French Vanilla Cake

Name: French Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2-3 tbsp milk

Highlighted under: SugarAlchemy Kitchen

Indulge in the delicate flavor of this French Vanilla Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:16:20.354Z

This French Vanilla Cake is a delightful dessert that encapsulates the essence of classic French baking. With its rich flavor and light texture, it's a favorite for birthdays, weddings, or just a sweet treat at home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor that delights the senses
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile cake that pairs well with various frostings

      

A Taste of French Elegance

French Vanilla Cake is more than just a dessert; it's a delightful experience that transports you to a quaint Parisian café with every bite. The rich and creamy vanilla flavor captures the essence of classic French pastry-making, making it a perfect centerpiece for any celebration. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake's charm is sure to impress your guests.

The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels extravagant without the need for complicated techniques. The light, airy texture is achieved through proper mixing methods, ensuring that each slice is as delightful as the last. This cake serves as a canvas for various toppings and fillings, making it adaptable to suit any occasion.

Perfect Pairings for Your Cake

One of the standout features of the French Vanilla Cake is its versatility when it comes to frosting and accompaniments. While a classic buttercream frosting is always a hit, consider experimenting with flavored frostings like chocolate ganache, strawberry, or even a citrus glaze. Each option adds a unique flair and enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.

For an added touch of sophistication, you can serve slices of this cake with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea can elevate your dessert experience, making it even more enjoyable. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to personalize your cake to match your taste preferences and the theme of your event.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your French Vanilla Cake turns out perfectly every time, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid packing it into the measuring cup, which can lead to a dense cake. Room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and butter, will blend together more easily, yielding a smoother batter.

Another important tip is to avoid overmixing once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture instead of the desired light and fluffy result. Lastly, allow your cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation. With these tips in mind, you're sure to impress with your baking skills!

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
2-3 tbsp milk

Make sure to use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Combine Ingredients

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

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks. Once completely cool, frost with your favorite frosting.

Enjoy your homemade French Vanilla Cake!

Storing Your Cake

To keep your French Vanilla Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, consider refrigerating it, but be aware that refrigeration can sometimes alter the cake's texture. To maintain its moisture, you might want to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the fridge.

If you have leftover cake, it's also a good idea to freeze it. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This allows you to enjoy a slice of your delicious cake even weeks later. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving to preserve its flavor and texture.

Allergy Considerations

When baking, it's important to consider any allergies that you or your guests may have. For those with gluten sensitivities, substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend can work well in this recipe. Just be sure to follow the specific instructions on the gluten-free flour packaging for the best results.

If you want to make this cake dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. These substitutions can help ensure that everyone can enjoy a slice of this delightful cake, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, using cake flour will give your cake a lighter texture.

→ How should I store the cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture as an egg substitute.