Pink Vanilla Cake Squares: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion
These Pink vanilla cake squares are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy texture and delicate vanilla flavor with a playful pink twist. Ideal for birthdays, baby showers, or afternoon tea parties, this easy dessert recipe will quickly become your go-to for sweet cravings.
Why You’ll Love These Pink Vanilla Cake Squares
This simple yet impressive dessert offers several advantages:
- Moist and tender crumb from the perfect vanilla cake base
- Eye-catching pink color that’s completely customizable
- Easy to make with basic pantry ingredients
- Perfect for portion control with pre-cut squares
Ingredients for Pink Vanilla Cake Squares
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- Pink food coloring (gel recommended)
How to Make Perfect Pink Vanilla Cake Squares
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in medium bowl
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy
- Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, mixing well
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing until just combined
- Add pink food coloring until desired shade is reached
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 30-35 minutes
- Cool completely before cutting into squares
Tips for the Best Vanilla Cake Squares
For perfect results every time:
- Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing
- Don’t overmix the batter to maintain tender texture
- Start with a small amount of gel food coloring and add gradually
- Let cake cool completely before slicing for clean edges
Serving Suggestions for Pink Cake Squares
These versatile treats can be enjoyed in many ways:
- Dust with powdered sugar for simple elegance
- Top with fresh berries and whipped cream
- Drizzle with white chocolate ganache
- Serve alongside tea or coffee
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Keep your pink vanilla cake squares fresh:
- Store in airtight container at room temperature for 3 days
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week
- Freeze unfrosted squares for up to 3 months
- Bake 1 day ahead for parties – flavors improve
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these pink vanilla squares without food coloring?
Absolutely! The cake will taste just as delicious without the pink hue. For natural coloring, try adding 1-2 tbsp beetroot powder.
What’s the best way to get clean cuts when slicing?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts. For perfect squares, chill the cake briefly before slicing.
Can I turn this into a layer cake instead of squares?
Yes! Divide the batter between two 8-inch round pans and adjust baking time to 25-30 minutes.
These pink vanilla cake squares offer a delightful twist on classic vanilla cake that’s sure to impress. With their soft texture, beautiful color, and irresistible flavor, they’re perfect for any celebration or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day.
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Pink Vanilla Cake Squares
Description
A delightful and visually appealing pink vanilla cake cut into perfect squares. This moist and fluffy cake is infused with vanilla and tinted pink for a charming dessert that’s perfect for parties, tea time, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1–2 drops pink food coloring
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 drops pink food coloring
- For Decoration:
- Sprinkles (optional)
- Edible glitter (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Add pink food coloring and mix until the batter reaches your desired shade of pink.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting: Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth. Add pink food coloring and mix well.
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter if desired.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
For a deeper pink color, add more food coloring. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
