A simple, foolproof cake that’s light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This eggless vanilla cake is quick, easy, and requires just one bowl—no complicated steps or special equipment! It’s soft, moist, and versatile, making it ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or everyday treats. The lemon juice reacts with baking soda for a perfect rise, while oil keeps it tender for days.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1¾ cups (210g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- 6 tbsp (90ml) neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or sunflower)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
(Optional: ½ tsp almond extract or citrus zest for variation)
Instructions
1. Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch (20cm) round or square pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
- Make a well in the center. Add water, oil, lemon juice, and vanilla.
- Stir just until combined (don’t overmix; small lumps are fine).
4. Bake
- Pour batter into the pan and bake for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Cool & Decorate
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Frost with buttercream, whipped cream, or glaze once completely cool.
Tips for Success
✔ Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.
✔ Don’t overmix—this keeps the cake tender.
✔ For extra moisture, brush cooled cake with simple syrup (1:1 sugar + water).
✔ Storage: Keep covered at room temperature for 3 days or freeze unfrosted layers.
Serving Suggestions
- Layered with strawberry jam and cream
- Topped with chocolate ganache and berries
- Served with custard or ice cream
Final Thoughts
This eggless vanilla cake is a blank canvas for creativity—simple enough for beginners but sturdy enough for tiered cakes. The absence of eggs doesn’t compromise texture, and the one-bowl method makes cleanup a breeze.
Perfect for last-minute celebrations or vegan baking!
Variation: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to half the batter for a marbled effect.