Quick & Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe, Wacky Cake | Jenny Can Cook (2024)

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Quick & Easy Vanilla Cake

Try to have your oil at room temperature and aerate your flour before measuring. This was not an easy recipe to perfect so for a good result, do not make any changes. - Jenny Jones

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Makes: 8 servings

Quick & Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe, Wacky Cake | Jenny Can Cook (1)

Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup (less 2 Tablespoons) cool water
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (I use avocado oil)
  • 1 Tablespoon distilled white vinegar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
  2. Place dry ingredients into a bowl and combine well, stirring or whisking until thoroughly blended.
  3. In a small bowl, combine water, oil, vinegar, and vanilla.
  4. Add liquids to flour mixture & gently stir until there are no lumps (about 30 seconds).
  5. Pour into pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool completely in the pan and frost. (try my 2-Minute Vanilla Frosting)

Too much sugar? I tried using less sugar but it did not turn out.
Use a different pan? I tried an 8-inch round pan and it did not turn out.
More: There's more on this recipe in my blog. Click here.

Leave a Comment

  1. Theresa Bryan

    January 10, 2024 at 2:10 pm

    Thank you so much I was supposed to share a cake with a class and it really turned out wrong . you totally saved me!

    Reply to this comment

  2. Meg

    December 4, 2023 at 5:44 pm

    I want to make this cake for my grandsons birthday, but he wants funfetti cake. Will adding sprinkles to the batter ruin it?

    Reply to this comment

  3. Carol

    September 25, 2023 at 9:01 pm

    Love the recipe but can i use yogert instead of sugar and applesauce instead of oil for my dieting? And will it turn out?

    Reply to this comment

    • Jenny Can Cook

      September 26, 2023 at 9:15 am

      Please see the note at the top of the recipe. It will not turn out with any changes.

      Reply to this comment

    • Ang

      August 5, 2023 at 8:09 pm

      This cake is genius. I followed the recipe exactly (doubled) and can’t believe how great the taste and texture came out, I got so many compliments. Almost as easy as a box mix but without the artificial taste and ingredients. I also used the 2-minute vanilla frosting (had to almost triple that recipe to have enough for filling and icing) and it was AMAZING.

      Reply to this comment

    • Amy

      July 12, 2023 at 8:28 am

      The cake is perfect … great recipe ! Thank you for all of your wonderful recipes … I’ve never been disappointed!

      Reply to this comment

    • Kim

      May 9, 2023 at 2:51 pm

      Jenny Jones;
      Hi,I just made your vanilla cake and it is in the oven for 30 minutes and 21 minutes to go before it is done baking.I just ran out of vanilla extract that I used in your cake,can I use the 2 minute chocolate frosting on the vanilla cake after it cools on the counter.
      Kim

      Reply to this comment

    • Wilson

      April 27, 2023 at 7:13 pm

      This is a really quick and easy recipe. I was kind of surprised it didn’t require eggs. I deviated from the recipe slightly by adding some cinnamon and nutmeg for a hint of spice. Also, I divided the cake batter evenly into four mini angel food pans and baked for 18 mins. They came out nice and moist. Drizzled a little glaze on top. DELICIOUS with a strong cup of coffee. Thanks for another great recipe, Jenny!

      Reply to this comment

    • Ryan

      February 18, 2023 at 11:28 pm

      Hello,

      I made this cake according to the recipe and it was great. I have been looking for a dairy free cake and this one takes the…well…CAKE!!! Lol!!! I used an 8in round pan and it turned out great. I wanted it to be a bit taller because I intended to torte the cake. I added a bag of Lily’s White Choclate Baling Chips to the batter. I then made a simple buttercream and in between the layers I piped a dam strip around the edge in between the two layers and in the middle I filled it with strawberry preserves. I then mixed some strawberry preserves into the buttercream and piped some swirls all around the edge of the top of the cake and spread a nice layer of the preserves in the middle of the top of the cake. I left the sides bare because it looked beautiful. It turned out to be one of the best and most beautiful tea cakes. Thank you so much for this incredibly simple recipe. It was absolutely delicious and could not have been more simple and incredibly versatile. This is being added to my personal arsenal of recipes I keep for sudden and last minute baking.

      Reply to this comment

      • Ryan

        February 18, 2023 at 11:31 pm

        I also increased the vanilla to 2 1/2 tsp as I love a very prominent vanilla flavor. Pro tip: this may seem obvious but one of the most important ingredient in any bakers kitchen is a high quality PURE vanilla extract. Yes it is expensive but it’s beyond worth it as it makes all the difference.

        Reply to this comment

      • Jen

        January 11, 2023 at 6:47 pm

        How much water do I use? It says 1 cup (less than two tablespoons). What does that mean? I want to make tomorrow for my sons birthday. Please help! Also is this a sweet tasking cake?

