Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake

Name: Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole milk; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Tasty Treat Recipes

Indulge in the delightful taste of this Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake, perfectly replicating the beloved classic with its moist layers and creamy frosting.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:54:20.083Z

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is a tribute to the iconic dessert that has earned a special place in our hearts. With its rich vanilla flavor and fluffy texture, it's perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat any day of the week.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy cake layers bursting with vanilla flavor
Creamy buttercream frosting that perfectly complements the cake
Easy to make, yet impresses as a showstopper dessert

      

The Perfect Vanilla Cake for Any Occasion

Vanilla cake is a timeless classic that has a special place in the hearts of cake lovers everywhere. Whether it's a birthday party, a wedding celebration, or just a cozy family gathering, this Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is sure to impress. Its moist and fluffy layers combine with the rich flavor of vanilla, making it a delightful choice for any event. The versatility of this cake allows it to be decorated in numerous ways, from simple designs to extravagant creations, catering to your personal style.

One of the standout features of this cake is its ability to be customized. You can easily add fresh fruits, chocolate chips, or even a hint of citrus to elevate the flavor profile. With a few simple adjustments, you can create a unique twist on the classic vanilla cake that suits your taste. This adaptability makes it a favorite among both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the perfect cake, measuring your ingredients accurately is crucial. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour, as too much can lead to a dry cake. Additionally, room temperature ingredients blend better, so allow your butter, eggs, and milk to sit out for about 30 minutes before starting your recipe. This simple step can dramatically enhance the texture and flavor of your cake.

Another important tip is to check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer before baking. Oven temperatures can vary, and even a slight difference can affect baking time and the final result. For even baking, always position your cake pans in the center of the oven and rotate them halfway through the baking process. This will help ensure that your cakes rise evenly and have a beautiful golden color.

Storing and Serving Your Cake

Once your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is decorated and ready to serve, you want to make sure it stays fresh. Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have more cake than you can eat in that time, consider refrigerating it to extend its shelf life. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

When it comes to serving, this cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Consider enjoying it with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. For a festive touch, serve it alongside seasonal fruits or a scoop of ice cream. Your guests will appreciate the delightful combination of flavors and textures, making every bite a truly memorable experience.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup whole milk
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add vanilla and heavy cream, adjusting the cream until the desired consistency is reached.

Beat until light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.

For an added touch, decorate with sprinkles or fresh fruit!

Understanding Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final outcome of your cake. Using high-quality vanilla extract is crucial, as it provides the primary flavor. Look for pure vanilla extract, as imitation vanilla can lack depth and richness. Additionally, using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in your cake, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.

When it comes to flour, all-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe. However, if you're looking for a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead. Cake flour has a lower protein content, resulting in a softer crumb. This small switch can elevate your cake to a bakery-quality treat that you and your guests will love.

Creative Decoration Ideas

Once your cake is assembled and frosted, it’s time to think about decoration! Simple options like sprinkles, fresh fruit, or edible flowers can add a beautiful touch to your cake without needing advanced decorating skills. For a more polished look, consider using a piping bag to create decorative swirls or rosettes with your buttercream frosting.

For a themed event, you can also customize your cake's decoration. Use colored frosting or themed cake toppers to match the occasion. Whether it's a birthday, wedding, or holiday celebration, personalizing your cake makes it even more special and memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months. Just make sure they are well wrapped.

→ What can I substitute for the butter?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute if you prefer.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.