Easy Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake Recipe – Gluten-Free Palate (2024)

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/ Last Modified On November 15, 2023

An easy gluten-free vanilla cake recipe that is tender and better than any bakery-style gluten-free cake. You guys have been asking for the best gluten-free vanilla cake recipe, and here it is! You are going to love this gluten-free vanilla cake.

Celebrate special occasions with a gluten-free birthday cake or enjoy the simplicity of gluten-free vanilla bean cupcakes and gluten-free sponge cake. Elevate your gluten-free experience with tried-and-trusted recipes that promise flavor without compromise. Short on time, then try one of the best gluten-free cake mix brands.

Embark on a flavorful gluten-free journey with engaging and comprehensive gluten-free courses on Udemy, providing valuable insights and skills for crafting delicious gluten-free dishes.

Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake

In case you were wondering, this gluten-free vanilla cake has the best texture. It's light, tender, and it isn't dry like many gluten-free vanilla cake recipes.

Everyone agrees that this is the best gluten-free vanilla cake. No need to ever buy a gluten-free vanilla cake mix at the store.

Several of my readers have been asking for an easy gluten-free vanilla cake recipe. I've had my gluten-free vanilla cupcakes up for a while now, and they get raving reviews.

This gluten-free dairy-free vanilla cake is a spin off my gluten-free vanilla cupcakes.

If you are more of a gluten-free chocolate person, you are going to want to check out my easy gluten-free chocolate cake.

Please read through this entire post. It's full of tips for making the best gluten-free vanilla cake.

Why You’re Going to Love These Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake

Exceptional Texture - This gluten-free vanilla cake offers a light and tender texture, dispelling the common notion that gluten-free cakes can be dry. It's a treat with a bakery-style quality.

Easy Preparation - With straightforward instructions, this recipe is accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Follow the steps closely, and you'll achieve a perfect gluten-free vanilla cake.

Versatility in Ingredients - Whether you prefer dairy-free or don't mind using dairy, this recipe accommodates both choices. You can customize it to your liking, and the cake remains delicious with either dairy-free or regular butter and milk.

No Need for Store-Bought Mixes - Forget about store-bought gluten-free vanilla cake mixes. This recipe allows you to create a homemade, from-scratch cake that surpasses the flavor and texture of many commercial alternatives.

Ingredients in Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake

Vegetable Oil (or oil of choice) - Provides moisture to the cake, contributing to its tenderness and preventing it from being dry. Canola oil has great benefits especially for your heart.

Granulated Sugar - Sweetens the cake but also plays a crucial role in creating a light and airy texture by incorporating air during the beating process.

Large Eggs - Act as a binder, helping to hold the cake together and contribute to its structure.

All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour Blend - The main dry ingredient, replacing traditional wheat flour for those with gluten sensitivity. It gives structure to the cake, and the choice of a good blend ensures the right texture.

Salt - Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness and other flavors in the cake.

Baking Powder - A leavening agent that helps the cake rise by releasing carbon dioxide when exposed to heat.

Dairy-Free Milk (or milk of choice) - Adds liquid to the batter for moisture, and the choice of a dairy-free option caters to those with lactose intolerance or a vegan preference.

Gluten-Free Vanilla Extract - Infuses the cake with a sweet and aromatic vanilla flavor.

Dairy-Free Butter (or regular butter) for Frosting - Creates a smooth and creamy frosting consistency, adding richness and flavor.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder for Frosting - Gives the frosting a rich chocolate flavor.

Powdered Sugar for Frosting - Sweetens and thickens the frosting, providing the right consistency.

Dairy-Free Milk (or regular milk) for Frosting - Adjusts the thickness of the frosting to achieve the desired spreadable texture.

Equipment Needed for This Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake

Mixing Bowls - Essential for combining and beating ingredients to achieve a smooth batter.

Electric or Stand Mixer - Aids in beating the oil, sugar, and eggs to incorporate air, contributing to the cake's light and tender texture.

Measuring Cups and Spoons - Precise measurements are crucial in baking, ensuring the right balance of ingredients.

