Wheat Free Vanilla Cake

Total time1 hr 25 min

Prep time20 min

Cook time35 min

This classic layer cake bakes up soft and tender, with vanilla running through both the crumb and the frosting for that warm, unmistakable flavor in every bite. Applesauce and a touch of oil keep the layers moist while a hit of vinegar reacts with the baking soda for a fine, even rise and a level, golden top. The frosting is whipped light and fluffy, built from creamy butter and sifted powdered sugar until it turns silky enough to spread in smooth, even swoops over both layers. Once cooled, the cake stacks into a tall, bakery-style dessert with a generous frosted crumb and clean slices. It's a reliable, crowd-pleasing option to bring to a birthday table or holiday spread, and it fits neatly into a wheat free rotation. Simple pantry staples and straightforward mixing steps make this one approachable even for casual bakers looking for a foolproof vanilla cake.

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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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