Description
This Fantastic Vanilla Velvet Cake is a rich, moist, and tender vanilla-flavored cake layered with creamy, fluffy vanilla frosting. Perfect for celebrations or any special occasion, this recipe yields a beautifully layered 3-tier cake that melts in your mouth with its silky texture and classic vanilla taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy using a mixer. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and sour cream to the creamed butter and eggs mixture. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Stir in the vegetable oil to add moisture and tenderness to the cake.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Place pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth, light, and fluffy.
- Frost Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate and frost the top evenly. Stack the second layer on top and spread frosting over it. Repeat with the final layer, then frost the top and sides of the entire cake for a smooth, elegant finish.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light and fluffy cake texture.
- You can substitute buttermilk with milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar if unavailable.
- For best results, chill the frosting slightly if it becomes too soft while spreading.
- This cake is best stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
- Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving if refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