Cake Pans (8" or 9") - Baking the cake layers is required. Grease them with oil to prevent sticking.

Cooling Rack - Allows the cakes to cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy on the bottom.

Spoon or Scoop - Useful for evenly distributing the batter into the cake pans.

Frosting Spatula or Knife - Essential for spreading the frosting evenly over the cooled cake layers.

If you have any questions about making Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake, please leave a comment, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How to Make Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake

1. Make sure to preheat your oven before you begin.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine oil and sugar.
3. Add eggs and beat with an electric mixer at medium speed for one minute. Add flour, salt, baking powder, dairy-free milk, and vanilla; beat at medium speed for one minute.
4. Spoon batter evenly into cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center springs back when touched and cakes are lightly browned.
5. Let cool in the pan on a rack for five minutes. Remove the cakes from the pans onto rack and cool completely before frosting.
6. Let cakes cool completely before frosting.

For the detailed instructions and ingredients for this gluten-free vanilla cake recipe, please see the complete recipe below.

Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake

There are a couple of tips and tricks to getting the right texture with this gluten-free vanilla cake recipe.

• Follow the Recipe - Stick to the specified ingredients and measurements to achieve the intended texture and flavor. Substituting may yield different results.
• Proper Mixing Time - Beat the oil, sugar, and eggs for the recommended time. Overmixing can lead to a stiff batter, affecting the cake's rise and texture.
• Careful Oven Placement - Ensure the cake is placed in the center of the oven. Placing it too high or having an excessively hot oven can cause cracking on the top.
• Consider Altitude - If baking at a high altitude, reduce the baking powder to prevent rapid rising and potential sinking.
• Room Temperature Eggs - Use eggs at room temperature for optimal results. Cold eggs can affect the texture of the cake.
• Mind Moisture Levels - In humid climates, excess moisture can cause the cake to sink. Be mindful of ingredient freshness and humidity levels.
• Choose the Right Flour Blend - Use the recommended gluten-free flour blend for the best texture. Substituting with untested blends may yield poor results.
• Preheat the Oven - Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the cake inside. Consistent temperature is crucial for even baking.
• Cooling Before Frosting - Let the cakes cool completely on a rack before applying frosting to prevent it from melting and creating a mess.

Tips For Frosting This GF Vanilla Cake:

• Butter Consistency - Ensure that your dairy-free or regular butter is at room temperature for smooth and creamy frosting. Softened butter incorporates better with other ingredients.
• Gradual Sugar Addition - When adding powdered sugar to the frosting, do it gradually, one cup at a time. This prevents lumps and allows for better control over the sweetness and consistency of the frosting.
• Cocoa Powder Incorporation - If making chocolate frosting, add the cocoa powder to the softened butter and vanilla before adding the powdered sugar. This helps to distribute the cocoa flavor evenly.
• Adjusting Consistency - If the frosting is too thick, gradually add more milk, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. On the other hand, if it's too thin, add more powdered sugar.
• Beating Time - Beat the frosting until it is smooth and creamy. Overbeating can incorporate too much air, resulting in a lighter but less stable frosting.

Here's my favorite gluten-free frosting, and guess what? It is done in just 10 minutes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vanilla Extract Gluten-Free?

Yes, pure vanilla extract is gluten-free. You'll want to always check labels, especially on imitation vanilla extracts, as additional ingredients may be added.

How Do I Store Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake?

Store the gluten-free vanilla cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it for up to a week. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent the cake from drying out.

Can I Freeze Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake?

Yes, you can freeze gluten-free vanilla cake. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label with the date, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw slices in the refrigerator before serving.

Can You Make This Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can make the gluten-free vanilla cake ahead of time. Bake the cake layers, allow them to cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container. Prepare the frosting separately and refrigerate. Assemble and frost the cake when you're ready to serve for a freshly frosted taste.

What Substitutions / Replacements Can I Make in This Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake?

Egg- free - This gluten-free dairy-free vanilla cake recipe isn't vegan. It uses eggs. If you require a vegan cake, you may use the equivalent of a flaxegg, but your cake texture will vary.

Can I use dairy in this cake?

