An easy vanilla cake recipe anyone can make in one bowl using pantry staple ingredients. Great for birthdays, snacks, or quick desserts.

Scale

1½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup sugar

½ cup neutral oil

¾ cup milk or non-dairy milk

2 eggs

1½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional zest of 1 lemon or orange

Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare an 8-inch cake pan.

In one bowl, whisk sugar, oil, and eggs until smooth.

Stir in milk, vanilla, and zest.

Sift in flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until batter is smooth.

Pour into pan and bake for 33–36 minutes. Let cool before serving.

This batter can be used for cupcakes or snack bars.

Try adding citrus zest, cocoa powder, or berries.

Keywords: simple cake recipes, one bowl vanilla cake, easy homemade cake