There’s something truly irresistible about a classic Vanilla Traybake Cake. With its soft and fluffy texture, delicate vanilla aroma, and a smooth buttercream topping, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it for a birthday, an afternoon tea, or a casual family gathering, this cake is bound to be a hit.
What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity. A handful of pantry staples come together to create a light and airy cake with just the right amount of sweetness. The buttercream, rich and creamy, takes it to the next level. Customize it with sprinkles, fruit, or a drizzle of caramel for a fun twist!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 250g unsalted butter, softened
- 250g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 250g self-raising flour
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 tbsp milk
For the Buttercream:
- 200g unsalted butter, softened
- 400g icing sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp milk
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 9×13-inch baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Fold in the self-raising flour gently, then add vanilla extract and milk, stirring until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding the buttercream.
- For the buttercream, beat the butter until smooth, then gradually add icing sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Spread the buttercream evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per slice | Servings: 12 slices
The History of Vanilla Cake
Vanilla cake has been a beloved classic for centuries. The earliest versions of sponge cake can be traced back to the Renaissance period when bakers started using beaten eggs instead of yeast as a leavening agent. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century, when baking powder and vanilla extract became widely available, that vanilla cakes truly became a staple in home baking. The traybake style, which involves baking a cake in a rectangular tray, gained popularity due to its convenience—making it perfect for slicing into equal portions for sharing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, this recipe is easy to whip up anytime.
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: The combination of butter, eggs, and self-raising flour creates a light, airy crumb.
- Delicious Buttercream Frosting: The smooth, vanilla-infused buttercream complements the cake perfectly.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, a tea-time treat, or a weekend dessert, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser.
Tips for the Best Vanilla Traybake Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature helps achieve a smooth batter and even baking.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Gently fold in the flour to keep it light and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting – Frosting a warm cake will cause the buttercream to melt and become runny.
Variations and Add-Ons
- Lemon Vanilla Cake: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the buttercream for a decadent touch.
- Sprinkles for Fun: Top with colorful sprinkles to make it more festive, especially for kids.
- Berry Topping: Serve with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Storage and Shelf Life
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to a week. Let it sit at room temperature before serving.
- Freezing Option: The unfrosted cake can be wrapped in plastic wrap and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.
Pairing Suggestions
- A hot cup of coffee or tea enhances the vanilla flavors.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Pair with a fruit compote or whipped cream for a light, refreshing finish.
This Vanilla Traybake Cake is the ultimate fuss-free dessert that delivers pure comfort in every bite. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it with different flavors, it’s guaranteed to be a staple in your baking routine!
What is a Traybake Cake?
A traybake cake, also known as a sheet cake, is a simple and convenient way to make a large batch of cake in a single rectangular baking tray. Unlike layer cakes that require assembly, traybake cakes are baked, frosted, and served directly from the tray. They are ideal for parties, gatherings, bake sales, or just as an easy treat for the family.
The Appeal of Vanilla Cake
Vanilla cake is a timeless dessert that is loved for its simplicity, versatility, and rich flavor. The smooth, buttery texture combined with the warm and fragrant notes of vanilla creates an irresistible treat. This vanilla traybake is particularly convenient because it requires minimal effort, making it perfect for beginner bakers or those looking for a quick dessert option.
How This Recipe Differs from Traditional Sponge Cake
While classic sponge cakes are often layered and require careful handling, this traybake version is much easier to make and slice. The use of self-raising flour ensures a fluffy and tender texture, while the butter and sugar creaming method creates a light and airy crumb. The buttercream frosting adds a rich and creamy contrast, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Baking Science Behind This Cake
Key Ingredients and Their Role
- Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake. Using room-temperature butter ensures even mixing and a light texture.
- Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a soft crumb. Caster sugar dissolves easily, resulting in a smooth batter.
- Eggs: Provide structure and help the cake rise. Adding them one at a time ensures even incorporation.
- Self-Raising Flour: Contains baking powder, which helps the cake rise and achieve a fluffy texture.
- Milk: Loosens the batter and enhances moisture, preventing the cake from being dry.
- Vanilla Extract: The key flavoring ingredient that gives the cake its warm, sweet, and slightly floral notes.
Baking Tips for a Perfect Vanilla Traybake Cake
- Use High-Quality Vanilla Extract – Since vanilla is the star ingredient, opt for pure vanilla extract instead of artificial flavoring for the best taste.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately – Baking is a science, so use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
- Do Not Overmix – Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Fold the flour gently to retain air and keep the cake light.
- Preheat the Oven Properly – An even baking temperature ensures consistent results and prevents the cake from sinking in the middle.
- Cool Before Frosting – Applying buttercream to a warm cake will cause it to melt. Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading the frosting.
Customizing This Vanilla Traybake Cake
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit different flavors and occasions:
- Chocolate Swirl Cake: Add a swirl of melted chocolate into the batter before baking for a marbled effect.
- Lemon Vanilla Cake: Mix in 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright and zesty twist.
- Berry Bliss Cake: Top the buttercream with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fruity burst.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the buttercream for a rich and decadent touch.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle crushed almonds, pecans, or walnuts on top for added crunch.
How to Store the Cake
This vanilla traybake cake stays fresh for days and can be stored in multiple ways:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to one week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge or at room temperature before eating.
Best Pairings for This Cake
Enjoy your vanilla traybake cake with:
- A hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting snack.
- A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- A drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce for extra flavor.
- A dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit for a refreshing balance.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This cake is an all-rounder and suits many events:
🎂 Birthday Parties – Serve it with sprinkles or decorations for a festive look.
🍵 Afternoon Tea – A perfect companion to a relaxing tea break.
🎁 Bake Sales & Fundraisers – Easy to transport and portion.
🥳 Family Gatherings – Simple yet delicious, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion
This Vanilla Traybake Cake is a simple yet delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. With its soft, fluffy texture and creamy buttercream, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and customize. Whether served with tea, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of caramel, this cake is a delightful treat every time. Enjoy baking and sharing it with your loved ones!