Description
This Moist and Soft Cake recipe delivers a tender, fluffy vanilla cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Featuring a balanced blend of butter and vegetable oil, this cake stays incredibly moist and soft, making it an ideal base for layered cakes, cupcakes, or birthday treats. Enhanced with vanilla extract and optional almond or lemon flavorings, it offers versatility and classic flavor that pairs beautifully with various frostings and fillings.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon almond extract or lemon zest for added flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside as it will be incorporated later into the batter.
- Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition to fully combine. Then mix in the vanilla extract along with any optional almond extract or lemon zest for additional flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing only until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensure a tender cake.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased pan(s) and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack and cool completely before applying frosting or serving to maintain its moist texture.
Notes
- This cake is a versatile base, ideal for layered cakes, cupcakes, or birthday cakes.
- Pairs wonderfully with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or fresh fruit fillings.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain the cake’s soft texture.
- For added flavor, experiment with almond extract or lemon zest as optional ingredients.
