Classic Vanilla Cake (White or Yellow / Butter Cake)

Classic Vanilla Cake, also known as White Cake or Yellow Butter Cake, is one of the most beloved and versatile desserts in the world. This timeless recipe delivers a soft, moist crumb with a rich buttery flavor and a delicate vanilla aroma that never goes out of style. Whether you’re baking for birthdays, weddings, afternoon tea, or simple family gatherings, this cake is the perfect foundation for endless variations and decorations.

What makes this classic vanilla cake recipe special is its balance of simplicity and elegance. Using basic pantry ingredients like flour, butter, eggs, sugar, and milk, you can create a bakery-quality cake right in your own kitchen. The recipe works beautifully as a layered cake with frosting, a simple sheet cake, or even as cupcakes. You can also customize it with fresh fruits, chocolate chips, or flavored frostings to suit any occasion.

This recipe can be made as a white cake by using only egg whites, resulting in a lighter color and delicate texture, or as a yellow butter cake by using whole eggs, giving it a richer taste and golden hue. Both versions are incredibly moist and tender, making this a go-to recipe for beginner bakers and experienced pastry lovers alike.

From its fluffy crumb to its buttery vanilla flavor, this cake pairs perfectly with classic buttercream frosting, cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s ideal for celebrations, bake sales, or whenever you crave a comforting homemade dessert. If you’re looking for a reliable, foolproof vanilla cake recipe that delivers consistent results every time, this classic vanilla cake is the answer.

Ingredients

• 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 (or 5 egg whites for white cake)
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
• Optional:
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for extra moisture)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light, pale, and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. If making a white cake, beat in egg whites gradually.
6. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
7. Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix.
8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.