Indulge in the Classic: A Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe UK Bakers Will Love
Craving a timeless, yet delightful treat? Look no further than the vanilla layer cake, a British baking staple that's as comforting as it is impressive. This recipe is a celebration of simplicity, allowing the pure, sweet flavour of vanilla to shine. Let's dive into the creamy, velvety world of vanilla, and bake a show-stopping cake that's sure to become a favourite in your household.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you don your apron, ensure you have the following ingredients at hand. This recipe serves 12, so it's perfect for sharing with friends and family.
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 225g caster sugar
- 4 medium eggs
- 275g self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 4 tbsp milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- For the buttercream frosting:
- 150g unsalted butter, softened
- 300g icing sugar
- 1.5 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp milk
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or Gas Mark 4. Grease and line two 20cm round cake tins with baking parchment.
Cream and Combine
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in colour. This should take around 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the mixture starts to curdle, don't worry – simply add a spoonful of the flour to bring it back together.
Sift in the self-raising flour and baking powder, then gently fold into the batter using a metal spoon. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and combine until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix – a few lumps are fine.
Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared tins and smooth the tops with the back of a spoon. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the cakes comes out clean.
Leave the cakes to cool in the tins for 5 minutes, then carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Buttercream Frosting: The Icing on the Cake
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the buttercream frosting. Beat the softened butter until it's smooth and creamy. Gradually add the icing sugar, mixing well after each addition.
Add the vanilla extract and milk, then beat the frosting until it's light and fluffy. If it's too thick, add a little more milk. If it's too runny, add more icing sugar.
Assemble and Enjoy
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of buttercream frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake, creating a smooth, even finish.
And there you have it – a stunning vanilla layer cake that's sure to become a family favourite. Serve with a cuppa, and enjoy the simple pleasures in life.