Description
This easy 5-Ingredient Vanilla Cake is perfect for a quick and delicious homemade treat. With simple pantry staples, you can whip up a moist, flavorful vanilla cake in just 40 minutes. The recipe requires no complicated steps, and the cake’s light texture makes it ideal for serving on its own or with your favorite frosting.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups (230 g) self-rising flour
- 3/4 cup (148 g) granulated white sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ tsp (7 ml) vanilla paste
- 1/3 cup (79 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (237 ml) water (see note)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8 x 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the self-rising flour and granulated sugar. Whisk them together until evenly combined. Then sift the mixture by running your whisk rapidly back and forth through the flour until the texture appears light and powdery.
- Mix wet ingredients: Add the vanilla paste, vegetable oil, and half of the water to the dry ingredients. Do not add all the water at once, as this can make mixing difficult. Whisk the batter until smooth with no lumps of flour remaining. Then add the remaining water and whisk again until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Pour and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing it. Cut into pieces and serve. If desired, add frosting once the cake has cooled to enhance flavor.
Notes
- Using self-rising flour eliminates the need for additional leavening agents like baking powder.
- Make sure to add the water gradually to make mixing easier and achieve a smooth batter.
- The cake can be served plain or frosted after cooling.
- If you don’t have vanilla paste, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
