A vanilla cake with chocolate frosting is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Its fluffy, moist cake paired with rich, creamy frosting is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. This guide shares an easy recipe to create this timeless treat at home.
The simplicity of vanilla cake lets the decadent chocolate frosting shine. You don’t need to be a pro baker to make this dessert. With basic ingredients and clear steps, you’ll have a stunning cake in no time.
Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or a sweet indulgence, this cake is sure to impress. We’ll cover everything from baking to decorating, plus tips for success. Let’s get started on making a vanilla cake with chocolate frosting that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Cake Recipe
This vanilla cake with chocolate frosting recipe delivers a soft, fluffy cake with a rich, velvety topping. It’s easy to make, taking about an hour from start to finish. The combination of flavors is universally loved, making it ideal for any event.
The cake is moist and tender, while the frosting adds a decadent chocolatey touch. It’s budget-friendly, using pantry staples you likely already have. This dessert is perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
You can customize this recipe with sprinkles, fruit, or different frostings. It serves 12–16, making it great for parties or family dinners. Your guests will be asking for seconds and the recipe.
Ingredients for Vanilla Cake with Chocolate Frosting
To make this delicious cake, gather these simple ingredients. Fresh, quality ingredients ensure the best flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need for a 9-inch layered cake:
- For the Vanilla Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Optional Garnish:
- Chocolate sprinkles
- Fresh berries
- Chocolate shavings
Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter and frosting. High-quality cocoa powder enhances the frosting’s rich flavor. Vegetable oil keeps the cake moist and tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
You’ll need a few basic tools to make this vanilla cake with chocolate frosting. Two 9-inch round cake pans are ideal for a layered cake. A stand or hand mixer ensures a fluffy batter and creamy frosting.
Parchment paper prevents sticking, and a cooling rack is essential for even cooling. A spatula or offset knife makes frosting the cake easier. A piping bag is optional for decorative touches.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Cake
Follow these steps to create a perfect vanilla cake with chocolate frosting. The process is simple and yields a professional-looking dessert. Let’s start baking.
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper. In a large bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cream butter, sugar, and oil until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and milk. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 2: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula for even baking. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely. This prevents the frosting from melting when applied.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Frosting
Beat butter until creamy, about 1 minute. Sift in powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt, mixing until smooth. Add vanilla and heavy cream, beating until light and fluffy.
Adjust the frosting’s consistency with more cream or sugar if needed. Chill for 10 minutes if it’s too soft. This frosting spreads easily and holds its shape.
Step 4: Assemble and Frost the Cake
Level the cooled cakes with a knife if needed. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.
Smooth the frosting or create swirls for a decorative look. Garnish with sprinkles, berries, or chocolate shavings. Chill for 20 minutes to set the frosting before slicing.
How to Make a Vanilla Cake with Chocolate Frosting
To make a vanilla cake with chocolate frosting, start by preparing a batter with flour, sugar, butter, oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla. Divide it between two 9-inch pans and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, then cool completely. Make a chocolate frosting with butter, powdered sugar, cocoa, and cream.
Assemble by layering the cakes with frosting, then cover the top and sides. Garnish with sprinkles or berries for flair. This recipe takes about 90 minutes and serves 12–16, perfect for any celebration.
You can customize with different garnishes or add-ins like chocolate chips. The process is straightforward, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
Tips for a Perfect Vanilla Cake
Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth, even batter. Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy. Sift dry ingredients to avoid lumps and ensure a tender crumb.
Bake until just done to prevent a dry cake—check with a toothpick. Cool cakes completely before frosting to avoid melting. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of cream.
For a richer flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter. Store the cake covered to maintain moisture. A warm knife ensures clean slices when serving.
Comparison of Cake Frosting Options
Different frostings can change the vibe of a vanilla cake. This table compares three popular choices.
| Frosting Type | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Buttercream | Rich, creamy, cocoa flavor | Classic pairing, chocolate lovers |
| Vanilla Buttercream | Sweet, light, versatile | Subtle contrast, minimalists |
| Cream Cheese Frosting | Tangy, smooth, slightly sweet | Red velvet vibe, tangy lovers |
Chocolate buttercream is decadent and pairs perfectly with vanilla cake. Vanilla buttercream keeps things light, while cream cheese frosting adds a tangy twist. Each suits different tastes.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve vanilla cake with chocolate frosting at room temperature for the best flavor. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or milk to balance the sweetness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it extra indulgent.
This cake is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings. Slice into 12–16 pieces for generous servings. Present on a cake stand for a polished, festive look.
Add fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair. The cake’s classic flavors make it a versatile centerpiece. Guests will love its rich taste and beautiful presentation.
Storing Your Vanilla Cake
Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Keep garnishes separate until serving to avoid sogginess.
To freeze, wrap unfrosted cake layers in plastic wrap and foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving.
Avoid leaving the cake out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. Re-chill after serving to maintain freshness. This keeps the cake moist and delicious.
Creative Variations to Try
Add chocolate chips or sprinkles to the batter for extra texture. Swap the frosting for a chocolate ganache for a glossy, decadent finish. Try a single-layer cake for a simpler presentation.
Use a gluten-free flour blend for a dietary-friendly version. Add a layer of fruit preserves between cake layers for a fruity twist. A hint of coffee in the frosting enhances the chocolate flavor.
Make cupcakes instead of a layered cake for easy serving. These variations keep the recipe versatile and fun. Experiment to suit your taste or occasion.
Summary
This vanilla cake with chocolate frosting recipe is a classic, easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any event. With a fluffy vanilla cake and rich chocolate frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser that serves 12–16. The guide provides clear steps, tips, and creative ideas for success.
Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or casual treats, this cake is budget-friendly and customizable. Its timeless flavors and stunning look make it a go-to dessert. Try this recipe for a delicious, memorable treat everyone will love.
FAQ
Why is my cake dry?
Overbaking or overmixing can cause dryness. Check doneness with a toothpick and mix batter until just combined. Use oil and milk for extra moisture.
Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, an 8-inch pan works but may need 5–10 extra minutes of baking. A 9×13-inch pan makes a single-layer cake. Adjust batter or time accordingly.
How do I make the frosting smoother?
Sift powdered sugar and cocoa to remove lumps. Add cream gradually for a spreadable consistency. Beat longer for a fluffier, smoother frosting.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for the cake. Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. The texture will be similar to regular flour.
How do I store the cake?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Freeze unfrosted layers for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly. Thaw in the fridge before frosting.