Fluffy Vanilla Cake Recipe

What makes this the best vanilla cake recipe? It’s all about the texture and flavor. The combination of sour cream and whole milk keeps the crumb incredibly moist and soft, while real vanilla extract gives it that rich, classic taste. Unlike store-bought mixes, this homemade vanilla cake has no artificial ingredients — just pure, delicious goodness. It’s also versatile: you can use it as a base for layered cakes, cupcakes, or sheet cakes.

Fluffy Vanilla Cake Recipe

Recipe by Chef Sadat KhizarCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Fluffy Vanilla Cake Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour

• 2 ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract

• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature

• ½ cup (120ml) sour cream, room temperature

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes).
• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
• Beat in the sour cream until fully incorporated. The mixture may look slightly curdled—this is normal.
• On low speed, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
• Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Recipe Video

Serving Suggestions

This fluffy vanilla cake pairs beautifully with a variety of frostings and toppings. For a classic look, frost it with buttercream or cream cheese frosting. Add fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a light, summery touch. It also works well with chocolate ganache, fruit compotes, or even a simple whipped cream topping for a more delicate presentation. Serve it at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Storage and Saving Suggestions

To store leftover vanilla cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze individual slices or the whole cake (unfrosted) for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. If frozen with frosting, flash freeze it first to set the frosting, then wrap and store.