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: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Delightful Bakes

I absolutely love the simplicity and delightful results of this easy one bowl vanilla cake recipe. It’s a real game changer for those days when you're craving something sweet but don’t want to spend ages in the kitchen. With minimal cleanup and fuss, this cake comes together quickly, making it the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether I’m celebrating a birthday or simply treating myself, this recipe never fails to impress. Plus, the vanilla flavor is rich and comforting, making it a favorite around my home.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:57:36.082Z

When testing this easy one bowl vanilla cake, I was amazed at how effortlessly it came together. I remember carefully mixing the ingredients, and to my delight, the batter was smooth and flavorful. The best part? I didn’t even have to dirty multiple bowls!

Each forkful of this cake melts in my mouth, reminding me of timeless family recipes. The vanilla extract I used is top quality, which truly elevates the taste. I learned that allowing the butter to slightly cool after melting helps give the cake a tender crumb, and I can’t wait to share this tip with you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Incredibly moist and fluffy texture
Quick and easy preparation with just one bowl
Versatile base for all kinds of frostings and toppings

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in this one bowl vanilla cake plays a vital role in achieving its light and fluffy texture. The all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure, while the sugar helps create a tender crumb by preventing gluten from forming too tightly. The melted butter not only adds flavor but also contributes to the moistness of the cake, ensuring each bite melts in your mouth.

The eggs in the recipe serve a dual purpose: they bind the ingredients together and provide richness. As they beat, they incorporate air, contributing to the cake's rise. For a delightful twist, consider using eggs at room temperature, as this helps them blend more easily with the other ingredients and can enhance the overall texture.

Tips for Perfect Baking

Achieving the perfect bake requires attention to detail, especially with the baking time and temperature. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure consistent baking from the start. If you find the top of your cake browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes to prevent burning while it finishes cooking through.

When testing for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, return it to the oven and check again in a few minutes. Proper cooling is also critical—let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it, as this helps it set properly and reduces the risk of breaking.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your vanilla cake:

Ingredients

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

These ingredients will create a delicious cake that is perfect for any occasion!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the cake:

Prepare the oven and pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix the dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Add wet ingredients

Add melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix with a whisk or wooden spoon until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick 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.

Your easy vanilla cake is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try using vanilla bean paste instead of extract. Additionally, serving with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or fresh fruit will take your cake to the next level!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This vanilla cake can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Once completely cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Slice the cooled cake and wrap individual portions in plastic, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the cake, simply thaw it at room temperature for a couple of hours or overnight in the fridge. You can also warm individual slices briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked taste.

Creative Variations

While this one bowl vanilla cake is delightful as is, there are countless ways to personalize it. For a chocolate version, substitute a third of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder. If you'd like a more fruity touch, gently fold in a cup of fresh berries or even some chopped nuts for added texture before baking.

Moreover, feel free to experiment with flavors! Swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract or citrus zest to give the cake a new twist. Just keep in mind that the intensity of these flavors can vary, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, cake flour can be used for a lighter texture, but you may want to adjust some liquid ingredients as needed.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover 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 the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a simple glaze for extra sweetness.