        Reply to this comment

        • Jenny Can Cook

          January 11, 2023 at 8:23 pm

          Measure one cup and then remove 2 tablespoons from the cup so you use a little less than one cup. It says “1 cup (less 2 Tablespoons)” not less THAN… I hope that helps.

          Reply to this comment

          • Jen

            January 12, 2023 at 6:34 am

            Yes thank you that helps! Also if I don’t have white distilled vinegar, will apple cider or lemon work just as good? Which one would be better? Or should I go get vinegar?

            Reply to this comment

            • Jen

              January 12, 2023 at 9:21 am

              Just made it…it’s cooling but I tried the mix before I put it in the oven and it tastes so good!! Can’t wait to try the frosting recipe and eat it tonight!

              Reply to this comment

            • Pam in Iowa'

              January 5, 2023 at 5:07 pm

              Happy New Year 2023! I made this cake in two 6 inch round cake pans. I used clear vanilla to keep the cake really white and used Almond extract in Jenny’s 2 minute vanilla frosting. It was just enough frosting to use inbetween the two layers and the top. I left the sides bare and sprinkled birthday party color sprinkles on top. Delicious! Have a pretty slice now with a glass of ice cold milk. Thank you for a great recipe that uses pantry ingredients for any spur of the moment party!

              Reply to this comment

            • Izzy

              July 14, 2022 at 6:34 pm

              I am soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo not Auroras friend

              Reply to this comment

            • Aurora

              July 14, 2022 at 6:31 pm

              I ate half the batter and had to make another recipe to fill pan, so good raw though. But I suggest not copying me. I love trying new recipes. I am only 12 but have tried so many and this one is in my top 10 for sure. Me and my friend Izzy made this recipe together and made quite a mess, and she has flour all over her toes. we had fun, though we almost peed our pants, thankfully we did not, thankfully. how are you guys and girls doing.

              Reply to this comment

              • Izzy

                July 14, 2022 at 6:32 pm

                Aurora you are so strange

                Reply to this comment

              • Izzy

                July 14, 2022 at 6:35 pm

                I am soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo not Auroras friend

                Reply to this comment

              • Aurora

                July 14, 2022 at 6:11 pm

                so yummy! Shoud make a half recipe though, so hard to split apart

                Reply to this comment

                • Mary

                  August 4, 2022 at 9:00 am

                  Gotta love you young gals!
                  So happy that you are trying Jenny’s great recipes and having fun while doing it.
                  I was your age when I started baking every weekend and still love doing it now that I am a grandmother and the kiddies love it too!
                  Jenny you are inspiring so many!

                  Reply to this comment

                • Peggy

                  July 6, 2022 at 4:36 pm

                  This is NO NEW recipe. This recipe was published in one of my childhood magazines. It was called “Crazy Cake” then. I must have been around 10 years of age and I will be 82 in a few months been making this Crazy Cake all these years. It amazes me how someone takes an old recipe, renames it, and behold younger people think it’s new. I just made “Crazy Cake” in Chocolate and spice this past week. I just saw this same recipe, titled, “Poor Man’s Cake” and War-time cake.” (Some people will say the recipe they’re making is 100 years old or whatever not claiming it is new or original.)

                  Reply to this comment

                  • Jenny Can Cook

                    July 6, 2022 at 9:24 pm

                    Peggy, like many home cooks, I have my own version of recipes that have been around for years, including this cake, meatloaf, sandwich bread, pizza, mac & cheese, hard-boiled eggs, oatmeal cookies, apple pie, pancakes, I could go on. With millions of cooks around the world, I expect that some recipes will be similar. I like to think my methods are simpler, which is helpful to most busy cooks. Rather than suggest I am dishonest, I hope you can appreciate that I am just sharing the recipes that I have developed at home, recipes that are original to me, as I do not copy other recipes to claim as my own.
                    Jenny
                    p.s. Your version of Crazy Cake with chocolate and spice sounds good. If you like, feel free to share your recipe here.

                    Reply to this comment

                    • Bonnie

                      September 24, 2022 at 6:06 am

                      Right on, Jenny. Thanks so much for your versions of recipes — your Dutch oven bread got me hooked on all you do, and I just think your sense of humor is a hoot!
                      I live alone in Minnesota lake country and playing your videos while I cook/bake helps me feel not so alone.
                      I’m going to try this cake recipe as cupcakes… hoping it works!

                      Reply to this comment

                    • Marie

                      November 26, 2022 at 8:02 am

                      Jenny, I love your recipes. You are making cooking and baking SO much easier AND fun. I am almost 78 and appreciate the humor you put in your videos.
                      Many thanks and blessings to you,
                      Marie

                      Reply to this comment

                    • Sandra

                      January 29, 2023 at 9:17 am

                      I just want to say thank you Jenny! Your recipies always turn out for me and there is a lot to be said for that, thank you for making recipies bullet proof and yummy and easy! I am enjoying your site soooooo much! So is hubby : )

                      Reply to this comment

                    • Vonholley

                      September 8, 2022 at 3:41 pm

                      Wow OK Negative Nancy she’s just sharing recipes it’s not that serious. Relax and try smiling.

