Vanilla Bean Snack Cake Squares

Name: Vanilla Bean Snack Cake Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk

Highlighted under: Home-Style Sweets

I can’t get enough of these Vanilla Bean Snack Cake Squares! They’ve become a go-to treat in our kitchen, perfect for any time of day. I love how the rich vanilla flavor harmonizes with the soft and tender crumb of the cake. It’s such a simple recipe, yet the results are absolutely delightful. Whether served at an afternoon tea or as a late-night snack, these squares never disappoint. My secret? Using fresh vanilla beans for that aromatic depth, making each bite a true indulgence.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-16T04:57:36.304Z

When I first attempted these Vanilla Bean Snack Cake Squares, I was amazed at how straightforward the method was. The key to achieving that dreamy texture lies in creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, which adds air and creates a tender crumb. I’ve experimented with different vanilla extracts, but nothing compares to the real deal.

Another tip I discovered is to let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps set the edges and makes cutting into squares much easier. You’ll appreciate the subtle bursts of vanilla in every bite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Intense vanilla flavor with real vanilla bean specks
Super moist and tender texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile treat for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert

Mastering the Cake Texture

To achieve that coveted moist and tender crumb, ensure your butter is at room temperature when creaming with sugar. This allows for optimal incorporation of air, resulting in a light batter. If you're short on time, you can cut the butter into smaller pieces to warm it faster, but it mustn't be melted. Once incorporated, the batter should be slightly thick and fluffy, almost like a cloud, which adds to the final texture of the cake.

When mixing in your dry ingredients, do so gently. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, as it develops gluten from the flour. Instead, mix until you just see dry flour and small clumps; it’s okay if the batter is not completely smooth. This approach creates a delightful contrast in texture, where the cake remains light yet rich.

Choosing and Using Vanilla

Using fresh vanilla beans makes a noticeable difference in flavor. The tiny black specks you see in the batter aren’t just for aesthetics; they bring an aromatic intensity that can't be matched by vanilla extract. To extract the seeds, slice a vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape them out with the back of a knife. If you don’t have vanilla bean paste, you can substitute it with an equal measure of high-quality vanilla extract, though the flavor will be less intense.

If you want to keep the cake vibrant and flavorful, consider using whole vanilla pods to infuse your buttermilk beforehand. Simply split and scrape the beans into the buttermilk and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour before using it in the recipe. This extra step enhances the vanilla profile significantly.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Cake Squares, gather the following ingredients:

Cake Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Vanilla Bean Snack Cake Squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla bean paste until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Serve these delicious squares plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar on top.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider serving these squares with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Storing and Serving

Once cooled, cut the cake into squares and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the squares. Just make sure to layer them between parchment paper, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. They can be enjoyed straight from the freezer or allowed to thaw at room temperature, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.

These Vanilla Bean Snack Cake Squares are versatile. They can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a fun twist, drizzle chocolate ganache over the top after cooling, or serve them with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cake doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to stale baking powder or baking soda. Always check the expiration dates and replace any old packets before starting. Additionally, try not to open the oven door while baking, as sudden temperature changes can cause the cake to collapse. Instead, rely on the recommended baking time and test with a toothpick inserted in the center to ensure it's fully cooked.

Should your cake come out too dense, this could be a result of overmixing the batter or adding too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour accurately, ideally with a kitchen scale or by spooning it into measuring cups and leveling it off with a knife. If you suspect overmixing, remember that the batter should look like a homogenous blend with some small lumps remaining for optimal fluffiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk, but the texture might be slightly different. To mimic buttermilk, add a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and let it sit for a few minutes.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store any leftover cake squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze these cake squares?

Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for the vanilla bean paste?

You can substitute it with pure vanilla extract, using about 2 teaspoons for each tablespoon of vanilla bean paste.