Classic Vanilla Cake Recipe | How to Make Birthday Cake

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making a classic vanilla cake, perfect for birthdays or any celebration. With a soft and moist texture, this cake is enhanced by a rich cream cheese frosting and colorful confetti sprinkles. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Step 1: Prepare to Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans with parchment paper and grease the bottoms and sides to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a mixing bowl, sift together the following:
  • 2 1/3 cups (290g) flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Stir to combine and set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together:
  • 1/2 cup (115g) softened butter
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) sugar
• Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
• Add 3 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in:
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) oil
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Beat until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Mix the Batter

• Gradually add the dry mixture and 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk to the butter mixture.
• Start by adding half of the flour mixture, followed by half of the buttermilk.
• Repeat this process, mixing until everything is fully incorporated after each addition.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5-10 minutes.
• Carefully release them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

• In a large mixing bowl, beat together:
  • 1 ¾ cups (400g) cream cheese
  • 2/3 cup (150g) softened butter
• Mix until smooth.
• Add:
  • 1 ¼ cups (160g) icing sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Beat until the mixture is creamy.
• In a separate bowl, whip:
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) cold heavy cream
• Beat until stiff peaks form, then gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

• Place one layer of the cake flat side down on a serving plate.
• Spread a layer of frosting on top.
• Place the second layer of cake on top, flat side up.
• Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake.
• Decorate the edges with confetti sprinkles for a festive touch.

Step 9: Chill Before Serving

• Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the frosting to set.

Conclusion

You’ve now made a delicious classic vanilla cake with cream cheese frosting that's perfect for any celebration. Enjoy this cake as a delightful dessert, and feel free to experiment with different decorations or flavor variations. Happy baking!