Making a delicious vanilla cake doesn’t require a stand mixer or even a hand mixer. This Simple Vanilla Cake No Mixer recipe is perfect for beginner bakers or those times when you crave a homemade treat without hauling out the appliances. With a few basic pantry staples and a little bit of elbow grease, you can have a moist and flavorful cake ready in no time. This recipe is truly a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest things are the best.
Table Of Contents
The Beauty of a No-Mixer Vanilla Cake
This no-mixer vanilla cake recipe is a go-to for its simplicity and delightful results. It’s perfect for unexpected guests, last-minute baking needs, or when you’re simply craving a classic vanilla cake. Forget the complicated recipes and the lengthy cleanup; this cake embodies ease and efficiency. This method is all about incorporating air into the batter by hand, creating a light and fluffy texture. This technique is similar to making a Fast sponge cake recipe which also relies on the power of whisking. Forget about the mixer; you’ll only need a whisk and a couple of bowls.
Ingredients for Simple Vanilla Cake No Mixer
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions for a No-Mixer Vanilla Cake
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This crucial step ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out clean.
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combines the dry ingredients evenly, ensuring a consistent rise and flavor throughout the cake.
- Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. The key is to whisk until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake. Just like when making a Fast sponge cake for dessert, overmixing can result in a denser texture.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Ingredients for Simple Vanilla Cake No Mixer
Frosting and Decorating Your Simple Vanilla Cake
While the cake cools, you can prepare your favorite frosting. A simple buttercream frosting is a classic pairing, but you can also get creative with cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a simple glaze. Once the cake is completely cool, frost it evenly and decorate as desired. Sprinkles, fresh fruit, or chocolate shavings are all excellent choices. Remember, the joy of baking is in the details.
Tips for the Perfect No-Mixer Vanilla Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for optimal blending.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter will develop the gluten in the flour and result in a denser cake.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer to test for doneness. It should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake. Similar to checking the doneness of an Easy vanilla cake in 30 minutes, this method guarantees a perfectly baked cake every time.
- Cooling: Letting the cake cool completely before frosting prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a neat finish.
Whisking the batter for a no-mixer vanilla cake.
“A simple vanilla cake is a blank canvas,” says renowned pastry chef, Amelia Dubois. “It’s a testament to the beauty of simplicity and allows for endless creativity in flavor combinations and decorations.”
Variations on the Simple Vanilla Cake No Mixer
This recipe serves as a fantastic base for various flavor combinations. Try adding citrus zest, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts to the batter for a unique twist. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or lemon, to create a personalized flavor profile. For a quick and easy dessert, consider this 5-ingredient cake recipe.
A finished simple vanilla cake, no mixer required, frosted and ready to serve.
“Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and textures,” advises Chef Dubois. “Baking should be a journey of discovery, where each creation reflects your unique palate and creativity.”
Conclusion
This simple vanilla cake no mixer recipe is a must-try for all baking enthusiasts. Its ease, deliciousness, and versatility make it a perfect choice for any occasion. So, grab your whisk and enjoy the process of creating a delightful treat from scratch. This simple vanilla cake no mixer is a delightful reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are simple. If you’re looking for another easy dessert option, check out this Simple cheesecake in 30 minutes recipe.
A slice of simple vanilla cake, no mixer required.
FAQ
-
Can I use oil instead of butter? Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil for melted butter in equal amounts.
-
Can I make this cake in a different size pan? Yes, but the baking time will need to be adjusted. A smaller pan will require a longer baking time, and a larger pan will require a shorter baking time.
-
How do I store this cake? Store the frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
-
Can I freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
-
Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake? Yes, you can use this recipe to make cupcakes. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
What can I substitute for milk? Buttermilk or yogurt can be used as a substitute for milk.
-
How can I tell if my cake is done? A wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean when the cake is done.
