Simple Vanilla Layer Cake with Customizable Frosting Recipe

Introduction

This simple and versatile cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a celebration or a casual treat. It’s easy to customize with gluten-free flours, dairy alternatives, and creative frosting ideas to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based butter)
• 1 large egg (or 1/4 cup applesauce)
• 1/3 cup milk (almond or oat milk)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 4-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir gently until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
3. Step 3: Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
4. Step 4: Once fully cooled, level the cake top with a serrated knife and slice horizontally into 2–3 even layers.
5. Step 5: To make the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla extract, beating for about 5 minutes until fluffy. Set aside one-third of the frosting for the outer layer, and color the remaining as desired.
6. Step 6: Spread frosting between each cake layer, then apply a thin crumb coat over the entire cake. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to set the crumb coat.
7. Step 7: Apply the final layer of frosting. Use piping bags or edible markers for creative decorations. Personalize your cake with colors, names, designs, sprinkles, or fresh berries.

Tips & Variations

• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour and adjust baking time as needed.
• Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
• Add a tablespoon of lemon zest or cocoa powder to the batter for a fresh twist.
• If you prefer a sweeter frosting, increase the powdered sugar gradually to taste.
• To keep layers even, chill the cake before slicing to prevent crumbling.

Storage

Store the cake covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, let the cake come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Leftover cake can also be frozen wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different size pan for this cake?

Yes, but baking time will vary. A larger pan will result in a thinner cake that bakes faster, so check for doneness earlier. For deeper layers, a smaller pan works best.

How do I make the cake dairy-free?

Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter and use almond, oat, or other non-dairy milk. Make sure your powdered sugar and other ingredients are also dairy-free.

Simple Vanilla Layer Cake with Customizable Frosting Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 133 reviews

A classic and versatile cake recipe that can be easily customized to be gluten-free or vegan. This moist and fluffy cake uses simple ingredients and is perfect for celebrations or everyday treats. It includes a creamy homemade frosting that can be colored and decorated to your liking, making it a delightful centerpiece for any occasion.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake Batter Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based butter)
• 1 large egg (or 1/4 cup applesauce)
• 1/3 cup milk (almond or oat milk)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Frosting Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based butter)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (or any plant-based cream alternative)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: food coloring, edible markers, sprinkles, fresh berries for decoration

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 4-inch round cake pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until you achieve a light and fluffy texture, which should take about 3 minutes. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to combine.
2. Mix and Bake: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk to ensure a smooth batter. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
3. Cool and Level: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, level the top of the cake with a serrated knife and slice horizontally into 2 to 3 even layers.
4. Make Frosting and Fill: In a clean bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, beating for about 5 minutes until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Set aside one-third of the frosting to use as the outer layer, and color the remaining frosting as desired. Spread the colored frosting between the cake layers and apply a thin crumb coat over the entire cake. Place the cake in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to set the crumb coat.
5. Decorate: Apply the remaining frosting evenly over the cake for the final layer. Use piping bags and edible markers to add creative touches, personalizing with colors, names, or designs as you like. Add sprinkles or fresh berries as optional decoration to enhance the appearance and flavor.

Notes

• You can substitute almond flour for a gluten-free option, and use plant-based butter and milk to make the cake vegan.
• Ensure the cake is completely cool before slicing and frosting to prevent melting or slipping layers.
• For a more intense vanilla flavor, consider using vanilla bean paste instead of extract.
• The cake layers can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen, just remember to bring them to room temperature before frosting.
• Use a serrated knife for leveling and slicing the cake layers to keep them even and prevent crumbling.

Keywords: classic cake, homemade frosting, gluten-free cake, vegan cake option, simple cake recipe, celebration cake