Easy Homemade Vanilla Cake Recipe (Step by Step)
This is a soft, fluffy vanilla cake that’s perfect for birthdays, tea time, or any special occasion.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30–35 minutes
Serves: 8–10 people
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour (maida)
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or 100 g melted butter
- 1 cup (200 g) sugar
- 2 large eggs (or ½ cup yogurt for an eggless version)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
Optional
Sprinkles for decoration
2 tbsp chopped nuts
Chocolate chips
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease an 8-inch round cake tin with butter or oil.
- Line the bottom with baking paper if available.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Mixture
In another large bowl:
- Beat the sugar and oil (or melted butter) until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
(For an eggless cake, replace the eggs with yogurt.)
Step 4: Make the Batter
- Add one-third of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Pour in half the milk and mix gently.
- Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients and milk.
- Fold the batter until smooth. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin.
- Tap the tin gently to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes.
To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Step 6: Cool the Cake
Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes.
Transfer it to a wire rack and let it cool completely.
Step 7: Decorate
You can enjoy the cake plain or decorate it with:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate ganache
- Buttercream frosting
- Fresh fruits (such as strawberries, blueberries, or mango)
- Sprinkles
Tips for a Perfect Cake
Avoid opening the oven door during the first 25 minutes of baking.
Measure ingredients accurately.
Bring eggs and milk to room temperature before mixing.
Do not overmix the batter, or the cake may become dense.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Slice)
- Calories: 240–280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Protein: 4–5 g
- Fat: 10–12 g
This recipe makes a light, moist vanilla sponge that can be served on its own or used as the base for birthday and celebration cakes.