                      Reply to this comment

                    • Banshee

                      October 30, 2022 at 8:06 am

                      Thank you, Jenny, for this marvelous recipe. As an extreme novice in cooking and baking, I never would have known about these cakes, and you are the one I learned these from.

                      Also, your videos are clever, funny, a joy to watch, and you offer so much free information, and useful, step-by-step instructions, and are not asking anything in return.

                      Very appreciated – thank you for sharing…you are a marvel in this particular day and age!

                      PS – my husband LOVES these cakes (the chocolate one also) and his favorites are the Pepperidge Farm Cakes. This is so close in lightness and goodness. We usually eat 3/4 of the cake when I make it!

                      Reply to this comment

                    • Linda

                      January 22, 2023 at 10:44 pm

                      I grew up knowing this as “my grandma’s secret cake.” I love that Jenny shared her recipe. It totally reminded me of my grandma’s cake. Also love that it super easy to make. My grandma never wrote any of her recipes down. She would just say, “Watch, and learn. Maybe one day…if you’re lucky enough, you’ll get the recipe.” Then she’d chuckle. Oh I’ve tried to re-create her recipe over the years. I gave up. My son was looking for an easy cake recipe, something quick. Like right now. He happened on this one. When I tasted it, 😋 😍 loving memories of where, and when, and a sweet chuckle. Only this time, it was me. I enjoy this making this cake often. Thank you Jenny for sharing💖

                      Reply to this comment

                    • Marie Tisdell

                      May 8, 2022 at 11:21 am

                      Hi Jenny, Happy Mother’s Day! I made your recipe for Vanilla Cake today. It was a double batch for both cake and frosting. Took your advice every step of the way. This cake is delicious. Thank you very much for your hard work to make such an excellent recipe and for sharing! I added this to my (Keep Recipes) I wanted to post a picture but couldn’t figure out how to do it. Most important is, it came out perfect. God Bless! Much Appreciated!!!

                      Reply to this comment

                    • Marie Tisdell

                      May 8, 2022 at 11:20 am

                      Hi Jenny, Happy Mother’s Day! I made your recipe for Vanilla Cake today. It was a double batch for both cake and frosting. Took your advice every step of the way. This cake is delicious. Thank you very much for your hard work to make such an excellent recipe and for sharing! I added this to my (Keep Recipes) I wanted to post a picture but couldn’t figure out how to do it. Most important is, it was delicious and came out perfect. God Bless! Much Appreciated!!!

                      Reply to this comment

                    • Tanya Rodriguez

                      January 30, 2022 at 2:23 pm

                      If I put half a cup of sugar should I reduce the vanilla too?

                      Reply to this comment

                      • Charlotte

                        May 2, 2022 at 2:31 am

                        Sugar is needed for sweetness as well as structure. 1/2 cup of sugar will not provide enough of either.

                        Reply to this comment

                      • Nadia

                        January 19, 2022 at 11:52 am

                        Cake turned out great. Super easy; used lemon instead of vinegar. Baked two portions to make a layered cake for husband’s bday today.

                        Reply to this comment

                      • Sophie

                        December 26, 2021 at 7:59 am

                        Hubby used the stand mixer and I think it changed the texture to strangely spongey. Icing was very tasty though.

                        Reply to this comment

                      • Tina

                        November 22, 2021 at 12:13 pm

                        I made it today and turned out beautiful 😊

                        Reply to this comment

                      • Helen

                        November 16, 2021 at 12:22 pm

                        I promised cupcakes so I gave it a shot knowing if it failed it would be my fault. I am allergic to milk eggs and soy. I made the decision a while ago to only make desserts I can have. They came out beautifully.

                        Reply to this comment

                        • Blanca

                          July 15, 2023 at 8:20 am

                          I couldn’t drink milk for years.I tried for about 3 years the pills they sell at Wal-Mart the ones you can take over the counter with milk and icecream and now I don’t need the pills any more.

                          Reply to this comment

                        • Sandi H

                          November 6, 2021 at 8:12 pm

                          This was SO good! I couldn’t believe how moist and delicate it was. Excellent recipe. I followed it exactly as written. My new favorite cake.

                          Reply to this comment

                        • Marie

                          September 25, 2021 at 5:41 pm

                          Would this recipe for vanilla cake taste good if I use a gluten free flour blend as I have celiac?
                          Any suggestions will be appreciated.

