Everyone deserves to master a classic vanilla cake recipe that delivers perfect results every time.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these 10 outstanding recipes will help you create tender, moist, and flavorful cakes that your family and friends will adore.
From simple one-bowl wonders to professional-grade masterpieces, we’ll explore recipes that range from basic to advanced.
You’ll discover the secrets to achieving the perfect crumb, learn essential mixing techniques, and find options for both traditional buttercream and modern frosting variations that complement these timeless vanilla cakes.
Classic Vanilla Bean Layer Cake with Buttercream

Indulge in the timeless elegance of a homemade vanilla bean layer cake that’s perfect for any celebration.
This three-layer masterpiece features a delicate crumb, real vanilla beans, and silky smooth buttercream frosting that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 vanilla beans, scraped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water
For the Buttercream:
• 4 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 8 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• Pinch of salt
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line three 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 3: Beat eggs, milk, oil, vanilla beans, and extract in a separate bowl.
Step 4: Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients, then slowly add hot water.
Step 5: Divide batter between pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Step 6: For buttercream, beat butter until fluffy, gradually add sugar, vanilla, and cream.
Step 7: Once cakes cool, stack and frost layers, then decorate as desired.
Pro Tip: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting – this creates a more uniform batter and better texture. For the smoothest buttercream, beat the butter alone for at least 5 minutes before adding other ingredients.
Ultra-Moist Sour Cream Vanilla Bundt Cake

Prepare yourself for a heavenly, melt-in-your-mouth vanilla bundt cake that will become your go-to dessert for any occasion.
This ultra-moist cake combines the richness of sour cream with pure vanilla flavor, creating a perfect balance that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup whole milk
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
Step 5: Alternate adding the flour mixture and sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Add milk gradually.
Step 6: Pour batter into prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
Step 7: Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool in pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack.
Pro Tip: Ensure all your refrigerated ingredients reach room temperature before starting – this creates a smoother batter and more even baking. Also, don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour, as this can lead to a tough cake texture.
Light and Fluffy Vanilla Chiffon Cake

Create the perfect cloud-like vanilla chiffon cake that melts in your mouth with this foolproof recipe.
This classic dessert combines the richness of egg yolks with the lightness of whipped egg whites to create an irresistibly airy texture.
Ingredients:
• 7 large eggs, separated
• 2¼ cups cake flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup water
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Keep your tube pan ungreased.
Step 2: Sift together cake flour, 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk egg yolks, water, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add remaining sugar while beating until stiff peaks form.
Step 6: Gently fold egg white mixture into the batter in three portions.
Step 7: Pour batter into the ungreased tube pan and bake for 55-60 minutes.
Step 8: Invert pan and cool completely before removing the cake.
Pro Tip: Room temperature eggs will give you the best volume when whipping the whites. To ensure perfect peaks, make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely free from any grease or egg yolk traces.
Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in this heavenly Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake topped with silky cream cheese frosting.
This classic dessert combines the pure, aromatic flavor of real vanilla beans with a perfectly moist cake texture that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Perfect for parties, potlucks, or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 vanilla beans, split and scraped
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1¼ cups buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
Step 3: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla bean seeds and eggs one at a time.
Step 4: Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 6: For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
Step 7: Once cake is completely cool, spread frosting evenly over the top.
Pro Tip: For the best vanilla flavor, scrape your vanilla beans onto the sugar and let sit for 10 minutes before mixing. Always ensure your dairy ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest, most consistent batter.
Old-Fashioned Vanilla Pound Cake

Treat yourself to the timeless comfort of a classic vanilla pound cake.
This buttery, rich dessert gets its name from the traditional recipe that called for a pound each of key ingredients.
Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma as this golden cake bakes to perfection.
Ingredients:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan.
Step 2: Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
Step 3: In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
Step 4: Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
Step 5: Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 6: Alternately add flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour.
Step 7: Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Step 8: Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
Pro Tip: For the perfect texture, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. Test for doneness at the 1-hour mark, as oven temperatures can vary significantly.
White Chocolate Vanilla Marble Cake

Create a stunning dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of white chocolate with classic vanilla flavors in this elegant marble cake.
This show-stopping treat features beautiful swirls throughout and makes the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk, room temperature
• 8 oz white chocolate, melted and cooled
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan.
Step 2: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
Step 3: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
Step 5: Gradually add flour mixture alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour.
Step 6: Divide batter in half. Mix melted white chocolate into one half.
Step 7: Mix cocoa powder into the other half.
Step 8: Alternately spoon batters into prepared pan. Swirl with a knife to create marble effect.
Step 9: Bake for 45-50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Pro Tip: For the perfect marble effect, don’t over-swirl the batters – five to six gentle swirls are enough. Always let your cake cool completely before removing it from the pan to prevent breaking.
French Vanilla Birthday Cake

