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A funfetti birthday cake with white frosting, colorful sprinkles, and candles on a black stand.

Classic Vanilla Birthday Cake

Adam
This Classic Vanilla Birthday Cake is the perfect treat for any celebration. With its soft, fluffy texture and delicious vanilla flavor, it’s guaranteed to please everyone at your party! Enjoy it on its own or decorate it with your favorite frosting and sprinkles for a special touch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste optional, for added flavor
  • ½ cup heavy cream if using for frosting

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven

  • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

  • In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Eggs

  • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and beat until fully combined.

Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Bake

  • Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Frost and Decorate

  • Once the cakes have cooled, frost with your favorite frosting (buttercream or whipped cream work great) and decorate with sprinkles, berries, or cake toppers.
  • Enjoy your delicious Classic Vanilla Birthday Cake!

Notes

  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 10g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
    • Fiber: 0g
    • Sugars: 32g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Vitamin A: 6%
  • Calcium: 2%
  • Iron: 4%
Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.
Keyword Classic Vanilla Birthday Cake, Homemade cake