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 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Indulgent Dessert Recipes

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake, perfect for any celebration or sweet craving.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:38:20.472Z

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is inspired by the beloved bakery treat that many adore. With its moist texture and rich vanilla flavor, it's the perfect dessert for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence at home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy vanilla cake with a creamy frosting
Perfectly sweetened, making it great for all palates
Easier to make than you think, with simple ingredients

      

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the light and fluffy texture that makes this Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake so special, it's crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon and level method for flour to avoid packing it into the measuring cup, which can lead to a dense cake. Additionally, be sure to bring your eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing. This step ensures that they incorporate smoothly into the batter, resulting in a tender crumb.

When baking, every oven is a little different. To ensure your cake bakes evenly, it’s wise to rotate the pans halfway through the baking time. This simple trick helps avoid any hot spots in the oven that could cause uneven baking, so your cake layers rise beautifully and bake to perfection. Investing in an oven thermometer can also help you monitor the accurate temperature inside your oven.

Frosting Techniques

Creating the perfect frosting is key to making your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake shine. When preparing the frosting, start with softened butter to ensure it blends well with the powdered sugar. Be patient during this step, as beating the butter for a few minutes until creamy will make a significant difference in the final texture of your frosting. Aim for a light and fluffy consistency that is easy to spread.

If you like a bit of flair on your cake, consider adding food coloring to your frosting. This allows you to customize the appearance of your cake for special occasions, such as birthdays or holidays. A smooth layer of frosting on the sides and top will not only look appealing but also enhances the overall flavor of the cake. Don’t hesitate to get creative with sprinkles or edible decorations for an extra touch!

Serving Suggestions

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. For a classic presentation, serve slices with a side of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream is a delightful treat that everyone will love. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel for an extra layer of sweetness.

Consider pairing your cake with a variety of beverages for a complete dessert experience. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk complements the flavors beautifully. For a more festive occasion, serve it with a sparkling drink or a light dessert wine. This cake is not only a centerpiece for celebrations but also a comforting dessert for any day of the week!

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for 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 bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until well combined and smooth.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 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 large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

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

Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.

Storage Tips

To keep your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can stay fresh for about a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you have leftover cake, you can also freeze it. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice of homemade cake anytime you have a craving. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of baking your own cake is the ability to customize it to your taste. Consider adding different flavor extracts to the cake batter, like almond or lemon, for a fun twist. You can also fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit puree for added flavor and texture. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you add extra ingredients.

For an added element of surprise, try layering the cake with different fillings such as fruit preserves or whipped cream between the layers. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds visual appeal. Experimenting with flavors and fillings can turn a simple vanilla cake into a unique creation that reflects your personal style.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, cake flour will give the cake a lighter texture.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the layers individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream in the frosting?

You can use milk or a non-dairy milk alternative, but the frosting may be less creamy.