There’s something incredibly comforting about the scent of a freshly baked cake wafting through the kitchen. When I first pulled my Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake with a Buttery Crumb from the oven, the golden crust promised a delight that was just too hard to resist. This cake isn’t just a treat; it’s a nostalgic embrace from childhood, where every slice brings back memories of family gatherings and shared laughter.
What I love about this bundt cake is its versatility; pair it with coffee for a cozy morning, or serve it at a gathering for a touch of elegance that still feels homey. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dessert yet impressive enough to elevate any occasion, making it a perfect antidote to the boring, pre-packaged options we often find ourselves reaching for. Join me in whipping up this decadent Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake that’s destined to become a favorite in your home, creating moments of joy with every slice!
Why You'll Love This Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake with a Buttery Crumb
- This Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake with a Buttery Crumb is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time.
- Its rich and buttery flavor pairs perfectly with coffee or tea, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
- The cake is versatile enough to stand alone or be dressed up with a glaze for special events, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any dessert lineup.
- Visually, the cake’s beautiful bundt shape and golden crust make it an attractive centerpiece that will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
- Enjoy the satisfaction of serving a homemade dessert that is sure to please everyone at your table.
Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake Ingredients
• Elevate your baking with this classic recipe!
For the Cake
- Unsalted butter – It adds richness and a creamy texture to the cake, making each bite melt in your mouth.
- All-purpose flour – Provides the structure you need for a beautifully fluffy bundt cake.
- Baking powder – This is your leavening agent; it ensures a light and airy texture as it rises in the oven.
- Kosher salt – A little salt brings out the sweet flavors and enhances the overall taste of the cake.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetness is key; this ingredient helps create that fluffy crumb everyone loves.
- Large eggs – They bind the ingredients together while adding moisture and a delightful richness.
- Whole milk – Adds moisture and richness for a tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract – Essential for delivering that classic vanilla flavor we all adore.
- Almond extract (optional) – A hint of almond adds depth to the vanilla flavor, making it even more aromatic.
For the Glaze
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze and gives it that smooth, velvety texture that perfectly complements the cake.
- Whole milk – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze, making it drizzle beautifully over the cake.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the glaze, ensuring every element of your Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake shines.
- Kosher salt – Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness and round out the flavors of the glaze.
How to Make Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake
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Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter and flour your bundt pan to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
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Cream Together: In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1.75 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, achieving a creamy texture that should take about 3-5 minutes.
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Incorporate Eggs: Add 4 large eggs to the creamed mixture, one at a time. Mix well after each addition to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated, giving the batter a rich consistency.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2.25 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1.25 teaspoons of kosher salt. This step blends the dry ingredients for a well-distributed cake.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 0.75 cup of whole milk and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing for a tender crumb.
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Pour the Batter: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
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Bake: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and rise beautifully.
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Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before gently turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the steam to escape, ensuring a perfect texture.
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For the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of whole milk, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and 0.5 teaspoon of kosher salt until smooth. Drizzle it over the cooled cake to give it a sweet finish.
Optional: Garnish with fresh berries or toasted nuts for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake with a Buttery Crumb?
There’s nothing quite like the sweet aroma of a bundt cake to bring warmth to your table, especially when paired with delightful accompaniments.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries brightens each bite, enhancing the cake’s rich flavors. Their juicy sweetness adds a touch of summer sweetness to your dessert.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess that perfectly complements the buttery crumb. A dollop provides a rich contrast to the cake’s tender texture.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso enhances the cake’s vanilla flavor while providing a rich, satisfying experience perfect for afternoon tea or dessert.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the warm cake, creating a luscious treat that’s reminiscent of childhood desserts. It’s the ultimate comfort food pairing that creates a blissful indulgence.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling rich, silky chocolate ganache over the bundt cake brings an extra layer of decadence. The contrasting flavors of chocolate and vanilla will have everyone reaching for seconds.
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Sweet Tea: For a refreshing twist, serve the cake with a chilled glass of sweet tea. The tea’s lightness balances perfectly against the dense cake, providing a crisp finish to each bite.
