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; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2-4 tbsp heavy cream

Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple

Indulge in the delightful taste of this Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:18:21.073Z

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is a delightful recreation of the beloved store-bought treat. With its light and fluffy texture, it's perfect for celebrations or just a sweet indulgence. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy frosting that make this cake a favorite among cake lovers!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor that reminds you of your favorite bakery cake
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Generous layers of creamy frosting for the perfect bite
Easy to make with simple ingredients at home

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is not just a dessert; it's a celebration in itself. Whether it's a birthday party, anniversary, or just a casual gathering with friends, this cake is sure to impress. Its rich vanilla flavor and stunning presentation make it a standout centerpiece for any table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be dressed up with fresh fruit or festive decorations, making it a great choice for various occasions.

What sets this cake apart is its nostalgic taste that mirrors the beloved Costco vanilla cake many of us cherish. With its light and fluffy texture, each bite feels like a delightful escape into a bakery experience that can be enjoyed at home. You won’t just be serving cake; you’ll be creating memories!

Simple Ingredients, Stunning Results

One of the best aspects of this Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is that it uses simple, everyday ingredients. You probably already have most of these staples in your kitchen, making it easy to whip up this delicious dessert whenever the craving strikes. The combination of all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and granulated sugar creates a comforting base that's both satisfying and delectable.

Moreover, the cake's frosting is just as easy to make. With a few additional ingredients like powdered sugar and heavy cream, you can achieve that creamy, dreamy frosting that elevates the cake to a whole new level. This simplicity means that even novice bakers can confidently tackle this recipe and impress their family and friends.

Tips for the Perfect Bake

To ensure your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind. First, always make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This allows for better incorporation into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, which is not what we want for this fluffy treat.

Another important tip is to allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off, ensuring a beautifully finished cake. If you're in a hurry, you can place the cake layers in the fridge for about 30 minutes to speed up the cooling process. Following these tips will help you achieve the best results every time you bake this delightful dessert.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious cake:

Cake Ingredients

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

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
2-4 tbsp heavy cream

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add vanilla extract and enough heavy cream to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Assemble the Cake

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

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve to your guests. Enjoy your homemade Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake!

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Storage Tips

Storing your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake properly is essential to keep it fresh and delicious. If you have leftovers, make sure to cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This will help prevent it from drying out and maintain its moist texture. The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, but if you want to keep it for longer, consider refrigerating it.

If you decide to refrigerate the cake, it’s best to let it come to room temperature before serving. This will enhance the flavors and improve the texture, making each slice just as delightful as the first. For extended storage, you can freeze the cake layers individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

Variations to Try

While this Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding a layer of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, between the cake layers for a refreshing twist. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or lemon, to give the cake a unique flavor profile that matches your preference.

For a chocolate lover's delight, you can incorporate cocoa powder into the batter to create a marble effect or make a chocolate frosting instead. The versatility of this cake makes it a great canvas for your creativity, allowing you to explore different flavors and combinations that will keep your baking adventures exciting.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake, presentation is key. Consider dusting the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or garnishing with fresh berries for an elegant touch. A dollop of whipped cream alongside each slice can also elevate the dessert experience, adding a delightful creaminess that complements the cake’s flavors.

Pairing this cake with a cup of coffee or tea can make for a cozy afternoon treat. Alternatively, it can be a splendid dessert after a hearty meal. Regardless of the occasion, this cake is bound to be a hit, and your guests will surely be asking for seconds!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but the ratios may need adjusting.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

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

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture as an egg replacement.