Easy Cake Recipes One Bowl Vanilla

Name: Easy Cake Recipes One Bowl Vanilla
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Dessert Magic

I love how simple and satisfying this Easy Cake Recipes One Bowl Vanilla is to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a single bowl, this recipe allows me to whip up a delicious cake without stressing over complicated techniques. The vanilla flavor shines through, making it perfect for any occasion. I often personalize it with fresh fruits or a drizzle of chocolate, but it’s equally delightful on its own. This cake has become my go-to for both family gatherings and quiet afternoons spent enjoying a slice with coffee.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:04:16.232Z

When I first tried making a one-bowl cake, I was surprised by how easy and rewarding it was. The idea of not needing to wash multiple mixing bowls made baking feel less intimidating. I remember pouring the batter directly into my prepared pan and immediately feeling a sense of relief knowing the cleanup would be a breeze.

What I truly love about this cake is its versatility. I’ve played around with various flavors, adding zest from citrus fruits or spices, and each time it’s turned out perfectly moist and fluffy. It’s a must-try for those who want a quick homemade dessert.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Simple one-bowl preparation for effortless baking
Delicious vanilla flavor that's perfect any time
Versatile base that can be customized with your favorite add-ins

The Importance of a Single Bowl

Embracing the one-bowl method makes this vanilla cake incredibly easy, saving you both time and cleanup hassle. When measuring out your ingredients, it’s crucial to add them in the order specified—starting with dry ingredients allows you to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour. This prevents any pockets of dry ingredients that can lead to uneven rising and texture in your cake.

Additionally, mixing everything in one bowl prevents over-mixing, which can result in a tough cake. Just blend the ingredients until they are combined; some lumps are perfectly acceptable. This simple yet effective approach ensures a soft crumb and a delightfully tender texture that highlights the vanilla flavor.

Experimenting with Add-ins

While the base recipe is delicious as is, one of the joys of this cake is its versatility. You can easily personalize it by adding a cup of fresh berries, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips. If using berries, consider tossing them in a little flour first to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking. This small step will help ensure an even distribution throughout the cake, making every bite a delightful surprise.

For a hint of richness, try incorporating some citrus zest—lemon or orange adds a bright, refreshing note that complements the vanilla beautifully. You could also stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a marble effect; simply take half the batter, mix in cocoa, and swirl it back into the untouched batter before baking.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This vanilla cake is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, where it can last for about three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

For serving, a simple dusting of powdered sugar is always elegant, but feel free to elevate the dish with a homemade glaze or whipped cream for added flavor. Pairing it with fresh fruits or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can transform this simple cake into a stunning dessert spread that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful vanilla cake:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is just combined.

Pour and Bake

Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your one-bowl vanilla cake as is, or top it with frosting or fresh fruit!

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps in achieving a smooth and well-mixed batter.

Baking Tips

Monitoring your cake's progress during baking is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Look for a golden brown top and a toothpick test that comes out clean from the center—this typically takes about 30 minutes. However, oven temperatures can vary, so beginning to check for doneness a few minutes early can help prevent overbaking, which leads to a dry cake.

If you notice the edges beginning to brown too much while the center is still wet, consider covering the cake loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking. Retaining moisture within the cake but allowing the top to set will give you that perfect balance of texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

In case you’re out of eggs, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons of water. This helps maintain moisture and binding, similar to what eggs provide. However, it may slightly alter the cake's flavor and texture, so experiment according to your preference.

For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk, and consider choosing a vegetable oil that suits your taste, such as coconut oil for a subtle flavor twist. Both of these substitutions will work effectively without compromising the integrity of your one-bowl cake.

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a larger cake for gatherings, this recipe is easily scalable. Doubling the ingredients will yield two 9-inch round cakes, which can be layered with frosting for a stunning presentation. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as larger cakes might take a bit longer to bake thoroughly. Always check the center with a toothpick to ensure it's fully cooked.

Conversely, if you want a smaller cake, this recipe can also be halved to fit a 9x5-inch loaf pan. This smaller version is perfect for an intimate dessert or an afternoon snack, just be mindful of the baking time; start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole grain flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole grain flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?

You can add cocoa powder for a chocolate variant, lemon zest for a citrus twist, or nuts for texture.