Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe with Buttermilk and Vanilla Bean

Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe for Every Occasion

Light, fluffy, and full of rich vanilla flavor — a timeless cake that never goes out of style.

When it comes to cakes, nothing beats a truly great vanilla cake. This classic vanilla cake is light, fluffy, and filled with rich vanilla flavor thanks to a blend of pure vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, a holiday, or simply treating yourself, this versatile cake promises to deliver crowd-pleasing results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Cake

This cake strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. Made with buttermilk and cake flour, it bakes up tender and soft, while the double dose of vanilla gives it a luxurious flavor. It's easy to customize with your favorite frosting or filling, making it a recipe you'll return to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2¼ cups cake flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• 1¼ cups buttermilk, room temperature

• 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1½ cups granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

How to Make the Best Vanilla Cake

1. Prepare the Pans

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 8- or 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a bowl.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.

4. Add the Eggs and Flavoring

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla bean paste and vanilla extract, scraping the bowl as needed.

5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

On low speed, add ⅓ of the dry ingredients, followed by half the buttermilk. Repeat, ending with the final third of the dry mixture. Mix until fully incorporated, scraping the bowl often.

6. Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the pans. Bake for 25–35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10–15 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Frosting and Filling Ideas

• Classic Pairings: Vanilla buttercream, chocolate buttercream

• Fresh Flavors: Raspberry buttercream, strawberry frosting

• Alternative Frostings: Cream cheese frosting, whipped cream frosting

• Fillings: Lemon curd, chocolate ganache, salted caramel, fresh berries, fruit preserves, or Nutella

Mix and match frostings and fillings to create your perfect combination!

Tips for Perfect Vanilla Cake

• Measure flour correctly to avoid a dense cake.

• Use cake flour for the lightest texture.

• Don't skip the buttermilk—it adds tenderness and depth of flavor.

• Bring ingredients to room temperature for a smooth batter.

• Sift the dry ingredients to ensure even mixing and a fine crumb.

Storage Tips

• Unfrosted cake layers: Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Frosted cake: Store covered at room temperature (if using buttercream) for up to 3 days or refrigerate if using cream cheese frosting.

• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted layers for up to 2 months or frosted cakes/slices for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a white cake or a yellow cake?
Since this recipe uses whole eggs and butter, it’s technically a yellow cake, known for its rich flavor and golden color.

Can I make a buttermilk substitute?
Yes! Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
For best results, use cake flour. However, you can make a cake flour substitute by combining all-purpose flour with cornstarch.

A classic vanilla cake like this one never goes out of style. Whether you're dressing it up with elaborate decorations or keeping it simple with a luscious buttercream swirl, it's sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for more timeless recipes and baking inspiration to sweeten every special occasion.