Gluten Free Vanilla Cake

Total time1 hr 25 min

Prep time20 min

Cook time35 min

This classic two-layer cake bakes up soft and tender thanks to a smart mix of applesauce, butter, and a touch of oil in the batter, with a splash of vinegar working alongside the baking soda for extra lift. The crumb turns out moist and fine, with real vanilla extract giving it that warm, bakery-style flavor in every bite. Once cooled, the layers get stacked and coated in a fluffy, sifted-powdered-sugar frosting that's beaten until light and spreadable, then swept over the top and sides with an offset spatula for that classic smooth finish. It's a reliable, from-scratch layer cake that works beautifully for birthdays or any occasion worth celebrating, and it's a great pick to add to a gluten free baking rotation. Simple pantry staples and standard mixing techniques make this one approachable even if layer cakes feel intimidating.

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Ingredients

12 servings

For the cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
King Arthur Baking Company Gluten-Free Measure For Measure Flour Bob’s Red Mill 1 to 1 Baking Flour Pillsbury Best Gluten Free All Purpose Flour Blend - 24 Oz Bob's Red Mill Baking Flour, 1 to 1, Gluten Free King Arthur Gluten Free Measure for Measure Flour
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Chef's tip
Choose a gluten-free baking blend labeled 1:1 or cup-for-cup and use the same amount. Almond and coconut flour won't work the same way.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup whole milk
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup neutral oil (such as canola oil or vegetable oil)
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tbsp white vinegar

For the frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
3 tbsp whole milk
1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans, line the bottoms with parchment paper, and grease the parchment.
2
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.

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