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy as-is or topped with your favorite frosting.
Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations:
This vanilla cake provides energy from carbohydrates and fats, making it a great treat in moderation. It contains dairy, eggs, and gluten, so it’s not suitable for those with related allergies or sensitivities. You can swap in plant-based milk or gluten-free flour blends if needed, though the texture may vary slightly.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring:
Tried this recipe? We’d love to know how it turned out! Did you make any fun changes or share it with someone special? Drop a comment below and share your experience. And don’t forget to pass this recipe along—it might brighten someone else’s day too!