Description
This Mini Vanilla Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make single-layer vanilla cake perfect for small gatherings or personal indulgence. With a tender crumb and smooth vanilla buttercream frosting, it’s a classic dessert that can be whipped up quickly with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Cake
- Baking spray (for greasing pan)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- ⅓ cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- ¾ cup cake flour
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/8 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- 1/2 cup salted butter (softened, 1 stick)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Spray a 6-inch cake pan with baking spray and line it with parchment paper. This ensures the cake does not stick and can be easily removed after baking.
- Whisk Egg, Vanilla, and Sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the room temperature egg, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until the mixture is well combined and thickened, which helps to incorporate air and improve texture.
- Add Oil and Buttermilk: Whisk in the vegetable oil followed by the buttermilk until the mixture is smooth and homogenous, ensuring moisture and tenderness in the cake.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to remove lumps and evenly distribute the leavening agents.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet batter using a rubber spatula. Mix just until barely combined to prevent overworking the batter and creating a dense cake.
- Pour and Tap: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and drop the pan from about 3 inches onto the counter to release any trapped air bubbles, which helps ensure an even crumb.
- Bake: Bake the cake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Prepare Vanilla Buttercream Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened salted butter for one minute until light and fluffy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, followed by the vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is smooth.
- Add Heavy Cream: Add the heavy cream a little at a time and continue beating until the frosting reaches your desired consistency, light and creamy.
- Season and Combine: Add a pinch or two of salt to balance the sweetness and beat to combine.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the vanilla buttercream evenly over the top and sides to finish the dessert.
Notes
- Ensure all refrigerated ingredients like egg and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter once dry ingredients are added to keep the cake light and moist.
- Use cake flour for a tender crumb; if unavailable, you can substitute with all-purpose flour but the texture will slightly differ.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.
- Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American