Decadent Vanilla Layer Cake

Name: Decadent Vanilla Layer Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp heavy cream; 1 tbsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Recipes

I can't tell you how satisfying it is to create a stunning layer cake from scratch! The rich aroma of vanilla fills the kitchen as the cakes bake, making every moment worth it. This Decadent Vanilla Layer Cake is perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat for myself. With its fluffy layers and creamy frosting, it's a delightful indulgence I look forward to making time and time again. Once you try this recipe, you'll understand why it has become a cherished part of my baking repertoire.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:21:10.774Z

When I first decided to make a layer cake, I was both excited and a little intimidated. I tried different recipes until I found the perfect balance of moistness and flavor in this decadently vanilla cake. The trick is to beat the batter well to incorporate air for fluffy layers. I also recommend using high-quality vanilla for the best taste.

As the cake was cooling, I whipped up an airy buttercream frosting. I discovered that if you let the butter soften too much, it can become too greasy, so be sure to leave it out for just the right amount of time. The result was a cake that not only looks incredible but tastes like a slice of heaven!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fluffy layers that melt in your mouth
Rich vanilla flavor with every bite
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration

The Foundation of Flavor

When baking this Decadent Vanilla Layer Cake, the quality of your ingredients is crucial for achieving that rich vanilla flavor. I recommend using pure vanilla extract instead of imitation for the best results. The natural oils from real vanilla will enhance the aroma and taste, making every bite sing with sweetness. Additionally, using high-quality, unsalted butter helps to create that light and airy texture that this cake is known for, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

The choice of all-purpose flour in the cake gives it the right balance of structure and tenderness. If you want to experiment, you can try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with a lighter cake flour. This will yield an even softer crumb, perfect for special occasions. Keep in mind that too much flour can lead to a dense cake, so measure carefully and use the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping directly from the bag.

Frosting Mastery

The buttercream frosting is what truly elevates this layer cake. To achieve a light and fluffy consistency, ensure that your butter is not too cold or melted. Room temperature butter works best, allowing it to whip easily into a glossy texture. After adding the powdered sugar, mix on low speed to avoid a cloud of sugar dust, and gradually increase the speed for an even blend. If your frosting seems too thick, add a touch more heavy cream, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired spreadability.

For a decorative touch, consider adding a few drops of food coloring to your buttercream to match a specific theme or occasion. You can also infuse your buttercream with flavors such as almond extract or lemon zest for a twist on the classic taste. Don't forget to save some frosting for decorative piping on top of your cake, which will make it look professionally finished and add an extra layer of sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth baking process.

For the Cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup milk

For the Buttercream Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy cream
1 tbsp vanilla extract

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat your oven and prepare your baking pans before starting.

Prepare the Oven and Pans

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamy mixture, alternating with the milk until well combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting with buttercream.

Serve your cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

Make sure to use room temperature ingredients
they mix better and lead to a fluffier cake. If you're short on time, you can prepare the cake a day ahead and frost it the next day.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the wonderful aspects of this layer cake is its make-ahead potential. You can bake the cake layers in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to two days. Alternatively, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, thaw the layers overnight in the fridge, and they’ll be perfect for frosting the next day.

The buttercream frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to take it out for about 30 minutes before using to soften it slightly, then give it a quick whip to restore its fluffy texture. This way, when you're ready to assemble your cake, everything is ready, making the process much quicker and stress-free.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake layers dome while baking, it could be due to the oven temperature being set too high. Always check with an oven thermometer to ensure that your oven is accurate. If they do dome, don’t worry; simply level them with a serrated knife once they have cooled. This will ensure an even cake when stacked and frosted.

Another common issue is a dry cake. This can happen if the cake is overbaked or if there wasn’t enough fat or moisture. Always use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean but not dry. You might also consider adding a couple of tablespoons of yogurt or sour cream to the batter to enhance moisture without affecting the flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! You can bake the layers a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture as a vegan alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted layers for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping tightly.