homemade vanilla cake dry mix

Why Homemade?

I used to think boxed cake mixes were just easier. but then I started paying attention to the ingredients... and the price. this homemade vanilla cake mix takes only five minutes to prep, uses pantry staples, and bakes up into the softest, fluffiest cake with rich vanilla flavor.

I keep this mix on hand for birthdays, baby showers, or just because cake sounds good after dinner. once you try it, you’ll never go back to the boxed stuff.

Ingredients

dry mix (yields 6 cups, or 2 cakes)

• 4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

• 3 cups sugar

• 3 tbsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

Mix everything in a bowl and then use a canning funnel to transfer to your storage container. Label how you’d like, I use this label maker!

✅ store airtight – I use a ½-gallon mason jar with a vacuum-sealed lid

⏳ shelf life: 3–4 months sealed, 6–8 months vacuum sealed

To Make

for one 9x13 cake or 24 cupcakes:

• 3 cups dry mix

• 4 eggs

• ¾ cup oil or melted butter

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup milk

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, vanilla, and milk. Add in 3 cups of dry mix and stir just until smooth. Don't overmix!

Pour into a greased 9x13 pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

For cupcakes: bake 18–22 minutes at 350°F.

Tips + Add-In Ideas

• Add lemon zest and swap vanilla for almond extract

• Mix in mini chocolate chips or sprinkles for a funfetti version

• This also works great as a layer cake or for cupcakes or cobblers!

More Pantry Staple Mixes to Try:

👉 Pancake Mix

👉 Muffin Mix

👉 Vanilla Cake Mix

👉 Oatmeal Cookies

👉 Any-Chip Cookies

Follow along as I continue building my pantry with simple, homemade mixes that save money, reduce processed ingredients, and make life easier for busy moms like me.

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