How do you make a homemade vanilla cake? If you’re looking to impress your friends and family with a delicious, homemade dessert, then look no further. Making a vanilla cake from scratch is easier than you might think, and the end result is always worth the effort. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating a classic vanilla cake that you can be proud of.
Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. You’ll need flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, milk, butter, and vanilla extract. Additionally, you’ll need a mixing bowl, a whisk or electric mixer, a cake pan, and an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C).
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a homemade vanilla cake:
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the cake.
2. Prepare the Cake Pan: Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a 9×13-inch rectangular baking pan. This helps prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat 3 large eggs with 1 cup of milk and 1/3 cup of melted butter. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
5. Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake tough.
6. Pour the Batter into the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake the Cake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Frost and Decorate: Once the cake is cooled, you can frost and decorate it however you like. Classic vanilla cake is often frosted with a simple buttercream frosting, but you can get creative with your decorations.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake into pieces and serve it to your friends and family. Enjoy your homemade vanilla cake!
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to make a delicious homemade vanilla cake that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a homemade dessert, this recipe is a great place to start. Happy baking!
