Decadent Vanilla Layer Cake

Name: Decadent Vanilla Layer Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 cups unsalted butter, softened; 6 cups powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipe Collection

I absolutely adore baking this Decadent Vanilla Layer Cake whenever I have something to celebrate or simply when I need a sweet pick-me-up. The layers of soft, fluffy vanilla sponge paired with rich, creamy frosting create a dessert experience that's hard to resist. I love how versatile it is—whether it's for a birthday or an afternoon tea, this cake never fails to impress. With just the right amount of sweetness and a touch of vanilla goodness, it’s truly a treat worth indulging in all year round.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:42:28.326Z

When I first attempted making a layered cake, I wanted something simple yet impressive. I relied on high-quality vanilla extract and made sure to incorporate a touch of buttermilk to keep the layers moist and flavorful. This combination resulted in a cake that not only looked beautiful but also had a delightful balance of sweetness that was just right.

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the frosting technique I learned: allowing the butter to soften at room temperature before whipping it with the sugar creates a light and airy texture. It’s this attention to detail that makes the cake not just taste amazing but look stunning on any dessert table.

Why You'll Love This Cake
Lush vanilla flavor that sings through every bite
Light, fluffy texture that just melts in your mouth
Perfect centerpiece for any gathering or celebration

Understanding the Ingredients

The flour and sugar form the backbone of your cake, providing structure and sweetness. It's crucial to measure your flour correctly—using a spoon to fluff it up and then gently scooping it into your measuring cup can prevent a dense cake. In this recipe, the combination of all-purpose flour with the leavening agents allows for a light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy frosting.

Using softened butter is key for creating a light and fluffy batter. I recommend letting it sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start baking. Cold butter can hinder the creaming process, which is essential for incorporating air into the cake batter. By properly creaming the butter and sugar together, you ensure that the cake rises beautifully and has a tender crumb.

Baking Techniques

When baking the layers, it’s important to keep an eye on your cakes as ovens can vary. Aim for a golden brown color on the edges, and when you insert a toothpick in the center, it should come out clean—check for doneness around the 25-minute mark. If your cakes domed in the center, gently press the top with a clean kitchen towel while they cool to create a flat surface for stacking and frosting.

After cooling the cakes in the pan for about 10 minutes, transferring them to a wire rack is essential. This allows them to cool evenly and prevents sogginess. If your cakes stick to the pans, you can run a knife around the edges to loosen them or lightly tap the bottom of the pan after inverting it. Avoiding overbaking is crucial; otherwise, the cake can become dry, which would compromise the overall enjoyment of this decadent treat.

Frosting and Decorating Tips

The key to a smooth, spreadable frosting lies in the proper ratio of butter to powdered sugar. Start by adding the sugar gradually to avoid a cloud of sugar dust in your kitchen. If your frosting is too thick, the heavy cream can help reach the perfect consistency—just a tablespoon at a time until you see the desired fluffiness. I recommend beating it on high speed for at least 2 minutes to achieve that velvety texture.

For decorating, a simple but elegant touch can elevate your vanilla layer cake. Consider adding fresh berries or edible flowers for a pop of color and freshness. To achieve an even layer of frosting, consider using a cake scraper or offset spatula to smooth the frosting around the sides and top. Keep the cake chilled for about 30 minutes before slicing to help maintain clean edges and ensure it holds its shape beautifully during serving.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delicious cake:

For the Cake

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk

For the Frosting

2 cups unsalted butter, softened
6 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect layered cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, incorporating the vanilla and buttermilk until well mixed. Gradually add the dry ingredients until just combined.

Bake the Layers

Divide the batter evenly between three prepared 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until blended. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, adjusting the consistency as needed. Beat on high speed until fluffy and smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and repeat. Top with the last layer and cover the entire cake with frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Decorate and Serve

Feel free to decorate the top of the cake with sprinkles, fresh fruit, or edible flowers as desired. Slice and enjoy your Decadent Vanilla Layer Cake!

Make sure to share your creation with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra moist cake, you can brush each cake layer with a simple syrup before frosting. This will add flavor and keep the cake fresh for longer.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

If you want to prepare ahead of time, the cake layers can be baked a day in advance. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. This keeps them moist. You can also frost the cake a few hours before serving; just be sure to keep it in the refrigerator if your kitchen tends to be warm.

Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the unfrosted cake layers. They can be frozen for up to three months—just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting for the best results.

Variations on the Classic

Feel free to customize this vanilla layer cake with different flavors by adding citrus zest, almond extract, or even a hint of coconut. To make a chocolate version, substitute a portion of the flour for cocoa powder, and adjust the sugar accordingly. This decadence pairs well with chocolate frosting, creating a completely different cake experience while keeping the same soft texture.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using a reduced sugar substitute or coconut flour. Note that some adjustments might be required regarding the liquid content when you're doing so. Additionally, try incorporating layers of fruit preserves or a fresh fruit filling between the layers for a bright contrast that complements the vanilla perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, using cake flour will give you an even lighter texture, but you may need to adjust the quantity slightly.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake layers?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a buttermilk substitute.