Easy Cake Recipes One Bowl Vanilla

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

Highlighted under: From Batter to Bliss

I love making cakes that are simple yet incredibly satisfying, and this One Bowl Vanilla Cake fits the bill perfectly. With minimal cleanup and maximal flavor, it's my go-to recipe for when I want something sweet without a lot of fuss. Mixing all the ingredients in one bowl saves time and energy, and the results are always moist and delicious. Whether for a birthday celebration or a cozy family dessert night, this cake never fails to impress and satisfy everyone's cravings.

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:28:11.981Z

When I first decided to make this One Bowl Vanilla Cake, I was amazed at how easy it was to throw together. Just a few simple ingredients and one bowl made the process incredibly quick and mess-free. As I mixed everything together, the delightful aroma of vanilla filled my kitchen, creating an eager anticipation for the warm cake that was about to come out of the oven.

After baking for just 30 minutes, I was thrilled to see how perfectly it rose. The texture was light and fluffy, while the flavor was rich and comforting. I recommend serving it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream for a little extra indulgence. This cake is perfect for any occasion, and I know it will become a staple in your dessert rotation!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Simple one-bowl method for quick preparation
Light and fluffy texture that's genuinely satisfying
Versatile base for any frosting or toppings you desire

Mastering the One-Bowl Method

The key to this One Bowl Vanilla Cake lies in the efficient mixing of ingredients. By adding the melted butter, sugar, and eggs first, you create a smooth base that ensures even distribution of flavors. When mixing in the milk, use a whisk for a couple of minutes. This not only helps to incorporate air, contributing to the cake’s lightness, but also prevents any potential clumping from the added dry ingredients. One common mistake is overmixing; stop as soon as everything is combined to avoid a dense texture.

Using the one-bowl method not only saves time but also minimizes cleanup, making it perfect for busy bakers. To ensure a successful outcome, keep an eye on the batter's consistency as you fold in the dry mixture; it should remain slightly lumpy, which is ideal for achieving the airy crumb that this cake is known for. Remember, less is often more when it comes to mixing; aim for just combined rather than perfectly smooth.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in the cake’s outcome. For instance, the combination of milk and melted butter creates a rich, moist texture that elevates the overall flavor profile. If you find yourself out of buttermilk, simply use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice; let it sit for a few minutes before adding it to the mixture to replicate the acidity of buttermilk. This substitution is particularly handy and doesn’t compromise the cake’s tender crumb.

The choice of flour is also important; all-purpose flour works perfectly, but if you're aiming for a lighter texture, consider substituting half with cake flour. This will yield a more delicate cake, ideal for layered frosting. Additionally, if you're looking to make a dairy-free version, coconut or almond milk can replace regular milk without sacrificing much in terms of texture. The key is to maintain the same liquid volume to ensure the wet-to-dry ratio remains balanced.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your One Bowl Vanilla Cake:

Vanilla Cake Ingredients

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

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your One Bowl Vanilla Cake:

Preheat 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 the melted butter and sugar, whisking until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. Then, stir in the milk.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your delicious One Bowl Vanilla Cake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips or nuts. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or lemon, to give the cake a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

This One Bowl Vanilla Cake is incredibly versatile, serving as an excellent base for various frostings and toppings. Whether it’s a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a rich chocolate ganache, the options are nearly limitless. Fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced peaches, can be added on top for a light and fresh presentation, enticing both the young and old at any gathering. You could also try filling the cake layers with a fruit preserves or whipped cream for added flavor and texture.

For a special occasion, consider layering this cake with a delicious buttercream icing or cream cheese frosting. A simple vanilla buttercream can elevate the flavors even further. If you’re feeling adventurous, flavor your frosting with extracts like almond or orange to give it a unique twist that complements the vanilla base.

Storing and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftover cake, storing it properly is essential to maintaining its freshness. Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or foil, which helps prevent it from drying out. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, but if you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it for up to a week. The cold air will help retain moisture, but be aware that refrigeration can slightly change the cake's texture.

For longer-term storage, this vanilla cake freezes beautifully. Slice it into individual servings, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes! You can substitute with cake flour for a lighter texture or whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I top this cake with?

This vanilla cake is delicious with whipped cream, frosting, fresh fruit, or even a simple glaze!