Sourdough Vanilla Cake Recipe || Sweet And Tangy

I first stumbled upon the idea of making a sourdough vanilla cake recipe when I had extra starter on hand and didn’t feel like baking bread.

Curious and a little skeptical, I gave sourdough vanilla cake recipe a try and was surprised by how tender and flavorful the cake turned out.

The subtle tang from the sourdough added a depth I hadn’t expected in a simple vanilla cake. sourdough vanilla cake recipe quickly became a favorite in my kitchen, especially because it used something I’d normally discard.

The process felt surprisingly simple, yet the result was rich and satisfying. I loved how the sourdough added depth without overpowering the classic vanilla taste. Sharing it with friends and family quickly turned it into a requested favorite.

Now, it’s a go-to sourdough vanilla cake recipe in my kitchen, especially when I want something that feels a little special, made from something as humble as sourdough.

Why You Will Use Sourdough In Baking?

Sourdough isn’t just for bread lovers. It brings a whole new dimension to cakes by adding moisture, texture, and a slight tang that cuts through the sweetness, making the cake richer and more balanced.

It provides a slight tangy aftertaste and helps to naturally ferment the batter, which can improve digestion for some people.

Additionally, the fermentation process can lower the glycemic index of baked goods, making them slightly healthier than their traditional counterparts.

How To Prepare Sourdough Vanilla Cake Recipe?

⏱ Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Yield: 8 servings

🔪 Kitchen Utensils Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pans (2 x 8-inch or 1 x 9×13-inch)
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula (for frosting)

📋 Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed or unfed)
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup buttermilk (or whole milk)

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon salt

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Mix in the Sourdough Starter

Add the sourdough starter and mix until fully incorporated. The batter might look a bit curdled—this is normal.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 6: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare and Frost

To make the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla, salt, and cream until smooth and fluffy. Once cakes are fully cooled, frost and assemble as desired.

Special Note

Feel free to customize this sourdough vanilla cake recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips or citrus zest. The sourdough adds a wonderful depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with various additions.

Serving Ideas

A great way to serve this sourdough vanilla cake recipe is by pairing it with a side of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream.

For an extra burst of flavor, top it off with fresh berries or a fruit compote. If you’re looking to add a bit of crunch, a sprinkle of toasted nuts can elevate the texture.

This sourdough vanilla cake recipe also works wonderfully when served alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal treat for both casual and more formal gatherings.

Tips For Baking

Once you’ve chosen a sourdough vanilla cake recipe, keep these tips in mind to ensure your cake turns out beautifully:

1. Make sure your sourdough starter is fed and bubbly before you begin. If it’s been in the fridge, take it out a few hours ahead of baking to ensure it’s active.

2. Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale for the best results, particularly for flour.

3. Allow eggs, butter, and any dairy to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.

4. When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

5. Use a toothpick to check if your cake is done. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready.

6. Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy.

How It Works In Baking

Sourdough works by slowly fermenting the sugars in the flour, which produces gas bubbles. These bubbles cause the cake to rise naturally without the need for additional leavening agents.

This process also develops the sourdough vanilla cake recipe texture, making it lighter and more delicate. The slow fermentation process enhances not just the flavor but also the texture of the cake.

Sourdough adds moisture and a tender crumb, while also creating a slightly chewy bite that distinguishes it from regular cakes.

How To Store Sourdough Vanilla Cake Recipe

To store sourdough vanilla cake recipe, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its moisture.

Alternatively, you can place it in an airtight container. For short-term storage, keep it at room temperature for up to three days.

If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing individual slices or the whole cake; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

I hope this sourdough vanilla cake recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. It’s amazing how something as simple as sourdough starter can transform into a soft, flavorful dessert that everyone loves.

Each time I bake it, it reminds me that great things can come from everyday ingredients. If you’re looking for a unique twist on a classic vanilla cake, this sourdough vanilla cake recipe is truly worth a try.

Enjoy every bite, and may your baking journey continue to be fun, creative, and full of sweet surprises.

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