Basic Vanilla Cake

Basic Vanilla Cake is a recipe to have for a birthday cake, another special occasion, or even if you simply have a hankering for a special treat.

Basic Vanilla Cake

Makes two 8-inch cakes or three 6-inch cakes.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon clear vanilla extract
• 2 3/4 cup cake flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 6 large egg whites

Place the butter, sugar, oil, and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, work up to medium-high speed to whip until light and fluffy.

In a separate container, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In a third container, whisk together the buttermilk and egg whites.

After the butter mixture is light and fluffy, turn the mixer off and scrape down the bowl so everything is sure to be included. Turn the mixer on the lowest speed so the cake batter doesn’t get over mixed. Add about a cup of the flour mixture. Once it is combined, add about a half a cup of the buttermilk mixture. Keep alternating this way just until everything is in the batter and combined.

Spray two eight or three 6-inch round pans with non-stick baking spray. Another option is to coat with butter and then sprinkle flour into each to coat and then tap out any excess flour.

If desired, wet two baking strips and secure them to the outsides of the pans. These will help the outside edges of the cake not to over bake which will make them moister and more tender. This isn’t necessary, just a nice baking tip.