Indulging in a slice of gluten free vanilla cake is a treat everyone can enjoy. Whether for birthdays, celebrations, or a simple dessert craving, this cake offers a light, moist, and flavorful experience. With a few key tips and high-quality ingredients, you can create a gluten free dessert that rivals traditional recipes.
Why Choose Gluten Free Vanilla Cake?
A gluten free vanilla cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a thoughtful choice for those with dietary restrictions or gluten sensitivities. Made with care, this cake is indistinguishable from its traditional counterpart, offering the same fluffy texture and rich flavor. For more gluten free inspiration, explore gluten free baking recipes ideas to expand your repertoire.
If you’re new to gluten free baking, setting up your pantry with essential ingredients is key. Learn how to stock up with baking essentials for gluten free desserts to ensure your cakes turn out perfectly.
How to Make Gluten Free Vanilla Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose gluten free flour blend
- 1 tsp xanthan gum (omit if included in your flour blend)
- 6 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 4 egg whites, room temperature
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 ⅓ cups buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 10 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
Sift together the gluten free flour blend, xanthan gum, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until evenly combined.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites, whole egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
4. Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat the butter and sugar in a stand mixer on medium-high speed for 3–5 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender crumb.
5. Combine Ingredients
Alternate adding the dry and wet ingredients to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently and avoid overmixing.
6. Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool Completely
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Ensure they are completely cooled before frosting.
Frosting and Decorating Ideas
For a simple yet delicious topping, make a classic buttercream frosting. Alternatively, try a more unique twist like the rich flavors in gluten free almond flour coffee cake.
Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk or cream
Instructions:
1. Beat the Butter:
Place the softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the butter on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until it becomes smooth, light, and fluffy. This step creates the base for a silky frosting.
2. Gradually Add the Powdered Sugar:
Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the powdered sugar a little at a time, about ½ cup per addition. Beat well after each addition to ensure the sugar fully incorporates with the butter, preventing lumps. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to medium and beat for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add Vanilla Extract:
Pour in the vanilla extract, and beat on low speed until it’s evenly distributed. The vanilla enhances the frosting’s flavor and adds a subtle aroma.
4. Adjust Consistency with Milk:
Add 1 tablespoon of milk (or cream) at a time to thin the frosting to your desired consistency. For a stiffer frosting suitable for piping, use less milk. For a spreadable, fluffy frosting, add slightly more milk, but do so gradually to avoid making it too thin.
5. Beat Until Smooth:
Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat the frosting for another 2–3 minutes. This final step ensures the frosting is light, airy, and perfectly smooth, ready to be spread or piped onto your cake.
Tip:
To check the consistency, dip a spoon into the frosting and lift it out. If it holds its shape but is still soft enough to spread, it’s ready to use! If too thick, add a teaspoon of milk; if too thin, add a tablespoon of powdered sugar.
Variations and Flavor Twists
- Lemon Vanilla Cake
- Add 1 tbsp lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice to the batter.
- Funfetti Cake
- Fold in ½ cup of rainbow sprinkles for a fun and festive look.
- Coconut Vanilla Cake
- Replace buttermilk with coconut milk and add shredded coconut to the batter.
For other creative ideas, explore how you can adapt this recipe into a delightful gluten free birthday cake.
FAQs About Gluten Free Vanilla Cake
1. Why did my cake sink in the middle?
This happens when the oven temperature is too high or the batter is overmixed, causing it to collapse as it cools.
2. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
4. Is vanilla extract gluten free?
Yes, pure vanilla extract is typically gluten free, as it’s distilled from alcohol.
5. Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?
Absolutely! Reduce the baking time to 15–20 minutes and monitor closely.
Conclusion
A gluten free vanilla cake is not only a versatile dessert but also a testament to how satisfying gluten free baking can be. Its fluffy texture and rich vanilla flavor make it an ideal choice for birthdays, weddings, holidays, or even a simple family dinner. With endless variations, such as adding sprinkles for a funfetti twist or a hint of citrus for a lemon vanilla cake, this recipe adapts beautifully to any occasion.
The beauty of this cake lies in its ability to bridge the gap between dietary needs and indulgence. Whether you’re baking for someone with gluten sensitivities or simply want to explore the world of gluten free baking, this cake is a perfect place to start.
For even more gluten free dessert ideas, consider pairing this cake with a cup of coffee and a slice of gluten free almond flour coffee cake or trying out some quick gluten free breakfast ideas. Each recipe proves that gluten free baking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or quality. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and create a showstopping dessert that everyone will love!