Vanilla Birthday Cake is the timeless centerpiece of any celebration. With its soft, moist layers of vanilla-flavored sponge and rich, creamy frosting, this cake is pure joy in every bite. It’s the kind of cake that brings back memories of childhood parties, candlelit wishes, and sweet celebrations with loved ones. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, it’s a true expression of love and tradition in the kitchen. This recipe delivers a buttery, tender crumb and that iconic vanilla flavor we all know and love. It’s versatile enough for layering with fruit, jam, or funfetti sprinkles, and it pairs beautifully with both buttercream and whipped frostings. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, anniversary, or just because, this cake guarantees a smile on every face and a second slice on every plate.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This Vanilla Birthday Cake strikes the perfect balance of light and rich. It’s incredibly moist, thanks to the use of buttermilk, and the vanilla flavor shines through beautifully. Unlike some store-bought versions, this cake doesn’t taste overly sweet or artificial. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy to master and perfect to personalize with your favorite frosting, filling, or toppings.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
- Cool Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Servings: 10–12
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
2. Mix and Bake
Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Cool and Frost
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely. For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually, then mix in vanilla, salt, and enough cream to reach your desired consistency.
4. Assemble and Decorate
Once cakes are cool, level the tops if needed. Spread frosting over one layer, add the second, and frost the top and sides. Decorate with sprinkles, piped borders, or candles as desired.
Variations
- Funfetti Cake: Add ½ cup rainbow sprinkles to the batter.
- Strawberry Filling: Add a layer of strawberry jam or fresh strawberries between the layers.
- Whipped Cream Frosting: Use whipped cream instead of buttercream for a lighter option.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between cake layers.
- Lemon Zing: Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy spin.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 2 x 8-inch round cake pans
- Offset spatula
- Wire rack
- Cake stand or serving plate
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: ~450
- Carbs: 60g
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 45g
Values may vary slightly based on size and decoration.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerate for up to 5 days, bringing to room temp before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap unfrosted layers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready.
My Cooking Experience
With over 4 years in the kitchen, I’ve baked countless cakes, but this Vanilla Birthday Cake remains a top favorite. It’s my go-to for celebrations—easy to personalize and always a hit with guests. The fluffy texture, balanced sweetness, and classic flavor make it the kind of cake people remember and request again and again.
Conclusion
Vanilla Birthday Cake is the kind of dessert that brings people together. It’s a symbol of joy, celebration, and sweet memories shared. This from-scratch recipe is simple, reliable, and delicious—perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Whether you’re baking for someone special or just craving a nostalgic treat, this cake will make the moment even more memorable.
vanilla cake recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely. For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually, then mix in vanilla, salt, and enough cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Once cakes are cool, level the tops if needed. Spread frosting over one layer, add the second, and frost the top and sides. Decorate with sprinkles, piped borders, or candles as desired.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerate for up to 5 days, bringing to room temp before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap unfrosted layers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready.
