Gluten-Free Classic Vanilla Layer Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Indulge in the timeless elegance of this Gluten-Free Classic Vanilla Layer Cake with Buttercream Frosting—a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any celebration, minus the gluten. Delightfully soft and fluffy, this layered masterpiece is made with a carefully balanced blend of gluten-free all-purpose flour, rich buttermilk, and pure vanilla extract for a flavor that’s both classic and comforting. Topped with a luscious, silky-smooth buttercream frosting, this cake is a dream come true for gluten-free baking enthusiasts. Whether you’re hosting a birthday, wedding, or casual gathering, this easy-to-make recipe promises a moist, tender crumb and irresistible taste that everyone will love—gluten-free or not. Enjoy customizable decorations and a stunning presentation from this deliciously versatile dessert!

Nutriscore Rating: 31/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1.5 cups buttermilk, room temperature
• 0.5 teaspoon gluten-free baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 4 cups confectioners' sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 2 tablespoons milk

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans with gluten-free flour. Line the bottom with parchment paper if desired.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large bowl using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter on high speed until creamy, about 1 minute.

Step 4

Add the granulated sugar and beat on high speed until light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes.

Step 5

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 6

On low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Step 7

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to spread the batter into an even layer.

Step 8

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9

For the frosting, in a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed with a hand mixer or in a stand mixer until creamy, about 2 minutes.

Step 10

Add the confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat on low until the sugar is incorporated, then increase to high speed and beat for 3 minutes until fluffy.

Step 11

If the frosting seems too thick, mix in a little more milk, about 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Step 12

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place the first layer on a serving plate. Evenly cover it with frosting. Place the second layer on top and spread the frosting on the top and sides of the cake.

Step 13

Decorate the cake as desired and serve. Enjoy your gluten-free vanilla cake!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2304.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	8468.7

Total Fat 411.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 251.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 1795.0mg	0%
Sodium 3688.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 1194.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.2g	0%
Total Sugars 919.8g
Protein 48.2g	0%

Vitamin D 480.2IU	0%
Calcium 710.0mg	0%
Iron 6.5mg	0%
Potassium 995.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.7%

Protein: 2.2%

Carbs: 55.1%