Ina Garten’s vanilla cake with buttercream frosting is a timeless classic, perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion that calls for a moist and flavorful cake. This vanilla cake has a soft, tender crumb and is topped with a rich, creamy buttercream frosting.

What Is Ina Garten Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting?

Ina Garten’s vanilla cake is a light and fluffy sponge made with buttermilk, butter, and vanilla extract for a rich flavor. The buttercream frosting is smooth, silky, and perfectly sweet, creating the ideal balance between moist cake and creamy topping.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Moist and flavorful – Buttermilk and butter create a tender, rich cake.
Perfect for any occasion – A classic cake that works for birthdays, weddings, or tea parties.
Easy to decorate – Simple to frost and can be customized with sprinkles, fruit, or piping.
Rich, creamy buttercream – Smooth and perfectly sweet frosting enhances the cake.
Make-ahead friendly – Both the cake and frosting can be prepared in advance.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

For the Vanilla Cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup sour cream

For the Buttercream Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Pinch of salt

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Preheat the oven – Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch sheet pan.
Mix dry ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream butter and sugar – In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla – Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Incorporate buttermilk and sour cream – Alternate adding dry ingredients with buttermilk and sour cream, mixing just until combined.
Bake the cake – Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.

For the Buttercream Frosting:

Beat butter until creamy – In a mixing bowl, beat butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar – Gradually mix in powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
Incorporate vanilla and cream – Add vanilla extract, heavy cream, and salt, mixing until smooth. Adjust consistency with more cream if needed.
Frost the cake – Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake and decorate as desired.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Top with fresh berries – Strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast.
Pair with coffee or tea – The cake’s sweetness is balanced by a warm beverage.
Drizzle with caramel sauce – A touch of caramel enhances the flavor.
Layer with fruit preserves – Adds extra flavor between cake layers.
Decorate with edible flowers – Perfect for a special occasion presentation.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure even mixing and a smooth batter.
Do not overmix the batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Let the cake cool completely – Prevents the frosting from melting.
Sift powdered sugar for frosting – Eliminates lumps for a smooth buttercream.
Chill the cake before slicing – Makes cutting cleaner and easier.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Make it lemon-flavored – Add lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice.
Use cream cheese frosting – Swap buttercream for a tangy alternative.
Add a chocolate ganache drizzle – Create a stunning, decadent finish.
Mix in sprinkles – Turn it into a funfetti cake for a festive touch.
Use almond extract – Adds a nutty depth of flavor.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Store at room temperature – Keep covered for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate for longer storage – Lasts up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freeze for up to 2 months – Wrap layers individually in plastic wrap before freezing.
Thaw before serving – Let frozen cake sit at room temperature before frosting.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Serve at room temperature – No reheating is needed for the best texture.
Microwave individual slices – Warm for 10-15 seconds if a softer cake is preferred.
Let refrigerated cake sit out before serving – Allow 30 minutes for the best flavor.

FAQs

How do you make vanilla cake extra moist?

To make vanilla cake extra moist, use buttermilk and sour cream in the batter, as they add richness and moisture. Measuring flour correctly using the spoon-and-level method and avoiding overmixing the batter helps maintain a soft texture. Baking at the correct temperature and not overbaking also ensure a tender, moist crumb.

Can I make vanilla cake ahead of time?

Yes, vanilla cake can be made ahead of time. Bake the cake layers, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring everything to room temperature before assembling.

What is the best way to frost a vanilla cake smoothly?

For a smooth frosting, ensure the cake is completely cool before applying buttercream. Using an offset spatula makes it easier to spread evenly. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of heavy cream to adjust the consistency. Chilling the cake briefly before frosting helps create clean, sharp edges.

Can I freeze vanilla cake with buttercream frosting?

Yes, a fully frosted vanilla cake can be frozen. Place it in the freezer uncovered for about an hour until the frosting firms up, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before slicing.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s vanilla cake with buttercream frosting is a classic, elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist, tender crumb and creamy frosting, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit.

Bake it today and bring a touch of Ina’s magic to your kitchen!