Who doesn’t love a slice of perfectly soft, spongy vanilla cake?
This cake, with its melt-in-the-mouth texture and simple preparation, is a delightful treat for any occasion.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, this recipe by @ayeshascooks is designed to be easy to follow, ensuring that you can create a delicious cake with minimal fuss.
Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this soft and spongy vanilla cake:
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup oil (vegetable oil works well)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 40g butter
These ingredients are straightforward and probably already in your kitchen, making this cake both accessible and budget-friendly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the 2 eggs, 3/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Use a stand mixer or an electric hand mixer to whisk the ingredients together. Mix until the mixture becomes thick and pale in color. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which helps in achieving that soft and spongy texture.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- Sift the 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder into the egg mixture. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix until just combined, ensuring not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
Step 2: Prepare the Milk Mixture
- Boil the Milk:
- In a small saucepan, bring 1/2 cup of milk to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the 40g of butter to the milk and stir until the butter has completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Incorporate the Milk Mixture:
- Gradually pour the hot milk and butter mixture into the batter. Mix well until the batter is smooth and well combined. The heat from the milk helps to create a light and airy texture in the cake.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Prepare the Baking Tin:
- Grease a baking tin with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the cake once baked. You can also line the tin with parchment paper for added ease.
- Pour and Bake:
- Pour the smooth batter into the prepared baking tin, spreading it evenly.
- Place the tin in an oven preheated to 170°C (340°F). Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool and Enjoy
- Cool the Cake:
- Once the cake is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tin for a few minutes.
- After a short cooling period, gently remove the cake from the tin and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Serve:
- Slice the cake and enjoy its soft, spongy texture. This vanilla cake is perfect on its own, but you can also top it with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries for added flavor and presentation.
Bonus: Cupcake Variation
If you prefer individual servings or want to make this cake for a party, you can easily turn this recipe into cupcakes.
- Cupcake Preparation:
- Follow the same steps to prepare the batter.
- Instead of a large baking tin, pour the batter into a cupcake tin lined with paper cupcake liners.
- Fill each liner about two-thirds full.
- Bake at the same temperature (170°C/340°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and milk are at room temperature before starting. This helps the ingredients to combine more smoothly and evenly.
- Proper Mixing: Be gentle when folding in the dry ingredients to maintain the airiness of the batter. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. If the skewer comes out with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
Conclusion
Making a soft and spongy vanilla cake is easier than you might think.
With this step-by-step guide, you can whip up a delicious cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Its melt-in-the-mouth texture and delightful vanilla flavor are sure to impress your family and friends.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of homemade heaven.
Happy baking!