How To Make Vanilla Bourbon Cake Recipe

This vanilla bourbon cake recipe is a rich, moist dessert crafted to highlight the warmth of bourbon alongside the sweetness of brown sugar and the subtle depth of molasses.

Creating this vanilla bourbon cake recipe allows the exploration of flavors that bring comfort and a touch of elegance to gatherings. The recipe was developed for friends, family, and anyone who enjoys a thoughtfully made dessert.

Inspired by traditional American southern baking, the cake blends classic ingredients like sour cream, vanilla, and bourbon to create a tender texture and aromatic profile.

The following steps guide the preparation, serving ideas, tips, variations, preservation methods, and health insights for this indulgent treat.

About This Vanilla Bourbon Cake Recipe

Vanilla bourbon cake recipe offers a rich, moist texture with deep, buttery sweetness enhanced by light brown sugar and a hint of sorghum molasses.

Eggs provide structure and lift, while sour cream adds creaminess and tenderness. The bourbon infuses warm, subtle notes that balance the sweetness, and vanilla bean paste highlights the cake’s aromatic flavor.

The frosting mirrors these flavors, blending confectioners’ sugar, butter, bourbon, milk, and vanilla for a creamy, smooth topping.

Every ingredient works together to create a layered dessert with soft crumb, warm undertones, and indulgent richness that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

How To Prepare Vanilla Bourbon Cake?

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 servings

Kitchen Utensils

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium bowl
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans (2)
• Cooling rack
• Whisk
• Offset spatula

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks / 8 oz) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (405 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (80 g) sorghum molasses
• 6 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 oz sour cream
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) bourbon whiskey (e.g., Maker’s Mark)

For the Bourbon Frosting:

• 2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon bourbon
• 1 tablespoon whole milk
• 1 teaspoon real vanilla extract

How To Make Vanilla Bourbon Cake Recipe

1. Get the oven and pans ready

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inches round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper so the cakes come out easily.

2. Mix the butter and sugars

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter together with the light brown sugar and sorghum molasses. Keep mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes 3–4 minutes.

3. Add the eggs and vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Then stir in the vanilla bean paste or extract until everything is well combined.

4. Combine the dry ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Slowly add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over mix.

5. Incorporate sour cream and bourbon

Gently fold in the sour cream and bourbon whiskey until the batter is smooth and uniform.

6. Bake the cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Make the bourbon frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add sifted confectioners’ sugar, and then mix in the bourbon, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is creamy and easy to spread.

8. Assemble the cake

Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Put the second cake layer on top and cover the whole cake with the remaining frosting.

Nutrition Facts Of Vanilla Bourbon Cake Recipe

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Carbohydrates	55 g
Fat	22 g
Protein	4 g
Sugar	35 g

Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?

This vanilla bourbon cake recipe is a must-try because it delivers a rich, indulgent experience that balances sweetness and warmth in every bite.

The brown sugar and sorghum molasses create a deep caramel flavor, while bourbon adds gentle, aromatic warmth that elevates the cake beyond ordinary desserts.

The tender, moist crumb from sour cream makes the cake soft and comforting, and the bourbon frosting ties all the flavors together for a creamy, flavorful finish.

This vanilla bourbon cake recipe stands out as a dessert that is both classic and distinct, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vanilla bourbon cake recipe captivates with its moist, tender crumb and rich, buttery flavor. Warm notes of bourbon blend seamlessly with brown sugar and molasses, creating depth and complexity in every bite.

The frosting adds creamy sweetness and a hint of vanilla that complements the cake perfectly. The recipe is approachable yet impressive, offering a dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy.

The layers of flavor, subtle warmth, and smooth texture make this vanilla bourbon cake recipe memorable, inviting, and enjoyable for both bakers and those who savor it.

Serving Ideas

Vanilla bourbon cake recipe can be served in several delightful ways. A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance for a casual presentation. Top slices with fresh berries or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to balance richness with brightness.

Pairing with coffee, tea, or a dessert wine enhances the warm, sweet flavors. For added indulgence, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream.

Small drizzle of extra bourbon or caramel sauce over each slice elevates the experience, creating a layered dessert that combines flavor, texture, and aroma in every serving.

Expert Baking Tips

1. Measure ingredients carefully to ensure the cake rise properly and maintain a tender texture. Slight differences can affect sweetness, moisture, and structure.

2. Bring butter, eggs, and dairy to room temperature for smooth, even mixing and a soft, moist crumb.

3. Mix ingredients gently to avoid a dense or tough cake. Stop once everything is incorporated.

4. Maintain accurate oven temperature. Preheating and monitoring ensures even baking and prevents undercooked or dry layers.

5. Prepare pans thoroughly by greasing and lining them for clean removal and even cooking.

6. Allow cake to cool fully before frosting to keep layers firm and prevent sliding.

How To Make With More Delicious

➤ Add Toasted Nuts: Fold in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the batter for crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.

➤ Drizzle with Caramel or Chocolate: Pour a thin layer of caramel sauce or melted chocolate over the frosted cake to enhance sweetness and richness.

➤ Infuse More Bourbon: Brush a little extra bourbon over the cake layers before frosting to intensify the warm, aromatic flavor.

➤ Mix in Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the batter for a cozy, spiced note.

➤ Layer with Fruit:  Incorporate fresh or caramelized fruits such as sliced pears, apples, or berries between layers to add brightness and texture.

Variations

✔ Chocolate Bourbon Cake – Replace part of the flour with cocoa powder and add chocolate chips to the batter for a rich chocolate flavor.

✔ Maple Bourbon Cake – Swap the molasses for pure maple syrup to create a lighter, maple-infused version.

✔ Citrus Bourbon Cake – Add finely grated orange or lemon zest to the batter and a splash of citrus juice to the frosting for a bright, refreshing twist.

✔ Spiced Bourbon Cake – Incorporate ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into the batter for a warm, spiced dessert.

✔ Nutty Bourbon Cake – Mix in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts in the batter and sprinkle some on top of the frosting for texture and extra flavor.

How Do I Store This Cake?

This vanilla bourbon cake recipe keeps best in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, which helps maintain its moist, tender texture.

For longer storage, refrigerate for up to five days, making sure the vanilla bourbon cake recipe is covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors.

To freeze, wrap the cooled, unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; they will stay fresh for up to three months.

Thaw completely at room temperature before frosting or serving to preserve the vanilla bourbon cake recipe soft crumb and rich flavor.

FAQs For The Vanilla Bourbon Cake

Conclusion

This delicious vanilla bourbon cake recipe is a recipe that everyone enjoys and appreciates. I make this vanilla bourbon cake recipe for serving special occasions, and each time I bake it, the results are delightful and satisfying.

Sharing my easy method allows others to create this flavorful, moist, and aromatic cake without difficulty. The balance of bourbon, vanilla, and molasses gives a rich taste that is both comforting and indulgent.

I hope this vanilla bourbon cake recipe inspires you to try it, enjoy the baking process, and savor every slice with joy.

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