Experience the magic of a cake so soft it melts in your mouth! The Fluffy Vanilla Cloud Cake is a tender, airy dessert with delicate vanilla flavor, enhanced by a touch of sour cream and whole milk for ultimate moistness. Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or a simple afternoon treat, this cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream and fresh berries. Its light crumb and elegant presentation make it a show-stopper without being complicated.

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Ingredients

Cake

2½ cups cake flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk, room temperature
½ cup sour cream

Optional Toppings

Whipped cream
Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)

Instructions

1. Prep the Oven and Pans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Line bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for 4–5 minutes until pale and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually mix in dry ingredients in three portions, alternating with milk in two portions. Start and end with flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

6. Fold in Sour Cream

Using a spatula, gently fold in sour cream by hand. Avoid overmixing to preserve air and fluffiness.

7. Divide and Smooth Batter

Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Smooth tops with a spatula for even baking.

8. Bake

Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cakes should spring back gently when touched.

9. Cool

Let cakes rest in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Serve

Frost with whipped cream and top with fresh berries, if desired. Slice and enjoy the cloud-like texture!

Tips for the Perfect Cloud Cake

Use Cake Flour: Lower protein content ensures a lighter, softer crumb.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs, milk, and butter mix more evenly for better rise.
Gentle Folding: Keeps air trapped for maximum fluffiness.
Even Baking: Smooth batter for consistent layers.
Whipped Cream & Berries: Add a delicate, visually stunning finishing touch.

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Serving Suggestions

Classic: Whipped cream and mixed berries on top.
Citrus Twist: Sprinkle finely grated lemon zest over whipped cream.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate for an elegant touch.
Berry Compote: Warm berries with cinnamon and vanilla for a cozy topping.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store frosted cakes in airtight container for up to 3 days.
Room Temperature: Unfrosted cake stays fresh 1–2 days in a cake dome.
Freezer: Wrap layers in plastic wrap and foil, freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before frosting.
Moisture Control: Place a slice of bread or damp paper towel in the container to keep cake tender.

FAQs

Can I substitute sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt works well to maintain moisture and light tanginess.

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Why use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Cake flour has lower protein, producing a softer, more delicate crumb. All-purpose flour can make the cake denser.

Should ingredients be room temperature?
Yes, it ensures smooth batter and even baking.

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How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Cakes should spring back gently when touched.

What are other serving ideas?
Frost with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or drizzle with chocolate ganache.

Nutrition Estimate (per slice, without toppings)

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 5g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Sugar: 34g
Fiber: 1g