This classic vanilla is to die for

#### Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Start by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking powder**, **baking soda**, and **salt**. Set aside. This will help ensure the dry ingredients are well-distributed.

3. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to cream together the **butter** and **sugar** until light and fluffy, about **3-4 minutes**. This step is crucial for getting a soft, airy texture in your cake.

4. **Add the Eggs and Vanilla**:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the **vanilla extract** and mix until combined.

5. **Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients**:
Gradually add the **dry ingredients** into the wet mixture, alternating with the **milk** and **sour cream**. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.

6. **Bake**:
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for about **25-30 minutes** or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time to ensure it doesn’t overbake.

7. **Cool and Frost**:
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once it’s cool, you can frost it with your favorite **vanilla buttercream** or enjoy it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar.

### Why This Vanilla Cake Is to Die For

– **Moist and Fluffy**: Thanks to the combination of **sour cream** and **butter**, this cake is incredibly moist while still being light and fluffy.
– **Rich Vanilla Flavor**: With the addition of **pure vanilla extract**, the flavor is rich, aromatic, and comforting. It’s not overly sweet, making it perfect for pairing with fruit, ice cream, or a decadent frosting.
– **Versatile**: This cake is a fantastic base for a variety of desserts. Whether you’re making a layered birthday cake, a cupcake, or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of tea, this vanilla cake works for any occasion.

### Variations and Tips

– **Add-ins**: You can easily elevate this classic vanilla cake by adding a handful of **chocolate chips**, **fruit**, or **nuts** to the batter for added texture and flavor.
– **Vanilla Bean Option**: For an even more decadent vanilla flavor, try using **vanilla bean paste** or the seeds from a **vanilla bean** instead of vanilla extract. It adds a natural, rich depth of flavor and beautiful specks of vanilla throughout the cake.
– **Frosting Ideas**: Pair this vanilla cake with a **vanilla buttercream frosting** for the ultimate treat, or mix it up with a **chocolate ganache** or **cream cheese frosting** for contrast.

### Serving Suggestions

– **Layered Cakes**: Use this recipe to create a stunning layered cake for special occasions, like birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries. Decorate with your favorite frosting, fresh berries, or edible flowers.
– **Cupcakes**: If you’re short on time, use this recipe to make **delicious cupcakes**. Simply fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full and bake for about 18-20 minutes.
– **Cake and Ice Cream**: Serve a warm slice of this cake with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a simple yet indulgent dessert.

### Final Thoughts: A Vanilla Recipe That Will Always Satisfy

This **classic vanilla cake recipe** is truly a dessert that everyone will love. Its simple yet rich flavor, combined with its soft and moist texture, makes it a go-to recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just want a comforting treat, this vanilla cake will never disappoint.

The best part? The **classic vanilla flavor** will never go out of style. It’s a timeless favorite that can be dressed up or down, and it’s always sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So the next time you’re in the kitchen, make sure to whip up this **classic vanilla cake**, and you’ll see why it’s a recipe that’s truly **to die for**. Enjoy!