Vanilla Velvet Cake is a classic, elegant dessert that epitomizes the art of baking with its tender crumb and refined flavor. Known for its soft, velvety texture, this cake offers a delightful and luxurious experience with every bite, making it a perfect centerpiece for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal celebrations.
The Vanilla Velvet Cake boasts a moist and airy crumb, achieved through a meticulous balance of ingredients and technique. The cake’s texture is incredibly light, almost melting in your mouth, which is a hallmark of its “velvet” quality. This velvety texture is complemented by a pure, rich vanilla flavor that shines through, making it a timeless favorite for those who appreciate the classic simplicity of vanilla.
The cake is beautifully balanced with a delicate sweetness that enhances its flavor without overwhelming it. This subtle sweetness pairs perfectly with a variety of frostings, but it is especially delightful when adorned with a luscious vanilla buttercream. The frosting, with its creamy and smooth consistency, beautifully contrasts with the soft cake layers, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Vanilla Velvet Cake is often finished with elegant decorations, such as fresh berries, edible flowers, or delicate piping, making it not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The versatility of this cake means it can be customized to suit any theme or occasion, from sophisticated wedding cakes to charming birthday cakes.
Whether enjoyed as a simple dessert or dressed up with elaborate decorations, Vanilla Velvet Cake embodies the essence of classic baking with its light, moist texture and pure vanilla flavor. It’s a cake that offers both comfort and elegance, making it a beloved choice for those who cherish traditional flavors presented in a refined manner.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (optional for added moisture)
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- For Decoration (optional):
- Fresh berries or edible flowers
- Additional vanilla or cream cheese frosting for piping
- Sprinkles or decorative sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Pans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Add Oil (Optional):
- If using, fold in the vegetable oil to the batter to add extra moisture.
- Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Increase speed and beat until fluffy.
- Add the heavy cream or milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Decorate (Optional):
- Garnish with fresh berries, edible flowers, or additional decorative elements as desired.
- Use piping bags with various tips to create decorative frosting designs if desired.
- Serve:
- Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing to let the frosting firm up.
Tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for best results. This helps in achieving a smooth and even batter.
- Sifting Flour: Sift the flour before measuring to avoid a dense cake and to ensure accurate measurement.
- Cooling: Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Frosting Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the frosting by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency or more cream/milk for a lighter, creamier texture.
Enjoy your Vanilla Velvet Cake, a delightful and elegant dessert that features a tender, velvety crumb and a classic vanilla flavor, perfect for any celebration or as a sweet treat!
