French Vanilla Cake

Name: French Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Simple Sweet Recipes

Indulge in the delightful flavors of a classic French Vanilla Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:46:20.379Z

This French Vanilla Cake is a delightful treat that combines rich vanilla flavor with a light and fluffy texture. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence, this cake will impress your guests and leave them wanting more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor with a hint of almond
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Beautifully layered for an elegant presentation

      

The Essence of French Vanilla

French Vanilla is more than just a flavor; it's an experience that embodies warmth and comfort. The rich and creamy taste, complemented by a subtle hint of almond, elevates this cake to a new level of indulgence. This delightful combination makes it an ideal choice for celebrations, gatherings, or simply a treat after a long day. When baked, the aroma of vanilla fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws everyone in.

The unique flavor profile of French Vanilla is achieved through a blend of high-quality vanilla and almond extracts. This recipe celebrates that classic taste, ensuring every bite is a reminder of the simple joys of baking. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this cake will inspire you to create something beautiful and delicious, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect French Vanilla Cake, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for the flour and sugar for precision, or spoon and level the flour in a measuring cup to avoid packing it down. This small step can make a significant difference in the cake's texture, ensuring it remains light and airy.

Another tip is to let your butter come to room temperature before creaming it with sugar. Softened butter incorporates more air into the batter, helping the cake rise beautifully. Additionally, don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients; mix just until combined to maintain the cake's fluffy structure. These techniques will help you create a show-stopping dessert that is sure to impress.

Frosting and Decoration Ideas

The frosting for this French Vanilla Cake is as important as the cake itself. A smooth, creamy frosting enhances the cake's flavor and adds an elegant touch. For a beautiful finish, consider using a spatula or a piping bag to create decorative swirls on top. Adding fresh berries or edible flowers can also elevate your cake's presentation, making it perfect for special occasions.

If you're looking to customize the flavor of your frosting, consider incorporating a bit of lemon zest or a splash of espresso. These flavors can complement the vanilla beautifully, creating a uniquely delicious experience. Remember, the key to a stunning cake lies not only in the taste but also in its presentation, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious French Vanilla Cake:

For the Cake

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup whole milk

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your French Vanilla Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread frosting between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake.

Enjoy your homemade French Vanilla Cake!

Storing Your Cake

To keep your French Vanilla Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its shelf life to about a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you've made a large batch or want to prepare in advance, you can freeze the cake. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.

Pairing Suggestions

French Vanilla Cake pairs beautifully with various beverages. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea brings out the cake's warm flavors, making it an ideal afternoon treat. For a more indulgent experience, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving this cake alongside a light fruit salad or a citrus sorbet. The brightness of the fruits can balance the sweetness of the cake, creating a well-rounded dessert experience that your guests will love.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute cake flour for a lighter texture.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of almond extract?

You can omit the almond extract or substitute it with additional vanilla extract.