Moist Vanilla Cake Recipe That’s Quick, Easy, and Absolutely Foolproof

There’s something quietly powerful about a really good vanilla cake. No gimmicks, no shortcuts — just a soft, moist crumb, rich vanilla flavor, and a buttercream frosting that makes you want to sneak a swipe from the bowl. This Moist Vanilla Cake Recipe is the one I make when I need a guaranteed win.

It comes together easily, bakes beautifully, and works just as well as a sheet cake, layer cake, or cupcakes. This is the kind of recipe you keep bookmarked forever. If classic, reliable baking is your thing, I’d love for you to subscribe by email so you never miss a recipe from my kitchen to yours

Overview of Recipe Content

What Is This Vanilla Cake?

This is a classic homemade vanilla cake made with butter, eggs, milk, and real vanilla extract. It’s light yet moist, sturdy enough for layering, and tender enough to enjoy on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, fluffy, and incredibly moist
• Rich vanilla flavor
• Easy, beginner-friendly method
• Works as cake or cupcakes

What Does It Taste Like?

Pure vanilla goodness — buttery, lightly sweet, and balanced. The buttercream frosting adds a creamy finish without overpowering the cake.

Ingredients

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For the Vanilla Cake

• 2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, room temperature

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Sprinkles (optional, for decorating)

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• 9×13-inch pan or two 9-inch round pans
• Parchment paper
• Offset spatula

Substitutions & Additions

• Use cake flour for extra tenderness
• Add almond extract for bakery flavor
• Turn into cupcakes (bake 18–22 minutes)
• Add sprinkles directly into the batter

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake

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Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients and Milk

Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry.

Step 6: Bake

Bake 30–35 minutes (or until toothpick comes out clean).

Step 7: Frost

Cool completely, then frost with vanilla buttercream.

What to Serve with Vanilla Cake

• Fresh berries
• Coffee or milk
• Chocolate or strawberry sauce
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Use room-temperature ingredients
• Don’t overmix after adding flour
• Measure flour correctly
• Let cake cool fully before frosting

Storage Instructions

• Store covered at room temperature 2 days
• Refrigerate up to 5 days
• Freeze unfrosted layers up to 2 months
• Bring to room temp before serving

General Information

Vanilla cake is a classic for a reason — it’s endlessly adaptable and universally loved. Butter-based cakes like this offer richer flavor and structure compared to oil-only versions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this into cupcakes?

Yes — bake 18–22 minutes.

Can I halve the recipe?

Absolutely.

Can I use low-fat milk?

Whole milk gives best texture, but 2% works.

Is this cake very sweet?

Balanced and classic, not overly sweet.

Conclusion

This Moist Vanilla Cake Recipe is one of those dependable bakes you’ll reach for again and again. Simple, versatile, and incredibly satisfying — it’s everything a homemade cake should be. If you love classic baking, try these next:

• Simple Chocolate Cake
  https://poulef.com/simple-chocolate-cake/
• Yellow Birthday Cake
  https://poulef.com/yellow-cake/
• Vanilla Cupcakes
  https://poulef.com/vanilla-cupcakes/
• Buttercream Frosting
  https://poulef.com/vanilla-buttercream/
• Easy Sheet Cake
  https://poulef.com/easy-sheet-cake/

Interactive Elements

Did you bake this cake? Leave a review below
Share your cake on Pinterest and tag me https://www.pinterest.com/poulefrecipe/

Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	13g
Carbs	52g
Sugar	36g
Protein	5g
Sodium	220mg

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