Easy One Bowl Vanilla Cake

Name: Easy One Bowl Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Easy Kitchen Magic

I love whipping up a delicious dessert without the mess, and this Easy One Bowl Vanilla Cake ensures just that! It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that lets me enjoy the sweet aroma of vanilla wafting through my kitchen. Using only one bowl means less clean-up, and I can focus on the joy of baking. Whether it's for a birthday or a spontaneous treat, this cake is my go-to option, and I can easily customize it with my favorite toppings or frostings to make it even more special.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:13:36.388Z

When I first tried making a one bowl cake, I was skeptical about the result. However, after my first bite, I was hooked! The simplicity of this method brings out the rich vanilla flavor without compromising on texture. Every spoonful is delightful, and the best part is it takes no time at all to prepare.

I've also learned that letting the cake cool completely before frosting makes a world of difference. This way, the frosting stays fluffy and doesn't melt. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, and my family can’t get enough of it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Incredibly simple with just one bowl to clean
Rich and fragrant vanilla flavor that shines through
Light and fluffy texture that appeals to everyone

Essential Techniques for Success

To achieve a light and fluffy texture in your Easy One Bowl Vanilla Cake, the way you mix your ingredients is crucial. Start by combining your dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid any lumps. When you add the wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to a denser cake, so stop as soon as you see no dry flour. A few small lumps are acceptable; they will incorporate during baking.

Another key technique is to ensure your butter is softened but not melted. If your butter is too warm, it will affect the cake’s final texture. You can easily soften butter by leaving it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or if you’re in a hurry, try cutting it into small pieces to speed the process up.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this vanilla cake plays a vital role. The all-purpose flour provides the structure, while the sugar not only sweetens but also helps to retain moisture, contributing to a tender crumb. The use of whole eggs enriches the batter, making it visually appealing and enhancing flavor. For a slightly richer taste, feel free to substitute part of the all-purpose flour with cake flour, which will give a finer crumb consistency.

For those who might need a dairy-free option, you can replace the milk with almond or oat milk. Additionally, using coconut oil in place of unsalted butter can impart a subtle tropical flavor while still ensuring a moist cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add in the butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Frost as desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add chocolate chips or berries to the batter for extra flavor. Also, using room temperature ingredients helps achieve a better texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This cake is perfect for making ahead of time, especially if you have a busy week ahead. It can be wrapped in plastic wrap and stored at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Once cooled, wrap the individual layers tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This method keeps the cake fresh for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

If you find yourself with leftover cake, you can store it in an airtight container for about five days at room temperature. To maintain its texture, add a piece of bread to the container; it helps keep the cake moist by absorbing excess air humidity.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Easy One Bowl Vanilla Cake serves as a fantastic base for various frostings and toppings. For a traditional approach, a simple vanilla buttercream pairs beautifully, or you could opt for a tangy cream cheese frosting to balance the sweetness of the cake. For a more modern twist, consider drizzling a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a fresh zest.

You can also elevate the cake with fresh fruits or nuts. Adding chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter can introduce a delightful crunch, while topping the cake with seasonal berries adds a vibrant pop of color and flavor. You could even layer this cake with a fruit preserve for a delightful surprise at first bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What frosting pairs well with this cake?

This vanilla cake pairs beautifully with buttercream frosting, cream cheese frosting, or even a light whipped cream.