Vanilla Small Cake Recipe
The Vanilla Small Cake Recipe is a simple, fluffy dessert with a rich vanilla flavor. Perfect for small gatherings, it’s easy to make and customizable with various frostings or toppings. Whether topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate drizzle, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
- Spatula
- Whisk
- 6-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3/4 cup 79g all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup milk room temperature
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2-3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 6-inch round cake pan.
- Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: Using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three batches, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined after each addition.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely in the pan for at least 30 minutes before frosting or decorating.
- Frosting Magic! While the cake cools, prepare your frosting of choice. For a simple vanilla buttercream, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Beat in vanilla extract and milk until desired consistency is reached.
- Frost and Enjoy! Once the cake is cool, frost the top and sides as desired. Decorate with fresh berries, sprinkles, or chopped nuts for an extra delightful touch.