Vanilnyy Keks Vanilla Cake

Russian Christmas celebrations are filled with joy, colorful decorations, and heartwarming traditional treats. One such delight is the mouthwatering Vanilnyy Keks, a delicious vanilla cake that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps to create your own Vanilnyy Keks at home, filling your kitchen with the cozy aroma of vanilla and festive cheer.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of sugar
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 3 eggs
– 1 cup of milk
– 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a round cake pan with butter or use parchment paper to line the bottom for easy removal.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is essential for a soft and moist cake.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Incorporating the eggs gradually will help achieve a uniform texture.

4. Stir in the vanilla extract, bringing a warm and fragrant flavor to the cake. The aroma of vanilla will fill your kitchen and set the perfect festive mood.

5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a lump-free and airy batter, giving your Vanilnyy Keks a tender crumb.

6. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a light and fluffy cake.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface. The batter will be thick and luxurious, promising a beautifully textured cake when baked.

8. Bake the Vanilnyy Keks in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The golden hue and irresistible aroma will signal that your cake is ready to be enjoyed.

9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period ensures that the flavors meld together and the texture sets perfectly.

10. Serve your Vanilnyy Keks cake as is for a simple yet elegant treat, or dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect, reminiscent of a Russian winter wonderland. Pair it with a cup of hot tea or mulled wine for a cozy holiday experience.

Enjoy the warmth and sweetness of the holiday season with your homemade Vanilnyy Keks Vanilla Cake. This simple yet delightful recipe captures the essence of Russian Christmas traditions, making it a perfect addition to your festive table. Share this treat with your loved ones and create cherished memories together. Happy baking!