This Buttermilk Vanilla Bundt Cake is a wonderfully moist and tender treat, perfect for any occasion. This recipe provides a simple way to create a stunning vanilla cake that everyone will love. You’ll find it’s a delightful addition to your collection of vanilla cake recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use cake flour for an even finer crumb.
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, combine regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract offers the best flavor; imitation vanilla will work in a pinch.
- Unsalted Butter: Margarine can be used, but butter provides richer flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (cake only)
- Tools Needed: 10-12 cup Bundt pan, electric mixer, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Grease and flour your Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is ready when your batter is.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside. This step evenly distributes your leavening agents.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air, making your cake tender.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the pure vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared Bundt pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. This indicates your cake is fully cooked.
7. Cool and Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto the rack to cool completely. Once cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for your optional glaze, then drizzle it over the cake. This Buttermilk Vanilla Bundt Cake is a standout among vanilla cake recipes.
Variation Ideas:
- Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright citrus note.
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a subtle chocolatey surprise.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Instead of a simple glaze, make a cream cheese frosting for extra richness.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Buttermilk Vanilla Bundt Cake at room temperature, covered tightly, for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving. This ensures your vanilla cake recipes remain fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Why is my Bundt cake sticking to the pan?
A: You likely didn’t grease and flour the pan thoroughly enough. Ensure you cover every crevice.
Q: Can I make this a regular layer cake?
A: Yes, you can divide the batter between two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans and adjust baking time. This is a versatile option for vanilla cake recipes.
Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: Create a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Q: How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A: Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the thickest part of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Q: Can I add food coloring?
A: Yes, you can add a few drops of your desired food coloring to the batter for a fun presentation.