Best French Vanilla Cake Recipe – Moist, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
Indulge in the ultimate French Vanilla Cake, a classic dessert that’s moist, rich, and bursting with vanilla flavor. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a simple treat, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a stunning result every time.
Prep & cook Time: 50 minutes | Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per slice
Ingredients
2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract (or French vanilla extract for enhanced flavor)
1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature
½ cup (120ml) sour cream, room temperature
Directions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Fold in Sour Cream: Gently fold in the sour cream until the batter is smooth and evenly mixed.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use vanilla extract instead of French vanilla extract?
Yes, you can use regular vanilla extract, but French vanilla extract has a richer, more custard-like flavor that enhances the cake.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake layers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for up to a month.
3. Can I use a different type of milk?
Whole milk is recommended for the best texture, but you can use 2% milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk if needed.
4. Why is sour cream used in this recipe?
Sour cream adds moisture and richness to the cake, ensuring a tender crumb.
5. How do I store leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Tools You'll Need
Two 9-inch round cake pans
Mixing bowls (medium and large)
Electric mixer or stand mixer
Whisk
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Wire cooling rack
Tips
Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and a smooth batter.
Don’t overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients to avoid a dense cake.
For an extra touch, brush the cooled cake layers with a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) to keep them moist.
Decorate with a vanilla buttercream frosting and fresh berries for a stunning presentation.
Allergy Information
Contains: Wheat, Eggs, Milk, Butter
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with vegan butter, milk with almond milk, and sour cream with dairy-free yogurt.
Conclusion
This French Vanilla Cake is a timeless dessert that’s sure to impress. With its moist texture, rich vanilla flavor, and simple preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is designed to help you succeed. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your beautiful creations with friends and family. Happy baking!
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