Indulge in the classic elegance of a homemade French Vanilla Birthday Cake that’s sure to make any celebration extra special.
This moist, tender cake features real vanilla beans and a luxurious buttercream frosting that will impress your guests and create lasting memories.
Ingredients:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 vanilla beans, scraped
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1¼ cups whole milk, room temperature
For the Frosting:
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1½ cups unsalted butter, softened
• 1 vanilla bean, scraped
• 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream
• ¼ teaspoon salt
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
Step 3: Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
Step 4: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla beans and extract.
Step 5: Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour.
Step 6: Divide batter between pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Step 7: For frosting, beat butter until creamy, gradually add sugar, vanilla, and cream until smooth.
Step 8: Once cakes are cooled, frost and decorate as desired.
Pro Tip: For the most authentic French vanilla flavor, don’t skip the real vanilla beans – they make all the difference. Also, ensure all your refrigerated ingredients are at room temperature before starting to achieve the perfect cake texture.
Madagascar Vanilla Bean Wedding Cake

Create an elegant and luxurious wedding cake that showcases the rich, floral notes of pure Madagascar vanilla beans.
This three-tier masterpiece features delicate vanilla-flecked layers with silky vanilla bean buttercream, perfect for your special day or any grand celebration.
Ingredients:
• 6 cups cake flour
• 4 Madagascar vanilla beans, split and scraped
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 8 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Buttercream:
• 6 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 24 cups powdered sugar
• 2 Madagascar vanilla beans, split and scraped
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and line three cake pans (6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch).
Step 2: Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
Step 4: Add vanilla bean seeds and extract.
Step 5: Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture.
Step 6: Divide batter among pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Step 7: Make buttercream by whipping butter until creamy, then gradually add sugar and vanilla.
Step 8: Once cakes are cooled, stack and frost layers, then decorate as desired.
Pro Tip: For the most intense vanilla flavor, prepare your cake layers 1-2 days before assembly and wrap them well in plastic wrap. This allows the vanilla to fully develop its flavor profile and keeps the cake perfectly moist.
Tender Vanilla Cupcake Recipe

Treat yourself to these irresistibly soft and fluffy vanilla cupcakes that will melt in your mouth.
These classic treats feature a delicate crumb and pure vanilla flavor that makes them perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup sour cream
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
Step 2: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
Step 3: Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine milk and sour cream in a small bowl.
Step 6: Alternately add dry ingredients and milk mixture to the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour.
Step 7: Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Pro Tip: For the most tender cupcakes, make sure all your refrigerated ingredients reach room temperature before mixing. Avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour – this will prevent tough, dense cupcakes.
Simple One-Bowl Vanilla Cake

Create the perfect homemade vanilla cake with this foolproof recipe that requires just one bowl and basic pantry ingredients.
This moist, tender cake delivers a delightful vanilla flavor that’s perfect for any occasion, from birthday celebrations to casual desserts.
Ingredients:
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 3½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and flour.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: Add softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix with an electric mixer until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Pour in milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and oil. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined and smooth.
Step 5: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tip: For the most tender cake, ensure all your refrigerated ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Also, avoid overmixing the batter once the wet ingredients are combined – this will prevent your cake from becoming tough and dense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What basic ingredients do you need for a classic vanilla cake recipe?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs, butter, vanilla extract, baking powder, milk, and salt. These core ingredients create the perfect tender and moist texture.
What’s the secret to achieving a super moist vanilla cake?
Add sour cream or Greek yogurt to your cake batter and avoid overmixing. Room temperature ingredients also help create a perfectly moist crumb structure.
How can you prevent your vanilla cake from sinking in the middle?
Check your oven temperature with a thermometer and avoid opening the door while baking. Make sure your leavening agents are fresh and properly measured.
What’s the ideal mixing method for a light and fluffy vanilla cake?
Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes), then alternate wet and dry ingredients. This method incorporates air for perfect texture.
How long should you let your vanilla cake cool before frosting?
Cool your cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack for about 1 hour. This prevents condensation and ensures proper frosting adhesion.
Final Thoughts
These vanilla cake recipes offer you endless possibilities to create the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Remember to always use room temperature ingredients, measure precisely, and avoid overmixing your batter for the best texture.
Whether you choose a classic buttermilk version or try a more modern twist with vanilla bean paste, following these tested recipes will help you achieve bakery-worthy results.
Don’t forget to properly prepare your pans and check for doneness with a toothpick test.
With these recipes in your arsenal, you’ll be ready to bake a crowd-pleasing vanilla cake anytime.