                          Reply to this comment

                        • Nanatimes7

                          September 15, 2021 at 1:06 pm

                          Hi Jenny, I just wanted to thank you for this delicious and easy cake and frosting. This is the second time I have made this wonderful cake and my husband and son and I can’t get enough of it!!
                          Thank you for sharing your recipes with us. And you are a very entertaining cook, as well!!
                          Sincerely,
                          Nanatimes7

                          Reply to this comment

                        • Brenda

                          August 10, 2021 at 1:00 pm

                          I made this with my 3 year old granddaughter. Quick, easy and delicious. Easy clean up too. Thank you.

                          Reply to this comment

                        • Kristie

                          August 5, 2021 at 4:43 pm

                          Love Love this easy cake. I made it with your 2 min chocolate frosting and my kids devoured it.

                          Reply to this comment

                        • Summer

                          July 6, 2021 at 9:32 am

                          cake did not rise well followed recipe to a tee…not sure if I want to keep it

                          Reply to this comment

                          • Marlene

                            July 6, 2021 at 2:23 pm

                            When someone says they followed the recipe to a T and it didn’t turn out, they did not follow it to a T. Jenny even said not to make any changes. I made this recipe a dozen times and it always turns out. I suggest you check your leaveners for freshness, don’t change anything, and use a 9-inch pan.

                            Reply to this comment

                            • Betty

                              August 5, 2021 at 1:49 pm

                              Can you lemon juice in place of vinegar?

                              Reply to this comment

                            • Summer

                              August 5, 2021 at 4:33 pm

                              for your info i did not make ANY changes the cake sucked and besides i found a way better one

                              Reply to this comment

                              • Donna

                                October 1, 2021 at 5:44 am

                                I have made so many of Jenny’s recipes this one was quick, easy but most of all delicious. I am an avid baker. I added lady fingers to the outside and made a gorgeous dessert. This helped make an amazing dessert. Sorry you were disappointed next time try not being so rude.

                                Reply to this comment

                              • Amy

                                June 26, 2021 at 7:40 pm

                                Quick & easy vanilla cake … always sinks in the center when it cools. What am I doing wrong ??
                                See photo. Thank you

                                Reply to this comment

                                • Andie

                                  June 30, 2021 at 4:19 pm

                                  Google “why does my cake sink in the middle”

                                  Reply to this comment

                                • Lynn Robinson

                                  April 26, 2021 at 2:34 pm

                                  I really like Jenny’s recipes, especially the desserts, because they remind me so much of the war-time desserts, cakes and dessert breads, since you can make them without butter, lard or eggs. These were items scarce as hens teeth during and even after World War II. I was born just after the war and I watched my grandmother and great-aunt bake that way. Also, I still use her recipes that were written: “not too heaping a teaspoon” and a “scant cup of lard” (which I replaced with just a scant cup of crisco”. Jenny’s are definitely healthier. Also, I live in Ontario, Canada and our eggs cost 50 cents a piece (yes, that’s right!), so I appreciate these recipes a great deal. I recently came across a wartime recipe for “water pie”, and it really does exist. I think Paula Deen found a recipe for it as well. My favourite recipe from my grandmother was her really soft oatmeal cookies that began with “soaking golden raisins in a cup of strong coffee over night” and the cookies are really like little muffins.☺️ …my favourite!

                                  Reply to this comment

                                  • Bonnie

                                    September 24, 2022 at 6:12 am

                                    What an awesome idea to soak raisins in coffee for oatmeal cookies! Thank you so much for sharing your grandmother’s trick! Going to try this in my next batch. 😁👍

                                  • Rebecca

                                    March 10, 2021 at 9:54 am

                                    I made this cake for the first time last night and it was absolutely delicious. I split it into two 9-inch pans and baked it at 340 degrees for 20 minutes and it came out perfect. Frosted it with whipped cream and fresh strawberries and it is now my family’s favorite cake. I know I’ll be making this again and again. Thank you!

                                    Reply to this comment

                                    • Lynn Robinson

                                      April 25, 2021 at 4:43 pm

                                      I absolutely love this recipe! I wanted something healthy and easier to make so I could use it instead of shortcake. I made mine in one 8” square glass baking pan. Came out beautifully! I cut mine into nine squares and used one square sliced in half for each plate. On top of the bottom layer I placed crushed pineapple with juice straight from the can, then a spoonful of freshly whipped cream, top piece of the square and more pineapple and whipped cream!! That is so much easier and healthier than my old recipe for shortcake. Thank you to Jenny again for all her hard work to make these recipes for us!!❤️💕☺️ I pretty much use only Jenny’s recipes for nearly all the food I make!

                                      Reply to this comment

                                      • Lynn Robinson

                                        April 25, 2021 at 4:53 pm

                                        Sorry, 🙄. P.S. from me above: I baked mine @350 F for 28 min in one square 8” glass pan. No other changes. (I didn’t know how to add this to my first comment 🙃) I’m a klutz!

