Description
Mom’s Best Cake is a classic, moist, and fluffy vanilla cake with a creamy vanilla buttercream frosting. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this recipe balances sweetness and softness to delight every palate.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar (depending on desired thickness)
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (more if needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then invert onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Adjust consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
- Frost the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer over it and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing the sides and top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve the cake at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk or substitute with buttermilk.
- Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
- The frosting consistency can be adjusted to your preference by altering powdered sugar and milk quantities.
- The cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
