Vanilla Cake With Butter Frosting

Name: Vanilla Cake With Butter Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole milk; 3 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup whole milk; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Oven-Made Sweets

I absolutely love baking, and there's something so comforting about a classic vanilla cake with butter frosting. This recipe has become my go-to for celebrations and even for simple family gatherings. The sweet aroma of vanilla wafting through the kitchen is irresistible, and the end result is a beautifully moist cake topped with a rich and creamy frosting. Whether it’s for a birthday party or just an afternoon treat, this cake never fails to put a smile on our faces. It's made from simple ingredients that I always have on hand.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:01:36.270Z

When I first tried making a vanilla cake with butter frosting, I was amazed at how simple it was to achieve such delightful results. The key is in using high-quality ingredients like pure vanilla extract and unsalted butter. It really elevates the flavor and texture.

Over the years, I’ve adapted this recipe to suit our taste, adding a pinch of salt to the frosting for that perfect balance of sweetness. Watching the frosting beautifully swirl on top of the cake always brings me joy, particularly when serving it to friends and family. It never disappoints!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delightfully tender crumb with a rich vanilla flavor
Smooth, creamy butter frosting that pairs perfectly
Versatile for any occasion, from birthdays to casual get-togethers

Mastering the Vanilla Flavor

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the vanilla. To achieve the best flavor, use high-quality pure vanilla extract rather than imitation vanilla. If you want to elevate the taste even further, consider incorporating the seeds from a vanilla bean pod into the batter. This not only enhances the aroma but also adds tiny flecks that will make your cake visually appealing.

Another wonderful option is to infuse your milk with vanilla. Simply heat the milk gently with a vanilla bean split down the middle to allow the flavors to seep in. After it cools, use this milk in your batter for a deeper vanilla essence that will have everyone asking for your secret.

Achieving the Perfect Frosting

Getting the right consistency for your butter frosting is crucial for a beautiful finish. Start with room-temperature butter—too cold, and you won’t achieve that creamy texture; too warm, and your frosting will be too runny. Beat it on medium speed until it’s fluffy, and add the powdered sugar gradually to avoid a sugar cloud and ensure it mixes in smoothly.

If you find your frosting too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time to thin it out until you reach the desired spreadability. Conversely, if it's too runny, a bit more powdered sugar will help firm it up. This ensures you can achieve a perfect finish whether you want a rustic look or something more polished.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup whole milk
3 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt
3 large eggs

For the Butter Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup whole milk
2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before use for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious cake:

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until well blended.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate, spread with frosting, then add the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides as desired.

Once frosted, store the cake in a cool place. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add some sprinkles or fresh fruit on top of the frosting. This cake can also be frozen for later enjoyment.

Make-Ahead Tips

This vanilla cake can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy schedules. You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. If you need to keep them for longer, they can be frozen for up to a month. Just ensure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to frost the cake, simply allow it to thaw at room temperature. I find that frosting a chilled cake can actually help keep your layers intact and make spreading easier, so consider refrigerating the cooled cakes for a short while before frosting.

Variations to Try

While this vanilla cake is delightful as is, you can easily customize it for different tastes. For a chocolate twist, replace a portion of the flour with cocoa powder—or for a fun party theme, try adding colorful sprinkles directly into the batter. This adds a festive flair that's sure to delight guests of all ages.

Another variation involves flavoring your butter frosting. Consider adding a fruit puree, like raspberry or strawberry, or even a splash of lemon juice for a citrusy zing. These not only change the flavor profile but visually enhance your cake, making it more appealing and unique for every occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, if using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder from the recipe.

→ How can I make the frosting more colorful?

You can add food coloring to the frosting to achieve your desired color.

→ What is the best way to store leftover cake?

Wrap leftover cake in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and frost them on the day you plan to serve.