Description
This moist and tender vanilla cake recipe uses olive oil for a delightful texture and subtle richness. Perfectly balanced with vanilla and whole milk, this cake is simple to prepare and ideal for any celebration or casual dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.
- Prepare Pans: Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with non-stick spray, then line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking and create easy release.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.
- Combine Sugar and Oil: In a large bowl, use a stand or hand mixer to blend the granulated sugar and extra virgin olive oil until the mixture resembles wet sand, ensuring the sugar is well incorporated.
- Add Vanilla and Milk: Stir in the vanilla extract and whole milk into the sugar and oil mixture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix again to combine everything evenly.
- Add Eggs One at a Time: Slowly add the eggs one by one on low mixer speed, scraping down the sides in between each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients in batches to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender. Scrape the bowl’s sides to combine thoroughly.
- Divide Batter and Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-23 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and edges are golden.
- Cool the Cakes: Remove from the oven and place the pans on a wire rack to cool completely before removing the cakes from the pans.
- Frost as Desired: Once the cakes are fully cooled, frost with your favorite frosting and serve.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- You can substitute olive oil with any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil if preferred.
- Line the cake pans with parchment paper for easy removal and a smooth bottom layer.
- If you prefer, use butter instead of oil, but the texture will be slightly different.
- Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American