What makes the perfect dessert combination? For me, it’s a moist vanilla cake paired with tangy cream cheese frosting, made easy with simple homemade techniques and just a few ingredients like rich cream cheese. Save this idea for your next family favorite treat to make tonight.

Vanilla Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

Baking a delicious cake from scratch can seem daunting, but with the right recipe, it can be a straightforward and enjoyable process. The vanilla cake with cream cheese frosting is a classic combination that never goes out of style, thanks to its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Using everyday ingredients, you can create a moist and flavorful cake, topped with a tangy and creamy frosting that will impress anyone. The best part is that this recipe is incredibly easy to follow and requires minimal special equipment, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this vanilla cake with cream cheese frosting is sure to become a favorite.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in this recipe is key, with the sweetness of the vanilla cake perfectly offset by the tanginess of the cream cheese frosting.
• The ingredients used are readily available and easy to find, making this recipe a great option for last-minute baking needs.
• Despite its impressive results, this recipe requires minimal effort and can be prepared and baked in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cream cheese, and powdered sugar. The flour provides structure and texture to the cake, while the sugar adds sweetness and tenderness. The butter and eggs add moisture and richness, while the vanilla extract provides a subtle flavor boost. The cream cheese and powdered sugar in the frosting add a tangy and creamy element that complements the cake perfectly. If you don’t have any of these ingredients on hand, you can easily substitute them with similar alternatives – for example, you can use salted butter instead of unsalted, or replace the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a slightly different flavor.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder, and set aside. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter until it’s creamy, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
2. Step 2: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Step 3: To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and beat until combined.
4. Step 4: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Decorate as desired and serve.

Handy Tips

• To ensure that your cakes are moist and tender, don’t overmix the batter, and make sure to not overbake them.
• If you’re not using your cakes right away, you can store them in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 3 days, or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To make your frosting extra creamy, make sure to use room temperature cream cheese, and don’t overbeat the mixture.

Heat Control

When baking the cakes, it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature and timing to ensure that they’re cooked to perfection. The ideal temperature for baking cakes is between 325°F (165°C) and 375°F (190°C), and the baking time will depend on the size and thickness of your cakes. As a general rule, bake the cakes for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and check the cakes frequently to avoid overcooking.

Crunch Factor

The texture of the cake and frosting is an essential aspect of this recipe. The cake should be moist and tender, with a subtle crumb that’s not too dense or too light. The frosting should be creamy and smooth, with a subtle tang from the cream cheese. To achieve the perfect texture, make sure to not overmix the batter, and don’t overbake the cakes. Also, use room temperature cream cheese for the frosting, and don’t overbeat the mixture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To ensure that your cakes are perfectly level, use a cake leveler or a serrated knife to trim the tops.
• To make your frosting extra stable, add a tablespoon or two of cornstarch or flour to the mixture and beat until combined.
• To clean your mixing bowls and utensils quickly and efficiently, use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar to wipe down surfaces and remove any stuck-on batter or frosting.

Storage Tips

• To store your cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To store your frosting, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
• To reheat your cake, place it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through, or wrap it in foil and heat it in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you want to give your vanilla cake with cream cheese frosting as a gift, there are several ways to package it beautifully. You can place the cake in a decorative cake box or tin, or wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and tie with a ribbon. You can also add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or card with the gift. Another idea is to package the cake in a mason jar or airtight container, along with a scoop or serving utensil, for a charming and rustic presentation.

Flavor Variations

• To add a different twist to your cake, try substituting the vanilla extract with almond extract, or adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
• To change up the flavor of your frosting, try adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest, or using a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or mascarpone.
• To add some extra texture and flavor to your cake, try adding some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or some dried fruit, such as cranberries or cherries.

Troubleshooting

• If your cakes are too dense or heavy, it may be because you overmixed the batter or overbaked the cakes. Try reducing the mixing time and checking the cakes frequently to avoid overcooking.
• If your frosting is too thin or runny, it may be because you added too much cream cheese or didn’t beat the mixture enough. Try adding more powdered sugar or beating the mixture for a few more minutes to thicken it up.
• If your cake is too dry or crumbly, it may be because you overbaked it or didn’t use enough liquid ingredients. Try reducing the baking time and adding a little more milk or buttermilk to the batter.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Is the cake gluten-free? No, the cake contains all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or coconut flour.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the vanilla cake with cream cheese frosting is a classic recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With its moist and tender cake, creamy and tangy frosting, and perfect balance of flavors, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to impress your friends and family with your baking skills. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious results!