Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake
Every time I bake an Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake, it feels like a mini celebration in my kitchen. This cake has a wonderful way of bringing back memories of family gatherings and cozy afternoons spent chatting over coffee. I remember the first time I made it; the sweet aroma filled the house and drew everyone in from outside. This cake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a timeless piece of my family’s tradition that I love sharing with friends and loved ones. Whether it’s a casual weekend treat or a festive dessert for a special occasion, this bundt cake always hits the spot! The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates it to a whole new level, making it an irresistible choice when you want something sweet and satisfying.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 10 mins
25 mins
45 mins
Medium
320 kcal
4 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
15 g
Bundt pan, KitchenAid stand mixer
When it comes to baking, the Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake truly stands out for several reasons. Firstly, its simplicity is perfect for both novice bakers and those with more experience. The ingredients come together effortlessly, and the result is a beautifully moist cake that’s visually impressive due to its iconic bundt shape. Secondly, the flavor is pure vanilla bliss, which pairs wonderfully with the rich cream cheese frosting. This cake is versatile, making it a great base for any toppings or additions you might fancy, whether it’s fresh fruit or a sprinkle of nuts. Whether enjoyed plain or adorned with frosting, it never fails to delight. Finally, the joy of sharing this delicious cake with others is what makes it truly special, creating bonds over shared moments of sweetness. It’s not just about eating; it’s about the connections we build around food.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake
1. Simple Yet Elegant
The Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake is incredibly simple to make, yet it looks elegant enough to impress anyone. The beautiful shape of the bundt pan creates a stunning visual without requiring complex baking techniques.
2. Rich Flavor
With its rich vanilla flavor, this cake is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of a boxed cake mix and instant pudding ensures a moist and flavorful cake, which is always a hit at gatherings.
3. Versatile Toppings
The cake serves as a perfect canvas for various toppings, from the decadent cream cheese frosting to fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar, allowing for endless customization.
4. All-Year Favorite
Regardless of the season, this cake is a beloved favorite. Whether during the holidays, summer barbecues, or cozy winter nights, it fits into any occasion perfectly.
5. Quick to Prepare
With minimal prep time, this recipe can be whipped up quickly, making it a perfect choice for last-minute gatherings or when you crave something sweet without hours in the kitchen.
Main Ingredients for Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake

The beauty of this Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake lies in its simple yet effective ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that delightful flavor and texture. The key players include the cake mix, which forms the base, and the instant pudding mix, adding moisture and richness. Together with eggs, milk, and oil, they create a soft, delicious cake. The cream cheese frosting complements this perfectly, adding a creamy, tangy finish that makes every bite irresistible.
- 1 box white cake mix (15.25 ounces) – The foundation of this cake is a box of white cake mix, which simplifies the process while still delivering fluffy results.
- 1 box instant cheesecake pudding mix (3.4 ounces) – This adds extra moisture and a creamy texture to the cake, making it richer and more decadent.
- ¾ cup 2% or whole milk – Milk is essential for the right consistency and moisture in the batter.
- ¾ cup vegetable oil – This helps keep the cake moist and tender, enhancing its overall flavor.
- 4 large eggs (slightly beaten) – Eggs provide structure and stability, ensuring the cake holds its shape while adding richness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla paste – A must-have for that classic vanilla flavor that everyone loves.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract – This adds a subtle nuttiness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature) – The star ingredient for the frosting, making it creamy and decadent.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature) – Adds flavor and creaminess to the frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted) – This sweetens the frosting and gives it that smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste – Additional vanilla to enhance the flavor in the frosting.
How to Prepare Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake

Preparing the Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these steps for a perfect cake that will impress your friends and family.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This setting is crucial as it ensures the cake bakes evenly. While the oven is heating up, grab your 12-cup bundt pan and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This will help guarantee that the cake releases beautifully from the pan once baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix and the instant cheesecake pudding mix. This combination is key to achieving a moist and flavorful cake. Add in the milk, vegetable oil, and slightly beaten eggs. With a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about two minutes. You’re looking for a smooth, well-combined batter.
- Once the batter is ready, pour it into the prepared bundt pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, making sure it’s even. This helps with even baking and a beautiful finish.
- Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready! The cake should be slightly golden on top.
- After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 45 minutes. This cooling time is essential to ensure it sets properly and can be inverted without breaking.
- Once it has cooled, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack or serving plate. It should slide out smoothly, thanks to the nonstick spray. Allow it to cool completely before applying the frosting.
- Now, let’s make the cream cheese frosting! In a clean mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and unsalted butter. Beat them together until well combined, which should take about five minutes. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything.
- With the mixer on low, gradually add the powdered sugar. This step is crucial as it prevents the sugar from flying everywhere. Mix until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla paste to the frosting mixture and mix on medium speed for an additional five minutes. The frosting should be light and fluffy.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bundt cake generously. If you like, add sprinkles on top for a festive touch. The finished cake will resemble a giant donut, making it a fun treat for everyone!
Things Worth Knowing
- Always let the cake cool: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan prevents breakage and ensures a clean release.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like cream cheese and butter should be at room temperature for the frosting to blend smoothly.
- Adjust baking time for altitude: If you live at a high altitude, you may need to adjust the baking time or temperature for best results.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite flavors to the batter or frosting to make it uniquely yours.
Tips for Success

For the best results, here are some tips to keep in mind when making your Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake. Following these will ensure a delightful baking experience!
- Storage: To store any leftover cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
- Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. Consider serving it at brunch or as a midday treat.
- Customization: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the batter for added flavor and texture.
- Decorating: Top the cake with fresh fruit or berries for a pop of color and freshness.
What Complements This Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake
Serving the Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake can be as delightful as making it. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy this delicious treat:
- Serve it with coffee: This cake is perfect alongside a hot cup of coffee, making it a wonderful choice for breakfast or brunch.
- Pair with ice cream: For dessert, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delicious contrast.
- Top with fresh fruit: Adding sliced strawberries or raspberries on top can enhance the flavor while adding a refreshing touch.
- Perfect for parties: This cake is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a great centerpiece for birthday celebrations and gatherings.
- Use as a base: This cake can be used as a base for various desserts, like layered cakes or trifle.
- Seasonal touches: Add seasonal decorations, like edible flowers in spring or warm spices in the fall, to make it festive.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt addition to any gathering. Its rich flavor and beautiful presentation make it a true crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share the joy it brings with your friends and family. Baking this delightful cake is not only rewarding, but it also creates lasting memories around the table. Enjoy every slice and the smiles that come with it!

Easy Vanilla Bundt Cake
Equipment
- Bundt Pan
- KitchenAid stand mixer
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix 15.25 ounces
- 1 box instant cheesecake pudding mix 3.4 ounces
- ¾ cup 2% or whole milk
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs slightly beaten
- 2 teaspoons vanilla paste
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 12-cup bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix and the instant cheesecake pudding mix. Add in the milk, vegetable oil, and slightly beaten eggs. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about two minutes until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Place the bundt pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 45 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and unsalted butter. Beat until well combined.
- Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth. Add vanilla paste and mix again.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bundt cake. Top with sprinkles if desired.
Notes
- Tip 1: To store any leftover cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Tip 2: You can freeze the cake for up to three months.
- Tip 3: This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
- Tip 4: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter.
- Tip 5: Top the cake with fresh fruit for a refreshing touch.


