Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake

Name: Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole milk; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

Enjoy the delightful taste of Costco's famous vanilla cake right at home with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:02:20.637Z

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is a sweet homage to the beloved bakery classic. With a light and fluffy texture paired with rich vanilla flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously moist and fluffy texture
Rich vanilla flavor that satisfies sweet cravings
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because

      

The Perfect Cake for Any Occasion

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is ideal for a variety of occasions, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Its moist and fluffy texture makes it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that everyone will want a slice. Whether you're celebrating a special milestone or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake brings joy and satisfaction to the table.

One of the great things about this cake is its versatility. You can easily customize it with different fillings and toppings to suit your taste. Add fresh fruit, chocolate ganache, or even a layer of jam between the cake layers for an extra burst of flavor. With this base recipe, the possibilities are endless!

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even rising. Additionally, be careful not to overmix your batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to a dense cake rather than the light and fluffy texture you're aiming for.

Using high-quality vanilla extract is crucial for enhancing the flavor of your cake. Opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation to truly capture the rich taste that makes this cake so special. If you want to elevate the flavor even further, consider adding a touch of almond extract for a delightful twist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake:

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your delicious Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake:

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, frost with the prepared frosting.

Slice and enjoy your homemade Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any cake left over, storing it properly will help maintain its moisture and freshness. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place the wrapped slices in the refrigerator or freeze them for up to two months.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. For an extra treat, you can warm it slightly in the microwave before serving, which will enhance its fluffy texture and make it feel freshly baked.

Serving Suggestions

This vanilla cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. Consider serving it alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk for a classic combination. For a more festive touch, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate your dessert experience.

Don't hesitate to get creative with your presentation! Garnishing the cake with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or edible flowers not only adds visual appeal but also complements the cake's flavor profile, making it even more inviting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use almond milk or any other milk substitute, but it may slightly alter the taste.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for the eggs in this recipe.