French Vanilla Cake

Name: French Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole milk; 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Gourmet Baking Bliss

Delight in the classic flavor of a French Vanilla Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:58:19.862Z

This French Vanilla Cake is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With its rich and buttery flavor, it’s a favorite for birthdays, weddings, and everything in between.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Lush vanilla flavor that transports you to a Parisian patisserie
Moist and tender crumb that pairs beautifully with any frosting
Versatile enough to be dressed up for special occasions or enjoyed simply with a cup of coffee

      

The Allure of French Vanilla

French vanilla is a beloved flavor that evokes nostalgia and comfort. This cake captures that essence with its rich, creamy notes and a hint of warmth. It's not just a dessert; it's an experience that transports you to a quaint café in Paris, where every bite is infused with the magic of freshly baked goods. The allure of this cake lies in its simplicity, yet it delivers a complex flavor that can easily impress your guests.

Incorporating high-quality vanilla extract elevates this cake to a new level. The aroma of vanilla wafting through your kitchen as the cake bakes is a sensory delight that makes the process worthwhile. Using real vanilla rather than imitation enhances the flavor profile, ensuring that each slice is bursting with authentic taste. When the cake is paired with a delicate frosting, it becomes a true masterpiece that you can be proud to serve on any occasion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the most appealing aspects of the French Vanilla Cake is its versatility. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or a casual gathering with friends, this cake fits seamlessly into any event. You can dress it up with elaborate decorations for special occasions or keep it simple for an afternoon tea. The moist texture and delightful flavor make it a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Imagine serving this cake at your next family gathering, garnished with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar. It becomes a centerpiece that invites conversation and compliments. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. The French Vanilla Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a way to create lasting memories with loved ones.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your French Vanilla Cake turns out perfectly, it's essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even small discrepancies can affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar. Additionally, room temperature ingredients blend together more smoothly, so take your butter and eggs out of the refrigerator ahead of time.

Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light and fluffy texture we desire. Gently fold the ingredients until just combined to ensure your cake rises beautifully. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to prevent overbaking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your French Vanilla Cake:

Cake Ingredients

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

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your perfect French Vanilla Cake:

Prepare the Oven and Pans

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding the vanilla extract with the last egg.

Combine with Dry Ingredients

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

Bake the Cake

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

Cool and Frost

Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Once your cake is cooled, you can frost it with your favorite frosting!

Serving Suggestions

This French Vanilla Cake can be served in numerous delightful ways. A classic choice is to layer it with a rich vanilla buttercream frosting, which complements the cake's flavor perfectly. For a refreshing twist, consider pairing it with a tangy lemon curd or a berry compote. The tartness of the fruits contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds.

If you're looking for a more decadent option, drizzle a warm chocolate ganache over the top. The richness of the chocolate enhances the overall taste experience, making it an unforgettable dessert. Don't forget to serve it with a side of freshly brewed coffee or tea to round out the experience, as the warmth of the beverage pairs wonderfully with the cake.

Storage Tips

Storing your French Vanilla Cake properly is essential for maintaining its freshness. If you have leftover cake, keep it covered at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a week. If you want to keep it even longer, consider freezing it. Slice the cake and wrap each piece individually before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen cake, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gentle thawing process preserves the cake's moisture and flavor. You can also warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds for a cozy treat that tastes freshly baked.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, using cake flour will result in a lighter texture.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

→ What frosting works best with this cake?

Buttercream frosting pairs perfectly with the vanilla flavors, but cream cheese frosting is also a great choice.