Best Vanilla (Gluten-Free) GF Cake Recipe
This vanilla GF cake recipe is ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion, offering a delightful dessert free from gluten and dairy concerns.
Ingredients
For Cake
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend: Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- ½ tsp baking soda: Works with the baking powder to give the cake a good rise.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsweetened soy milk: Provides moisture and a bit of protein; can be substituted with almond milk coconut milk, or any other dairy-free milk.
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil: Keeps the cake moist. Coconut oil adds a subtle flavor.
- 3 large eggs: Add structure and richness to the cake.
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract: Essential for that classic vanilla flavor.
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter or dairy-free margarine softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and structure to the frosting.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- 2-4 tablespoons dairy-free milk such as almond milk or coconut milk, as needed
Instructions
For Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them and dusting them with gluten-free flour, or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring even distribution of the leavening agents within the flour.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until they are light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, which helps to create a light and airy cake texture. Add the oil and vanilla extract, then mix until thoroughly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the soy milk. Start by adding the dry ingredients first and end with them, mixing just until combined after each addition. Be cautious not to overmix, as it can lead to a dense cake.
- Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans that have been prepared. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes should have a golden brown color and bounce back when lightly pressed.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Make sure the cakes are fully cooled before frosting to avoid the frosting from melting.
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of dairy-free milk. Beat on medium-high speed for about 3-5 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach desired spreading consistency.
Assembly
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost the top of one cake layer with a generous amount of vanilla buttercream frosting.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining vanilla buttercream frosting. Use an offset spatula or knife to smooth the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate the cake as desired with sprinkles, fresh berries, or edible flowers.
- Slice and serve your delicious vanilla (gluten-free) gf cake recipe with vanilla buttercream frosting. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 398kcal | Carbohydrates: 73g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 155mg | Sodium: 462mg | Potassium: 128mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 40g | Vitamin A: 667IU | Calcium: 128mg | Iron: 1mg
The nutritional information provided is approximate. For precise details, calculate based on your specific ingredients and serving sizes.