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Classic Vanilla Birthday Cake

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A timeless and fluffy vanilla birthday cake layered with rich buttercream frosting, perfect for celebrations and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
  • For the Buttercream: 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Mix in the sour cream until fully incorporated.
  6. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. To make the buttercream, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla, salt, and heavy cream. Beat until light and fluffy.
  11. Level the cake layers if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides.
  12. Decorate as desired and refrigerate slightly before serving for cleaner slices.

Notes

  • Make sure ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
  • Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light texture.
  • Cake layers can be made a day ahead and stored tightly wrapped.
  • Customize the frosting color with food coloring for themed celebrations.

Nutrition

Keywords: vanilla cake, birthday cake, classic cake, buttercream, celebration

Find it online: https://zesticook.com/classic-vanilla-birthday-cake-2/