                                        Reply to this comment

                                      • Chey505

                                        January 18, 2021 at 10:39 am

                                        I LOVE you, Jenny! You have saved me so many times when I’m in frantic/panic cooking mode, trying to pull together a meal for company. This cake is definitely a save for me – definitely saved me a lot of time and fuss. I baked it in an 8″ square pan which worked well; then sliced it horizontally to fill with lemon curd & topped with a light glaze. Serving for dessert with homemade vanilla ice cream. Simple and easy. THANK YOU!!!

                                        Reply to this comment

                                      • Mary

                                        January 5, 2021 at 7:22 am

                                        I made this vanilla cake with the avocado oil and it turned out great but it had an unusual taste (I think from the oil). I used Wegmans brand extra virgin avocado oil. Did you use a different type?

                                        Reply to this comment

                                        • Jenny Can Cook

                                          January 5, 2021 at 7:25 pm

                                          Not all avocado oils are the same. Some are quite strong tasting. I use Chosen Foods brand, which is totally flavorless.

                                          Reply to this comment

                                        • Joani can Bake also?

                                          December 10, 2020 at 4:22 am

                                          I have loved baking cakes since my childhood. Unfortunately, my hubby prefers pies to cakes, so it isn’t as much fun to bake for him. However, when he tasted this yellow cake, he declared it was BETTER THAN PIE. He kept sneaking slices throughout the night, and when I woke up the next morning, the cake was 3/4 gone. He sheepishly looked at me and said: I guess a mouse got into it. Hahaha??. He can’t wait for me to make it again. Thanks for sharing this recipe, Jenny. This one is a keeper, even without the icing.

                                          Reply to this comment

                                        • Spamela

                                          November 28, 2020 at 4:35 pm

                                          Jenny ~ I made this today to share with my next door elder. I served it with apple-cranberry-orange sauce leftover from Thanksgiving. Oh my! So fabulous! I’m always grateful for your clever recipes and especially during pandemic because they’re so thoughtful with ingredients and portion sizes. Very grateful for you Jenny, thank you.

                                          Reply to this comment

                                        • Daxymom

                                          September 19, 2020 at 5:54 pm

                                          This cake is fabulous! I actually cut the recipe in half and used three mini bundt cakes. Baked for 20 min and they came out perfectly … cakes were unbelievably moist. Used your vanilla icing but thinned out with lemon juice. Poured over slightly warm cake, topped with sliced bananas and sprinkled with finely chopped walnuts. Served still warm with chamomile tea! DELICIOUS!!

                                          Reply to this comment

                                        • Audrey Hyman

                                          August 29, 2020 at 9:25 pm

                                          This was a big hit with my husband and don tonight. Whipped it up while we were relaxing after dinner, and within 1 hour we had a delicious dessert to satisfy their sweet craving. Next time, I’m teaching them how to make it! Thanks Jenny! Your recipes are always a hit in our house.

                                          Reply to this comment

                                        • Dee Y'all

                                          August 26, 2020 at 5:27 pm

                                          In this age of staying home more, I just made this cake….on a whim. OMG!!! It was just what I was craving!! And it couldn’t have been simpler to make. Who makes a “proper cake” without eggs…and uses water??? My mind is blown!!! This little recipe is going to get a lot of play!!! ??‍?
                                          Thanks Jenny!!

                                          Reply to this comment

                                          • Audrey Hyman

                                            August 29, 2020 at 9:26 pm

                                            So true! The same just happened in my house!

                                            Reply to this comment

                                          • tilly billy

                                            August 6, 2020 at 8:28 am

                                            i’m going to make it but i notice that there is no frosting? i need it for my moms birthday what should i do???

                                            Reply to this comment

                                            • tilly billy

                                              August 6, 2020 at 8:29 am

                                              hi tilly billy,

                                              make a frosting

                                              Reply to this comment

                                              • tilly billy

                                                August 6, 2020 at 8:30 am

                                                well,

                                                I didn’t know how and would like a recipe, that’s why i asked

                                                Reply to this comment

                                                • tilly billy

                                                  August 7, 2020 at 7:00 am

                                                  i’m making the cake right now!!!

                                                  Sooooooo easy!!!

                                                  Thx!!!

                                                  I’m soooo exited to taste it!!!

                                                  Reply to this comment

                                                  • Patricia

                                                    January 17, 2021 at 11:14 pm

                                                    I know your question about a frosting was posted a few months back but there’s a recipe for a 2 minute frosting with a link in the cake instructions on step #6. May not be helpful to you now but could be to someone like me who does read reviews 🙂

                                                    Reply to this comment

                                                  • Leasa

                                                    November 23, 2020 at 6:05 pm

                                                    There’s a frosting recipe at the bottom of the recipe.

