Vanilla Crunch Cake – Sweet And Crunchy

If you’re looking for a cake that combines rich, buttery flavors with a delightful crunch, then this Vanilla Crunch Cake is just what you need!

This recipe offers the classic taste of vanilla with a fun and unexpected twist — a crisp, crunchy topping that adds both texture and flavor to each bite.

It’s a cake that’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to afternoon teas, or just as a sweet treat for yourself.

I’ve made this cake multiple times, and it always gets rave reviews. The crunchiness balances out the soft, airy cake, making each bite a delightful experience.

Below, I’ll walk you through the full recipe, tips, and everything you need to know to make this dessert at home.

Why You Will Choose Vanilla Crunch Cake?

You’ll choose Vanilla Crunch Cake because it’s the perfect combination of soft, moist cake and a sweet, crispy topping that adds texture and flavor in every bite.

The vanilla flavor is rich and comforting, while the crunchy cornflake topping offers a fun twist that makes this cake stand out.

It’s simple to make, yet looks impressive, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations. The glaze adds just the right finishing touch of sweetness, making this cake a true crowd-pleaser.

How To Prepare Vanilla Crunch Cake?

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Yield: 10 servings

Course: Dessert, Cake

Calories: 300 kcal

Cuisine: American

Equipment Needed:

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk (whole milk preferred)

For the Crunch Topping:

• 1 cup cornflakes (lightly crushed)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar (lightly packed)
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Cake Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures that the cake won’t stick and will come out perfectly once baked.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two batches, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

6. Prepare the Crunch Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed cornflakes, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the cornflakes are evenly coated.

7. Assemble the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Spread the crunch topping evenly over the top of the batter. This will form a beautiful, crisp topping as the cake bakes.

8. Bake the Cake

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and crunchy.

9. Make the Vanilla Glaze

While the cake is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to make the glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

10. Cool and Glaze the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. Once it’s fully cooled, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the cake in a decorative pattern.

Note:

When making this Vanilla Crunch Cake, ensure you don’t overbake the cake. It’s important to take it out when the toothpick comes out clean — overbaking could cause the crunch topping to burn or the cake to dry out. Always check the cake with a toothpick before deciding to remove it from the oven.

Serving Suggestions

A slice of this Vanilla Crunch Cake goes wonderfully with a handful of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

For extra indulgence, top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The airy cream complements the crunchy topping and the soft cake texture.

This cake makes an excellent addition to any tea party or afternoon gathering. Its light and sweet flavor pairs perfectly with a cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea.

Expert Tips

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.

2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature to help the ingredients blend smoothly for a better rise.

3. Crunch Topping Tip: For an extra crunch, slightly toast the cornflakes before adding them to the cake for a more robust texture.

4. Check for Doneness: Always test the cake with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s ready. Overbaking can dry out the cake.

5. Let the Cake Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting into the cake and losing its glossy finish.

How To Store

To store Vanilla Crunch Cake, keep it covered at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the oven. Add the glaze just before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

The Vanilla Crunch Cake is a wonderful dessert that beautifully balances a soft, moist interior with a satisfying crunchy topping.

It’s a cake that works for just about any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make.

This cake also makes for a great make-ahead option. You can bake and freeze it, and the crunchy topping can be added when you’re ready to serve.

All in all, the Vanilla Crunch Cake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth—give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite!

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