Yes, you can use regular dairy butter and dairy milk in this recipe. Just note that if you use butter instead of oil in the recipe, the cake will be a little heavier. This isn't a bad thing; it's just a smidge more dense.

What causes a gluten-free cake to crack on top?

You might see cracks if your temperature is too high, or your cake is placed in the oven too high. The heat of baking activates the baking powder and causes it to release carbon dioxide, which forms bubbles and raises the cake.

If your oven is too hot, that process is sped up. Make sure to place your cake in the center, and regularly check your oven’s temperature.

Another reason is if you are at a high altitude. If you are baking this gluten-free vanilla cake at a high altitude, consider cutting the baking powder in half.

Can I Use This GF Vanilla Cake Recipe To Make Cupcakes?

Yes, you can use this gluten-free vanilla cake recipe to make cupcakes. Remember that the baking time may vary, so it's a good idea to start checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark. Once baked, let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can frost the cupcakes as desired.

How Do I Choose the Right Gluten-Free Flour Blend for This Recipe?

When selecting a gluten-free flour blend for this recipe, it's crucial to stick to tested blends recommended for baking, such as the specified one in the recipe or trusted commercial options like Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour.

Be cautious with all-purpose blends containing bean flours, as they may introduce a strong flavor that doesn't complement a vanilla cake.

Homemade blends are an option, incorporating a mix of flours and starches like rice flour, potato starch, tapioca starch, and xanthan gum for elasticity. Check for the inclusion of xanthan gum or guar gum, or add it separately if necessary.

Test the chosen blend in small batches before committing to a full cake, ensuring it behaves as expected. Watch out for distinct flavors in some gluten-free flours and prioritize blends that mimic the consistency of traditional all-purpose flour for the desired structure and crumb in your gluten-free vanilla cake.

What Cake Pan Should I Use?

The appropriate cake pan is crucial for achieving the best results with your gluten-free vanilla cake. Opt for either 8-inch or 9-inch cake pans, as specified in this recipe, and ensure they are well-greased with oil to prevent sticking.

Choosing an 8-inch or 9-inch pan can affect the thickness and baking time of the cake layers, so use the size recommended in any recipe for optimal results.

Additionally, consider using high-quality cake pans that distribute heat evenly to promote uniform baking. Investing in good pans contributes to a well-baked and evenly textured gluten-free vanilla cake.

Why did my gluten-free vanilla cake sink?

There are several reasons why gluten-free cakes sink. One is from over-beating the batter and adding too much air.

Also, cakes often will sink when there is too much moisture. This is more common in humid climates where added moisture can collect naturally in ingredients such as flour.

When this occurs, the center of the gluten-free vanilla cake rises rapidly and then falls during baking.

In higher elevations, the leavening agent works twice as hard and may cause the batter to rise rapidly and sink before it’s had a chance to set up.

All these tips are relevant to most cake recipes, not just this gluten-free vanilla cake recipe.

Serve this with gluten-free ice cream for an extra special treat.

Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake Mixes

We've tried several gluten-free vanilla cake mixes. Here are a few that we enjoyed if you want to keep one on hand.

You can also mix the dry ingredients for this gluten-free vanilla cake and store them in a jar, essentially making your own mix.

• Bob's Red Mill Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake Mix
• Extra White Gold Vanilla Cake Mix
• Simple Mills Almond Flour Vanilla Cupcake & Cake Mix
• Miss Jones Baking Organic Vanilla Yellow Cake and Cupcake Mix

Some of my favorite gluten-free cake recipes

• Gluten Free Pineapple Upside Down Cake
• Gluten-Free Chocolate Bundt Cake
• Grain-Free Hummingbird Cake
• Gluten-Free Lemon Cake
• Gluten-Free Strawberry Cake
• Gluten-Free Carrot Cake
• My Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is also perfect.

If you are looking for cupcake recipes, search cupcakes in the search bar on the right.

To view our step-by-step video for this recipe on YouTube, click here.

If you made this gluten-free vanilla cake recipe, I want to hear from you! Please leave a star rating and a comment below, letting me know what you thought.