Vanilla Bourbon Cake is a highly sought-after variety of vanilla known for its rich, smooth, and aromatic flavor.
Grown primarily in Madagascar and nearby islands, this type of vanilla is prized for its deep, creamy notes and complex taste profile, making it a favorite ingredient in many culinary applications, especially baking.
Vanilla Bourbon Cake is commonly used in recipes for cakes, cookies, ice creams, and custards, as its distinctive flavor enhances the overall taste of sweet treats.
Whether in extract or whole bean form, bourbon vanilla is a key ingredient that adds a touch of luxury and depth to any dessert.
What Does Vanilla Bourbon Taste Like?
Vanilla bourbon cake has a unique flavor profile that blends the warmth and complexity of aged bourbon with the smooth, creamy sweetness of vanilla.
The bourbon brings rich, smoky undertones, with hints of caramel, oak, and spice, while the vanilla adds a mellow sweetness and a slight floral note.
Together, they create a balanced, indulgent taste that’s both bold and comforting—perfect for adding depth to baked goods or cocktails. It’s like a perfect marriage of deep, earthy warmth and soft, aromatic sweetness.
How To Prepare Vanilla Bourbon Cake?
Recipe Overview
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40-45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Cuisine: American
Yield: 10 servings
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pan (or any similar size)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
- Toothpick (to check for doneness)
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon bourbon (preferably a smooth, middle-shelf brand)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the bourbon glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy cake removal.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and bourbon. The bourbon gives this cake a warm, subtle depth of flavor, and I promise it won’t taste overly boozy once baked.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sift these dry ingredients into the wet mixture in batches, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the batter.
4. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on it after 35 minutes.
5. Cool and Glaze
Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
While it’s cooling, prepare the bourbon glaze by whisking powdered sugar, bourbon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt (if using) in a small bowl. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for a shiny, sweet finish.
Notes:
❖ Alcohol Cooking Tip: Don’t worry about the alcohol remaining in the cake. During baking, the alcohol content evaporates, leaving behind the warm and rich flavor of the bourbon.
❖ Storage: If you have any leftovers (which I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
❖ Make Ahead: You can make the cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. The flavors will actually develop further, making the cake even more moist and flavorful!
Nutrition Facts Vanilla Bourbon Cake (Per Serving)
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg |
| Sodium | 190mg |
| Sugar | 23g |
Serving Suggestions
This Vanilla Bourbon Cake is versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas to elevate your presentation:
1. With Fresh Berries: Serve the cake with a side of fresh berries (like raspberries or strawberries) for a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.
2. Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with this cake. The creaminess balances the bourbon’s subtle warmth.
3. Coffee or Tea: For a more casual or afternoon treat, enjoy this cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The vanilla bourbon flavor is a perfect companion for your favorite warm drink.
Tips And Variations
✔ Adjust the Bourbon: If you prefer a stronger bourbon flavor, you can increase the bourbon in the cake by another tablespoon. Just be cautious with the glaze, as it could become too thin.
✔ Use Dark Brown Sugar: For a richer, slightly caramelized flavor, swap out the granulated sugar for dark brown sugar in the cake.
✔ Add Nuts: For extra texture, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter. Toasted nuts complement the vanilla and bourbon beautifully.
✔ Gluten-Free Version: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure the blend you use includes xanthan gum or another binding agent.
✔ Layer Cake: For a more impressive presentation, you can make this recipe as a layered cake. Simply double the ingredients and bake two 9-inch cakes. Layer them with whipped cream or frosting in between.
Is Bourbon Vanilla Alcoholic?
Bourbon vanilla extract does contain alcohol, as it’s typically made by soaking vanilla beans in a solution of alcohol and water.
The alcohol helps extract the flavor compounds from the beans, which results in a rich, aromatic vanilla extract.
However, most of the alcohol content evaporates during cooking or baking, leaving behind the sweet, warm flavor of bourbon-infused vanilla without a noticeable alcohol taste.
So while bourbon vanilla extract starts with alcohol, it doesn’t add an alcoholic kick to your dishes.
Is Bourbon Vanilla Good For Baking?
Yes, bourbon vanilla is excellent for baking! Bourbon vanilla refers to a variety of vanilla that comes from Madagascar and the surrounding islands, and it’s known for its rich, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor.
This makes it a popular choice for many baked goods like cakes, cookies, and custards. Its deep, aromatic profile enhances the overall flavor of desserts, giving them a more complex and authentic vanilla taste
Conclusion
This Vanilla Bourbon Cake is a showstopper for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or a simple afternoon treat.
The vanilla bourbon flavor combination is indulgent yet balanced, and the bourbon glaze adds a touch of sophistication.
With its tender crumb and rich flavor, it’s a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Try this recipe, and I promise it will become one of your go-to cakes for years to come!
More Vanilla Cakes Recipes You’ll Love
Cherry Vanilla Cake – A Deliciously Fruity
Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe – Soft & Easy
How To Make Vanilla Lavender Cake
Homemade Strawberry Filled Vanilla Cake Recipe
Vanilla Bourbon Cake
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan (or any similar size)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
- Toothpick (to check for doneness)
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon bourbon preferably a smooth, middle-shelf brand
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the bourbon glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt optional
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy cake removal.
Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and bourbon. The bourbon gives this cake a warm, subtle depth of flavor, and I promise it won’t taste overly boozy once baked.
Combine Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sift these dry ingredients into the wet mixture in batches, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the batter.
Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on it after 35 minutes.
Cool and Glaze
- Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While it’s cooling, prepare the bourbon glaze by whisking powdered sugar, bourbon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt (if using) in a small bowl. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for a shiny, sweet finish.