Vanilla Bourbon Cake – Slice of Heaven

Vanilla Bourbon Cake stands out because of its rich flavor and ability to suit a wide range of tastes. Every time I bake it, the sweet aroma fills the kitchen and sets the tone for something special.

The bourbon adds a smooth depth that makes the vanilla shine even more. It’s a cake that never feels too simple or too heavy.

I’ve served it at birthdays, dinners, and small gatherings, and it always gets a great reaction. Vanilla Bourbon Cake flavor is bold but not overwhelming, making it easy to pair with different frostings or toppings.

I like how easily it adapts without losing its character. The texture is soft yet sturdy, which makes Vanilla Bourbon Cake easy to slice and serve. It’s become a favorite in my baking routine because it never disappoints.

How To Prepare Vanilla Bourbon Cake

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: ~1 hour 25 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 14 servings

Calories: ~630 kcal per serving (varies based on slice size and buttercream quantity)

Kitchen Utensils Needed

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 10-inch bundt pan or two 9-inch round cake pans
• Sifter or fine mesh sieve
• Wire cooling rack
• Offset spatula (for frosting)

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ½ cup (96 g) Crisco shortening
• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar, firmly packed
• 5 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons bourbon (e.g., Woodford Reserve)
• 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour, sifted
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup (60 ml) vegetable oil
• ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons (205 ml) whole milk, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

For the Bourbon Vanilla Buttercream:

• 3 cups (680 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1¼ cups (150 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 4–6 tablespoons bourbon (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

How To Make Vanilla Bourbon Cake

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour your cake pan(s), or line with parchment if using rounds.

2. In a large bowl, cream the butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy, about 4–5 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Add the bourbon and mix until combined.

3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another small bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.

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

5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s). Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Beat butter until creamy, about 3 minutes. Add sifted powdered sugar, bourbon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whip until fluffy. Frost the cooled cake using an offset spatula.

Why We Love This Recipe

We love this Vanilla Bourbon Cake because it brings together rich, comforting flavors in a simple yet elegant way. The combination of smooth vanilla and warm bourbon creates a depth that feels both familiar and indulgent.

The Vanilla Bourbon Cake has a soft, moist crumb that holds up beautifully, making it easy to bake, slice, and enjoy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never feels ordinary, and the butter cream adds a creamy, flavorful finish.

Each time it’s made, it delivers consistent results and plenty of compliments. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a classic from the very first bite.

What Is The Best Serving Ideas?

For the best serving ideas, enjoy Vanilla Bourbon Cake as it is for a simple yet decadent treat, or dress it up with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an added touch of elegance.

Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a more festive presentation, drizzle with a bourbon caramel sauce or top with toasted nuts to enhance the flavor profile.

Whether served on its own or with accompaniments, this cake always shines as the star of the dessert table.

Expert Tips

➢ Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter and a lighter, fluffier cake.

➢ The bourbon is a key flavor in this cake, so choose a high-quality brand that you enjoy drinking. This will give your cake a deeper, more refined taste.

➢ Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt ensures there are no lumps and allows for a smoother batter, helping the cake rise evenly.

➢ Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake.

➢ Before frosting, let the cake cool fully. Frosting a warm cake can cause the buttercream to melt and slide off.

Optional Add-In’s And Variations

1. Chocolate Chips or Chunks: Add ½ to 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, chocolatey contrast to the bourbon flavor.

2. Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or almonds can be folded into the batter for added texture and a nutty depth that pairs wonderfully with the vanilla and bourbon.

3. Citrus Zest: Adding the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter can bring a refreshing citrus note that complements the richness of the bourbon.

4. Dried Fruit: Dried cherries, cranberries, or raisins can add a chewy, fruity element that enhances the cake’s flavor profile.

5. Spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a touch of cardamom to the batter for extra warmth and depth, giving the cake a spiced twist.

6. Coffee or Espresso: Replace part of the milk with brewed coffee or espresso for a mocha twist that enhances the bourbon and vanilla flavors.

How To Store The Finished Cake

To store the finished Vanilla Bourbon Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

If you need to store it longer, place the cake in the refrigerator, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For extra freshness, you can wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil. If the cake is not frosted, it can be stored in a sealed container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 5 days.

For longer storage, freeze the Vanilla Bourbon Cake in an airtight container or wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 months.

(FAQs) About The Vanilla Bourbon Cake

Conclusion

This Vanilla Bourbon Cake has been an easy success every time, bringing joy to those I share it with. Its flavor, texture, and consistency have made it a reliable favorite in my kitchen.

I hope others enjoy making Vanilla Bourbon Cake as much as I do and find the same happiness in every slice.