Description
This simple vanilla layer cake is soft, fluffy, and perfect for stacking. Whether you’re making a birthday cake or a special treat, this foolproof recipe is the perfect base for any flavor combination!
Ingredients
Make one of these cakes:
- Vanilla Molly Cake
- Vanilla Chiffon cake
- Vanilla sponge cake
- Vanilla White Cake
- Vanilla buttermilk cake
Inside frosting and Fillings :
Outside frostings :
Instructions
- Bake the Cake Layers – Follow your preferred vanilla cake recipe. Once baked, let the layers cool completely on a wire rack.
- Level the Cake Layers – If needed, trim the domed tops with a serrated knife or cake leveler to ensure even layers.
- Prepare the Filling & Frosting – Choose your favorite buttercream, ganache, or whipped cream and mix until smooth and spreadable.
- Stack the Cake – Place the first layer on a cake board, spread a thin border of buttercream around the edges, then add your filling in the center. Repeat with each layer.
- Crumb Coat & Chill – Apply a thin layer of frosting to seal in crumbs, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Final Frosting & Decoration – Spread a smooth final layer of frosting using an offset spatula and cake scraper. Decorate with piping, sprinkles, or a drip glaze.
- Now slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade perfect layer cake!
Notes
- Cake Size: This recipe is for a 15 cm (6-inch) layer cake (8 servings). For a larger cake, double the quantities.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Cake layers can be baked 2–3 days in advance and stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Perfect Frosting: For a smooth finish, use a turntable, acrylic discs, an offset spatula, and a bench scraper.
- Easy Assembly: Place your cake on a cake board and let it chill between steps for better stability.
- Customization: Add flavor extracts, citrus zest, or food coloring to customize the taste and look.
- Looking for inspiration? Find more frosting and filling ideas for your layer cake!
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: cake, layer cakes
- Cuisine: American