Quick Easy Vanilla Cake

Name: Quick Easy Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-3 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: QuickFix Kitchen

This Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is a delightful treat that comes together in no time, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:14:20.789Z

This Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is not just simple to make, but it's also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a sweet treat, this cake is sure to please!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile base for any frosting or filling you desire
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings

      

A Perfect Base for Any Occasion

This Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is more than just a simple dessert; it's a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or just indulging in a sweet treat, this cake fits the bill perfectly. Its light and fluffy texture makes it an ideal base for various frostings, fillings, and toppings, allowing you to customize it to suit any occasion.

You can elevate the vanilla flavor by adding fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries, or incorporate chocolate chips for an extra layer of indulgence. The possibilities are endless! This cake can also be transformed into a layered masterpiece, making it perfect for special celebrations. Just stack multiple layers with your favorite frosting in between for a show-stopping dessert.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the standout features of this Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is its simplicity. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in less than an hour, making it a lifesaver for last-minute gatherings or unexpected guests. With just a few steps and some basic kitchen tools, you'll have a delicious cake ready to serve in no time.

This straightforward preparation process is perfect for novice bakers and experienced cooks alike. You won't need any fancy equipment—just a mixing bowl, whisk, and a cake pan. Plus, the baking time is relatively short, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your time with friends and family.

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your Quick Easy Vanilla Cake fresh, it's best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you anticipate leftovers, you can also refrigerate the cake to prolong its freshness. However, be mindful that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture, making it less fluffy. If you choose to frost the cake, it's advisable to frost it just before serving to maintain its light texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.

When it comes to serving, this cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A cup of coffee or tea complements its sweetness beautifully, while a glass of milk is a classic choice. For a fun twist, consider serving slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling with chocolate or fruit sauces for added indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting (optional)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Enjoy your homemade vanilla cake with your favorite frosting or simply dusted with powdered sugar!

Variations to Explore

While this Quick Easy Vanilla Cake is delightful on its own, consider experimenting with flavors to make it uniquely yours. For instance, you can infuse the batter with citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to add a refreshing twist. Alternatively, try swapping out a portion of the all-purpose flour for almond flour to introduce a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider turning this cake into a marble cake by swirling in some chocolate or fruit puree before baking. These variations not only add visual appeal but also create exciting new taste experiences that will surprise and delight your guests.

Ideal Frosting Choices

The frosting options for this Quick Easy Vanilla Cake are virtually limitless! A classic buttercream is always a crowd-pleaser, but you can also explore whipped cream for a lighter alternative. Cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tang that complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully, offering a richer flavor profile.

For a more adventurous twist, consider trying ganache made from melted chocolate and cream for a decadent finish. Or, if you're looking to keep things light, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can add just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the cake's delicate vanilla flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour, but you may need to adjust the amount slightly.

→ How can I store the leftover 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 make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute melted coconut oil or vegetable oil for butter in this recipe.