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Lemon Zest: Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest on top of the glaze introduces a hint of citrus that brightens the dessert. This adds vibrancy, contrasting beautifully with the richness of the bundt.
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Sparkling Water: A bubbly, sparkling water not only cleanses the palate but also adds a refreshing touch that complements the sweetness of the cake.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce creates an indulgent experience that enhances the depth of flavors in the bundt cake. It’s a rich pairing that will impress your guests.
Treat your loved ones to these delightful accompaniments, and enjoy the magic of your Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake with a Buttery Crumb together!
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Vanilla Bundt Cakes with a Buttery Crumb are perfect for busy home cooks who want to savor homemade flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the batter, pour it into your prepared bundt pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even baking. The cake can also be baked and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy a deliciously moist cake that’s just as delightful as when it came out of the oven!
How to Store and Freeze Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake
Room Temperature: Store your bundt cake wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: If you want to extend the shelf life, keep it in the fridge for up to a week, ensuring it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze slices of the classic vanilla bundt cake in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake Variations
Mix it up and make this delightful cake your own with these fun twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a sensitive tummy-friendly version. Ensure to measure accurately for an even bake.
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Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange into the batter for a bright, refreshing twist. The citrus aroma will infuse warmth into every bite.
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Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. These little bursts of chocolate will melt beautifully into the cake’s buttery crumb.
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Spices Galore: Spice it up with a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile. It infuses the cake with comforting notes, perfect for cozy occasions.
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Nutty Goodness: Incorporate 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch. Each slice will carry a delightful texture that enhances the overall experience.
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Coconut Delight: Mix in 1 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist. Pair it with a lime glaze for a refreshing finish that transports you to sandy shores.
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Fruit-Enhanced: Fold in 1 cup of diced strawberries or blueberries to add freshness. Bursting with fruity goodness, this variation is sure to brighten your dessert spread.
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Herbal Infusion: Try adding a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary for an unexpected herbaceous note. This unique twist will surprise and delight your taste buds!
Feel free to experiment, and let your creativity shine as you bake this classic bundt cake!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake has the perfect texture, always cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and airy crumb.
- When greasing your bundt pan, get into all the nooks and crannies to prevent sticking, and consider using a combination of butter and flour for the best release.
- For optimal results, allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack, as this will help maintain its shape and moisture.
Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake with a Buttery Crumb Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients for my bundt cake?
Absolutely! When choosing butter, look for good-quality unsalted butter; it should be fresh, creamy, and not overly hard. The eggs should be large and at room temperature for the best incorporation into the batter. For flour, make sure it’s fresh and not past the expiration date, as this can affect the texture of the cake.
How should I store my Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake?
You can keep your bundt cake at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days. If you prefer to prolong its freshness, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze my Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake? How?
Yes, you can freeze your bundt cake! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place the slices in the fridge overnight before serving.
What can I do if my bundt cake sticks to the pan?
Oh no, that can be frustrating! To prevent sticking, make sure you’ve generously buttered and floured your bundt pan. If it does stick, allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes in the pan first. Then, gently run a knife around the edges to loosen it before inverting it onto a cooling rack. If it’s still stubborn, you can place the pan in a warm oven for a few minutes, which can help loosen the cake.
Are there any dietary considerations I need to keep in mind for this recipe?
Definitely! If you or someone you are serving has allergies, this recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and dairy. For a dairy-free option, you could substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based butter and use non-dairy milk. Ensure to double-check any store-bought ingredients you use, like the baking powder, which may sometimes contain gluten.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake?
Very! You can try adding fresh zest of a lemon or orange for a citrusy twist that complements the vanilla. Also, incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even fold in some chocolate chips or nuts into the batter before baking, but remember, this might change the texture slightly!
Classic Vanilla Bundt Cake with a Buttery Crumb
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour your bundt pan.
- Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk and vanilla.
- Pour the batter into the bundt pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for about 70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth and drizzle it over the cooled cake.
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