                                                    Reply to this comment

                                                  • cool

                                                    February 9, 2021 at 10:29 am

                                                    haha i like your name 🤣

                                                    Reply to this comment

                                                  • Jenny Can Cook

                                                    August 6, 2020 at 8:44 am

                                                    There is a link for my “2-Minute Vanilla Frosting” in step 6. Or you can just click on this link: https://www.jennycancook.com/recipes/2-minute-vanilla-frosting/

                                                    Reply to this comment

                                                    • tilly billy

                                                      August 7, 2020 at 7:01 am

                                                      oh!!!

                                                      sorry, i didn’t notice that

                                                      Thank you soooooooo much!!!

                                                      Reply to this comment

                                                    • Daniyal

                                                      August 27, 2020 at 9:50 am

                                                      By Now Your Moms Birthday Must Have Passed But If You Look At The Instructions At The End It Says https://www.jennycancook.com/recipes/2-minute-vanilla-frosting/

                                                      Reply to this comment

                                                    • Lois clayton

                                                      August 1, 2020 at 10:46 am

                                                      Enjoy you very much. I really was hoping you be able to send me one of your books
                                                      I am 90 yrs old and would like my children to see how much joy you have given me

                                                      Reply to this comment

                                                    • Jana

                                                      July 31, 2020 at 1:34 pm

                                                      You made my day faq

                                                      Reply to this comment

                                                    • Jana

                                                      July 31, 2020 at 1:34 pm

                                                      You made my day

                                                      Reply to this comment

                                                    • Debbie

                                                      July 28, 2020 at 11:34 am

                                                      Jenny,
                                                      It was E X C E L L E N T! I wasn’t expecting much since it was so simple but I was surprised. Enough that I would write a review which I never do. It does taste like Birthday cake. I followed the recipe exactly but doubled the frosting. I plan to freeze some layers for later.
                                                      I made a lemon version of the vanilla cake using your Lemon Brownies glaze recipe and changed the cake slightly with great results.
                                                      For the cake I swapped lemon juice for the vinegar and the 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla was swapped for more lemon juice to keep the liquid amount the same. I added the zest of 2 lemons. Delicious.
                                                      I have made probably 20 loaves of your no knead bread for friend. We all love it. Love your videos!
                                                      Debbie

                                                      Reply to this comment

                                                    • Terry

                                                      July 22, 2020 at 5:23 pm

                                                      No, I have decided your life would have been so boring being a chemist, after reading your bio, consider writing a book, would not be a best seller, but that’s not the object, just an interesting read, think about it, you have so many followers who would love it ??

                                                      Reply to this comment

                                                    • Terry

                                                      July 22, 2020 at 3:25 pm

                                                      I was so excited to make this cake, however after searching for the 9”pan, remembered I threw it out, because it was a mess, my dear neighbor who shops and took pity on me, found me one at Walmart, a Wilton at that, you should have been a chemist, If everyone pays attention to directions, it is perfect, I did your fast 2 minute chocolate icing, added shredded coconut left it in the pan, delicious, that dear neighbor is on a continuous diet, would not let me share, Stay healthy, the world needs you, God is on your side!,,❤️

                                                      Reply to this comment

                                                    • Dorothy

                                                      July 16, 2020 at 9:42 am

                                                      We did not like this cake at all, neither the taste not the texture.
                                                      I was very disappointed as I have used your recipe for sweet rolls and polishdonuts.

                                                      Reply to this comment

                                                      • Nunya Bees

                                                        July 31, 2020 at 3:44 pm

                                                        You honestly could not keep that opinion to yourself? It was so important to share? You probably made it wrong.

                                                        Reply to this comment

                                                        • Leasa

                                                          December 1, 2020 at 6:04 pm

                                                          I agree with you. What purpose did the comment serve. I use Jenny’s recipes all the time.

                                                          Reply to this comment

                                                        • gordy

                                                          July 11, 2020 at 11:17 am

                                                          Jenny–I love all of your recipes.The no knead bread has becomes Gordy’s bread–everybody wants me to bake my bread for them
                                                          I made the Vanilla cake for the family and everybody loved it.I used sugar that had been laced with vanilla beans and the flavor was little more intense
                                                          Thank you for all the recipes!!! Gordy

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                                                        • Enjoys It All!

                                                          July 11, 2020 at 4:21 am

                                                          Loved this recipe! Baked this cake twice – first time exactly as recipe indicates. Yummy!
                                                          Second time with minor changes-fresh lemon juice instead of vinegar (personally I always seem to find vinegar leaves a slight aftertaste somehow), teaspoon or so grated lemon rind, used 1/2 butter and 1/2 oil (I know, defeats intent of dairy free). We enjoyed these revisions as a “summery” version.

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                                                          • Grannyrsh

                                                            July 13, 2020 at 5:20 am

                                                            So glad you tried lemon juice I have the same aftertaste problem when I use the vinegar. Thanks for sharing your changes!

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                                                            • Jen

                                                              January 11, 2023 at 6:56 pm

                                                              What did you use instead of vinegAr?

