Vanilla cake

If you're seeking a moist and flavorful vanilla cake, here's a highly acclaimed recipe that has been praised for its soft crumb and rich vanilla taste.

Ingredients:

• 2½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour

• 2½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 1¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar

• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

• 4 large eggs, at room temperature

• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract

• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.

2. Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sugar, vegetable oil, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to ensure a tender crumb.

5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Frosting Suggestion:

A classic vanilla buttercream pairs wonderfully with this cake.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Beat Butter: In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy and pale.

2. Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. Flavor and Consistency: Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Pour in the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Beat on high speed for an additional 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Assembly:

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top.

2. Place the second cake layer on top and apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) over the entire cake. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes to set.

3. Apply the remaining frosting, decorating as desired.

Enjoy baking and savoring this classic vanilla cake!