Classic Vanilla Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Introduction
This stunning Vanilla Layer Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a moment. Picture this: light, moist vanilla cake layers, each brushed with love, sandwiched with a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s a celebration cake. A birthday cake. A just-because-you-deserve-it cake. Whether it’s for a cozy evening with tea or a big bash, this cake never disappoints.
Lovera (Love Era) — The Story Behind the Slice
This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family. My grandma used to call it the “Sunday Cake” because she’d bake it every Sunday when all the kids and grandkids gathered. No matter what kind of week we had, one bite of her vanilla cake made everything feel alright. Now I make it for loved ones and friends, and it still works like a warm hug in dessert form.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temp)
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk (room temp)
- ½ cup sour cream (adds major moistness!)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temp)
- 16 oz cream cheese (room temp)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional: white chocolate shavings or toasted coconut for topping.
Instructions & Method
Cake Layers:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 mins).
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: One by one, beat in the eggs. Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- Add Sour Cream: Mix in sour cream until just combined.
- Alternate Mixing: Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk, alternating between the two. Start and end with dry.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the pans. Bake for 22–28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool: Let cakes cool in pans for 10 mins, then flip onto racks to cool completely.
Frosting:
- Cream It Up: Beat butter and cream cheese until super smooth.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar while beating.
- Flavor: Add vanilla extract and salt. Beat for another minute until fluffy.
Assemble:
- Layer It: Place one cake layer down, spread frosting on top. Repeat until all layers are stacked.
- Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting to trap crumbs. Chill for 15 mins.
- Final Frosting: Frost the whole cake beautifully. Decorate with shavings, coconut, or sprinkles.
Benefits
- Mood Boosting: Vanilla’s aroma is calming and comforting.
- Cream Cheese: A source of healthy fats and protein (in moderation).
- Made from Scratch: No preservatives or artificial flavors—just homemade love.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Builds bonds and makes memories.
- Nutritional Info (Per Slice, approx. 1/12 of cake)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~490 |
| Total Fat | 29g |
| Saturated Fat | 17g |
| Carbohydrates | 56g |
| Sugars | 38g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fiber | <1g |
| Calcium | 80mg |
Note: It’s an indulgent treat—meant for joy, not guilt.
Formation Tips
- Room Temp Ingredients: Always ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temp for even mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Just combine until smooth to keep that sponge airy.
- Chill Before Slicing: Want clean slices like the one in your photo? Chill the cake for 20–30 mins before cutting.
Conclusion
This Vanilla Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just cake—it’s comfort, tradition, and joy baked into every bite. It’s perfect for birthdays, bridal showers, or simply when your soul needs a pick-me-up. Whether you follow the exact recipe or put your spin on it, this cake is bound to become a star in your kitchen.