How to Make Cake from Scratch Vanilla: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making cake from scratch vanilla is a rewarding experience that requires attention to detail, patience, and practice. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn the essential steps to create a delicious and moist vanilla cake from scratch.
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start mixing, make sure you have the following ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (235ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Step 2: Preheating the Oven and Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
| Step | Time | Task |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven | Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) |
| 2 | Grease pans | Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans |
| 3 | Line pans | Line pans with parchment paper |
Step 3: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
| Step | Time | Task |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Whisk dry ingredients | Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt |
| 2 | Set aside | Set aside for later use |
Step 4: Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, butter, and vanilla extract.
| Step | Time | Task |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Whisk wet ingredients | Whisk together milk, butter, and vanilla extract |
| 2 | Set aside | Set aside for later use |
Step 5: Combining the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
| Step | Time | Task |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mix wet and dry ingredients | Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined |
| 2 | Scrape down sides | Scrape down sides of bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated |
Step 6: Adding the Egg Yolks
Add the egg yolks to the mixture and mix until well combined.
| Step | Time | Task |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mix egg yolks | Mix egg yolks until well combined |
| 2 | Scrape down sides | Scrape down sides of bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated |
Step 7: Folding in the Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold the egg whites into the mixture until no white streaks remain.
| Step | Time | Task |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fold egg whites | Fold egg whites into mixture until no white streaks remain |
| 2 | Scrape down sides | Scrape down sides of bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated |
Step 8: Pouring the Batter into the Pans
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
| Step | Time | Task |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pour batter | Pour batter evenly into prepared pans |
| 2 | Smooth top | Smooth top of batter |
Step 9: Baking the Cakes
Bake the cakes for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
| Step | Time | Task |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bake cakes | Bake cakes for 30-35 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean |
| 2 | Check for doneness | Check for doneness by inserting toothpick into center of cake |
Step 10: Cooling the Cakes
Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 5 minutes.
| Step | Time | Task |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Remove from pans | Remove cakes from pans and transfer to wire rack to cool |
| 2 | Let cool | Let cakes cool in pans for 5 minutes |
Step 11: Assembling and Decorating the Cakes
Once the cakes are completely cool, you can assemble and decorate them as desired.
| Step | Time | Task |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assemble cakes | Assemble cakes by placing one cake on a serving plate |
| 2 | Decorate cakes | Decorate cakes with your favorite frosting and decorations |
Tips and Variations
- To ensure a moist cake, don’t overmix the batter.
- Use room temperature ingredients for better results.
- Experiment with different flavor combinations, such as adding nuts or chocolate chips.
- For a layer cake, repeat the process to create multiple layers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake.
- Not greasing the pans properly can cause the cakes to stick.
- Not checking the cakes for doneness can result in a cake that’s underbaked or overbaked.
Conclusion
Making cake from scratch vanilla is a rewarding experience that requires attention to detail and practice. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and moist vanilla cake from scratch. Remember to experiment with different flavor combinations and techniques to create your own unique cake creations. Happy baking!