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                                                            • Esmeralda Castillo

                                                              July 9, 2020 at 12:53 pm

                                                              Made this cake immediately after Jenny posted it since I had all the ingredients. It turned out great!!! I actually only had a 9 inch pie pan and that worked and may help someone else that doesn’t have the cake one. I also used avocado oil like Jenny mentions. I didn’t have the white vinegar, but had apple cider vinegar and it worked also! The only thing that I did have to change was the cooking time. It definitely was NOT ready in 30 minutes. I poked the center at 30 minutes and it was very gooey still. Put it in 5 more minutes, still the toothpick came out sticky. Ended up going another 10 more minutes. Overall, it tasted wonderful! My boyfriend tried it that evening and he said it was soooo good and he’s very picky. I topped it off with Jenny’s 2 minute vanilla frosting and boy does it taste just like birthday cakes did when you were a child!!! Loved it all and I’m making it again tonight!

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                                                            • Ann

                                                              July 8, 2020 at 7:37 am

                                                              Wow, what flavour and so easy, thank you you are awsome

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                                                            • Mae in Oregon

                                                              July 6, 2020 at 9:33 pm

                                                              Jenny, You are brilliant! I made this incredible cake yesterday, following your recipie exactly, and it is absolutely the BEST white cake I have ever eaten! I can’t wait to share it with my family and friends………it is “over the moon” good! Thank You so very much!

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                                                            • Perlita

                                                              July 6, 2020 at 3:33 pm

                                                              I made the vanilla cake today. While I appreciate the effort that goes into developing a recipe, we did not like the cake. We found it “gluey” in texture and unfortunately, had to discard it.

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                                                              • JP

                                                                July 7, 2020 at 10:04 am

                                                                Hmmm… it sounds like you used the wrong pan. Jenny said an 8-inch pan made it sticky and dense and not edible. Try it again – her recipes never fail.

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                                                                • Tonya

                                                                  July 8, 2020 at 8:04 am

                                                                  Yes. She said to not make any changes to the recipe…pan included.

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                                                                • joni

                                                                  August 1, 2020 at 12:30 pm

                                                                  Jenny actually said to use a 9 inch cake pan, NOT 8 inch 🙂

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                                                                • Leasa

                                                                  December 1, 2020 at 6:07 pm

                                                                  I used an 8 inch pan the first time too. I couldn’t figure out what I did wrong. Then I read the don’t use an 9 inch pan thing. Used a 9 inch pan the second time and perfection.

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                                                                • Leasa

                                                                  December 1, 2020 at 6:08 pm

                                                                  I used an 8 inch pan the first time too. I couldn’t figure out what I did wrong. Then I read the don’t use an 8 inch pan thing. Used a 9 inch pan the second time and perfection.

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                                                                • Flour Pot

                                                                  July 6, 2020 at 11:31 am

                                                                  Easy to make just followed the directions exactly and it came out moist and not overly sweet. It’s a winner for us! Thanks Jenny!!

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                                                                • Pamela

                                                                  July 6, 2020 at 10:56 am

                                                                  Can you use eggs. I noticed you did not have eggs in the recipe

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                                                                • Lee Ann

                                                                  July 6, 2020 at 7:39 am

                                                                  Jenny, OMGGGGGGG, it is like you answered my prayers! My family thinks I can cook reallly great chocolate cake because I made your no eggs, no butter chocolate cake, and they think it is fantastic (as do I of course!) I have a few in my family that are not choc. fans, so I was trying to think of how to make the chocolate cake into a vanilla version, then POOF I got an email with that exact thing from you!!!! Now my family will REALLY think i know what I am doing…I may have to tell them its you, so they don’t ask for other stuff I might not be able to do! LOL, thank you a million and three times for this cake, its gonna be made into a lot of different versions for my non choc. peeps! YOU ROCK!!!!

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                                                                • susan

                                                                  July 6, 2020 at 7:18 am

                                                                  any chance of a sour cream coffee cake recipe??? I know it would be great. thank you

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                                                                • Julie

                                                                  July 6, 2020 at 6:29 am

                                                                  May I substitute unsweetened applesauce for the oil?

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                                                                • Mart

                                                                  July 6, 2020 at 6:03 am

                                                                  Is this cake dense enough to hold up to Fresh blueberry sauce for a topping?

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                                                                  • Charlotte

                                                                    May 2, 2022 at 2:44 am

                                                                    Absolutely.. that would work!

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                                                                  • Edith

                                                                    July 6, 2020 at 4:54 am

                                                                    Hello again
                                                                    Does anyone know if white vinegar can replace distilled white vinegar.
                                                                    I am from Canada and have asked for distilled vinegar and grocery
                                                                    stores here have not heard of distilled vinegar. Is our white vinegar
                                                                    the same. We have pickling vinegar and white vinegar.
                                                                    If anyone from Canada do you know where to buy distilled white vinegar.
                                                                    Thanks.

