Make a Old Fashioned Vanilla Birthday Cake Recipe from Scratch
This Old Fashioned Vanilla Birthday Cake Recipe from Scratch is the perfect cozy celebration cake — buttery, golden, and deeply nostalgic. Every slice tastes like a memory, warm from the oven and made with love.
Equipment
- 2 9-inch Cake Pans
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk or Mixer
- Wire Rack
- Offset Spatula
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract pure
- 1 cup whole milk
Vanilla Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.
- Alternately add flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Divide batter between pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely before frosting.
- For frosting: beat butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt. Whip until light and fluffy.
- Frost cake and decorate with sprinkles, fruit, flowers, or a simple swirl. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Great as a birthday cake or nostalgic treat. Layers can be made ahead and frozen. Customize toppings to match the theme — vintage, minimalist, or fun and festive.