Name: Vanilla Layer Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk

Enjoy your delightful Vanilla Layer Cake!

When I think about vanilla layer cake, I’m reminded of its simplicity and elegance, a dessert that often takes center stage at gatherings. Its fluffy texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a universal favorite, yet there’s so much more to it than meets the eye.

The process of creating this cake, from selecting quality ingredients to mastering the art of frosting, can be surprisingly intricate. As I explore the nuances and techniques that elevate a basic cake to an extraordinary one, I find there’s always something new to learn about this classic dessert.

Ingredients Required

To whip up a delicious Vanilla Layer Cake, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. First, grab 2 2/3 cups of all-purpose flour. This is what gives your cake that lovely structure.

Then, you’ll want 1 cup of white sugar. I always say, sugar is the secret to happiness in a cake! Speaking of secrets, toss in a tablespoon of baking powder to help it rise and stay fluffy.

Next up is the star of the show – a tablespoon of vanilla extract. The aroma is simply heavenly!

Don’t forget two pinches of salt to enhance all those sweet flavors. Now, let’s get crackin’ with three eggs. They bring moisture and richness that makes every bite delightful.

You’re also going to need 3/4 cup of milk and 3/4 cup of vegetable oil. The milk adds creaminess, while the oil keeps the cake moist and tender.

Before you start baking, make sure you have cooking spray on hand. It’ll help your cake slide out of the pan like a dream.

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set for an incredible baking adventure! Isn’t it exciting? Don’t you just love the thought of that beautiful cake?

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to plunge into the baking process? Let’s get started on your fabulous vanilla layer cake! First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

While that’s heating up, grab a 9-inch cake tin and grease it with cooking spray. A little parchment paper at the bottom helps too!

Now, it’s mixing time! In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir them together until they’re just friends.

Next, add in the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil. You can mix this by hand for a workout or use an electric mixer on low speed. I usually find it gets smoother that way! If your batter feels too runny, just toss in a bit more flour until it’s right.

Pour that lovely batter into your prepared pan and let it bake! After about an hour in the oven, test it with a toothpick.

When it comes out clean, it’s time to cool. Let it sit for five minutes before running a knife around the edges. Then, invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. You’re on the way to something delicious!

Baking Tips and Tricks

Baking a perfect vanilla layer cake requires some savvy tips to guarantee success. Trust me; these little tricks can make a big difference!

First off, if you’re not a fan of milk, you can swap it out for water. It still tastes delightful!

Now, measuring flour properly is super important. I like to spoon it into my measuring cup and level it off. It keeps your cake from getting too dense, which no one wants!

After baking, let your layers cool completely. Then, use a serrated knife to level them. This simple step helps create a stunning, even cake.

One of my favorite tips? Chill those cake layers in the freezer for about 20 minutes before you stack and frost them. It makes assembly so much easier, and you’ll feel like a pro!

The cake layers feel firm, making it less likely that they’ll break apart while you’re frosting. Plus, it helps the frosting go on smoothly.

Nutrition Information

When it comes to enjoying a delicious vanilla layer cake, understanding the nutrition information can help you make informed choices.

I know cake is a treat, but it’s good to know what’s inside that scrumptious slice you’re about to enjoy! Each serving, which is quite generous at about 379 calories, packs a delightful mix of flavors and textures that’ll make your taste buds dance.

You’ll find 19 grams of fat in each bite, which gives it that rich, buttery feel.

The carbohydrates come in at 47 grams, making it a perfect pick-me-up when you need that sugar boost!

And let’s not forget about protein—6 grams per slice can actually help balance out that sweet treat, right?

Serving and Storage Suggestions

After indulging in a slice of that delightful vanilla layer cake, it’s important to think about how to serve and store it.

First off, when serving, I love to dress up each slice with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It adds that extra pop of flavor and makes it visually stunning! You could even sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a touch of elegance.

Now, let’s chat about storage. If you’ve got leftovers (which is rare in my house!), cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.

It’ll keep in the fridge for about a week—if it lasts that long! Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving again; it tastes even better that way.

If you want to freeze the slices, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then pop them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight. Trust me, there’s nothing like a piece of moist vanilla cake waiting for you on a chilly day! Enjoy every bite!

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Intermediate