                                                                    Reply to this comment

                                                                    • Kathy Kopp

                                                                      July 6, 2020 at 7:51 am

                                                                      White vinegar not pickling vinegar works in this recipe…I’ve made this cake for years. Great recipe it was my first cake my mother taught me to bake.

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                                                                    • Joycelyn

                                                                      July 6, 2020 at 3:39 pm

                                                                      Hi Edith
                                                                      I’m in Canada too, the white vinegar you see sold in our grocery stores which will have 5% acidic acid or just 5% on the label, including no name white vinegar sold at super store is the same thing as distilled white vinegar.
                                                                      You don’t want to use pickling vinegar for this recipe as the acidity is too high usually 7% or more in some brands. The only thing I use pickling vinegar for if my dear spouse has picked some up by mistake is to use it with baking soda to keep sink drains clear and to mix with water to clean the windows.
                                                                      Hope this helps

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                                                                    • Barb

                                                                      July 8, 2020 at 9:35 am

                                                                      I picked up Distilled vinegar at Canadian Tire on-line ordering and picked it up
                                                                      curbside . I live in the Niagara region .

                                                                      Reply to this comment

See Also
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bundt Cake RecipeThrow away your other recipes—here’s the perfect fruit crumbleMini Quiche Appetizers | Walking on Sunshine RecipesSimple Blueberry Crisp Recipe | Kitchen Explorers | PBS Food
Quick & Easy Vanilla Cake Recipe, Wacky Cake | Jenny Can Cook (2024)

FAQs

How to make instant cake mix better? ›

6 Easy Ways To Upgrade Your Boxed Cake Mix
  1. Add an Extra Egg. If you only use one tip from this story, this one should be it. ...
  2. Add Milk, Coffee, or Soda. ...
  3. Use Butter Instead of Oil. ...
  4. Add Instant Pudding. ...
  5. Up the Flavor with an Extract or Citrus Zest. ...
  6. Top the Cake with Homemade Frosting.
Oct 19, 2023

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Why is it called wacky cake? ›

Wacky cake is considered wacky not only because the recipe lacks any dairy or eggs but also because all the ingredients for this cake are mixed directly in the pan it is baked in. This recipe goes against the most popular methods for mixing cake batters, especially since there is no bowl or whisk necessary.

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How to jazz up a vanilla cake? ›

For vanilla or yellow cake mixes, try adding diced crystallized ginger, dried fruit, or fresh berries. For chocolate or vanilla cake mixes, try adding unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted chopped nuts, or chocolate chips.

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What are the 5 ingredients in cake? ›

These basic ingredients for baking a cake are; flour, eggs, fat (usually butter), sugar, salt, a form of liquid (usually milk), and leavening agents (such as baking soda).

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What can I add to my box cake mix to make it moist? ›

Use an extra egg

Using an extra egg or two adds richness and moisture to your box cake. If you usually find your cake is dry, this could do the trick. You can also use only the yolks and save the whites for another dessert.

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Does adding milk to cake mix make it better? ›

Baking tip #2: adding milk to your box cake mix in place of water adds a dense texture to your dessert leaving it moist and flavorful like a homemade cake. Or, if you prefer, you can add buttermilk, giving your cake a tangy flavor to balance out the sweetness.

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How to make cake more moist? ›

Try switching out any water in your recipe for full-fat milk or buttermilk for a moist, decadent texture. Another ingredient that can enhance the moisture of your cake is mayonnaise. Adding a dollop of mayonnaise to your batter can help make your freshly baked cake softer with an added boost of moisture.

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What is another name for Wacky Cake? ›

Wacky cake, also called crazy cake, Joe cake, wowie cake, and WW II cake, is a spongy, cocoa-based cake. It is unique in that unlike many pastries and desserts, no eggs, butter or milk are used to make the cake batter.

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What is a goofy cake? ›

Classic, rich chocolate cake coated in thick chocolate ganache. Cream, yoghurt or ice-cream optional.

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What does adding pudding to cake mix do? ›

Put some pudding in the mix: Add a small box of pudding mix in with the cake mix. (Don't make the pudding.) The mix adds additional flavor, moistness, and a denser texture.

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How do you make a cake taste like a bakery cake? ›

Step 1: Look at the directions on the cake mix. Step 2: Add one more egg (or add 2 if you want it to be very rich). Step 3: Use melted butter instead of oil and double the amount. Step 4: Instead of water, use whole milk.

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How do you cut a cake in 5? ›

Depends on the size of the cake but the best way is to come in one inch or so and cut a circle all the way around the cake with a tall knife, the slice 2 inch pieces cleaning the knife often. This way you will have lovely slices that are 4 or 5 inches high by 1 inch deep by 2 inches wide.

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