Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake

Name: Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2-4 tbsp heavy cream

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

Indulge in the rich, fluffy goodness of this copycat Costco vanilla cake recipe, perfect for any celebration or sweet craving.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:46:20.794Z

This Copycat Costco Vanilla Cake is a delightful treat that brings the iconic flavors of the warehouse bakery right into your kitchen. With its moist texture and creamy frosting, it's no wonder this cake is a favorite at parties and gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously moist and fluffy vanilla cake
Rich buttercream frosting that complements the cake perfectly
Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or any sweet occasion

      

A Sweet Twist on a Classic

If you've ever tasted the iconic vanilla cake from Costco, you know how irresistible it can be. This copycat recipe captures all the delightful elements of that beloved cake, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or celebration. The fluffy texture and rich flavor come together to create a dessert that everyone will love. Whether it’s a birthday or just a sweet craving, this cake will surely impress your family and friends.

What sets this vanilla cake apart is its balance of sweetness and flavor. The combination of high-quality ingredients, like real butter and vanilla extract, ensures that each bite is a delightful experience. Plus, the moist crumb and generous frosting make it a standout dessert that rivals store-bought options. With this recipe, you can enjoy a slice of nostalgia right from your own kitchen.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Versatility is key when it comes to desserts, and this vanilla cake is no exception. It can be dressed up or down to suit any celebration, from casual family dinners to elegant birthday parties. You can keep it simple with just the classic frosting, or add fresh fruits, sprinkles, or even themed decorations for special events. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for various occasions throughout the year.

Imagine serving this cake at your next gathering—guests will be delighted by its moistness and flavor. It also holds up beautifully, making it ideal for transportation if you need to bring a dessert to a potluck or picnic. With its charming appearance and delicious taste, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Tips for the Perfect Bake

To achieve the best results, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure precision, especially when it comes to flour and sugar. Additionally, it's vital to let your butter soften at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar, which is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture in your cake.

Another pro tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, which we definitely want to avoid. Mix until just combined, and you'll be rewarded with a beautifully airy cake that's perfect for frosting and decorating.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2-4 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and alternate adding the dry ingredients with milk until combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add vanilla and enough heavy cream to achieve a spreadable consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream frosting.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve to enjoy this delicious copycat Costco vanilla cake!

Storing Your Cake

Once your cake is baked and frosted, proper storage is essential for maintaining its freshness. If you have leftovers, cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help keep the cake moist and flavorful for several days. You can store it at room temperature if it’s not too hot, or refrigerate it if you prefer a chilled dessert.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and it will taste as fresh as the day you made it.

Customization Ideas

While this recipe is a classic, feel free to get creative with flavors. You can add lemon zest for a citrusy twist or mix in chocolate chips for a rich contrast. If you want to take it a step further, consider layering the cake with fruit preserves or whipped cream between the layers for added flavor and texture.

For those who love a little extra indulgence, try adding a drizzle of chocolate ganache on top of the frosted cake. It not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will appreciate. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature until you are ready to frost and serve.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a commercial egg replacer to make this cake egg-free.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you've added perishable fillings or frosting, refrigerate it.