Classic White Cake Recipe
There is something wonderfully nostalgic and endlessly versatile about the Classic White Cake Recipe. This cake is a timeless crowd-pleaser that delivers a tender crumb, delicate sweetness, and the perfect canvas for any frosting or decoration you dream up. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting homemade treat, this cake’s soft texture and gentle vanilla flavor will never disappoint. It’s the ultimate recipe to have on hand when you want pure, simple deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every component plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and moisture that defines the Classic White Cake Recipe.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake providing structure while keeping it tender when properly measured.
- Baking powder: Essential for the cake’s rise and fluffy lightness.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all the other flavors and balances sweetness.
- Butter (softened): Adds richness and a velvety texture that sugar alone can’t achieve.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens perfectly and helps create that fine crumb.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and add moisture to the batter.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with that classic, aromatic flavor we all adore.
- Milk: Adds moisture and keeps the crumb soft without weighing the cake down.
How to Make Classic White Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring two 9-inch cake pans ensures your cake layers come out effortlessly when baked. This preparation is key to maintaining the cake’s perfect shape and texture.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Sifting aerates the flour for a lighter cake and ensures all the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which means a consistently tender crumb throughout.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream your softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step incorporates air, which helps the cake rise beautifully and adds a delicate texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
One at a time, beat in the eggs, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This gradual addition complements the structure and moisture of the cake. Stir in the vanilla extract for that unmistakable, warm flavor that makes this cake a classic.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your butter mixture, alternating with the milk—beginning and ending with the dry mix. This alternating method keeps the batter smooth and prevents it from becoming too dense.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it and use a toothpick test to check doneness—when it comes out clean, your cake is perfectly baked.
Step 7: Cool Before Frosting
Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before transferring to a wire rack or frosting. Proper cooling is crucial to prevent your frosting from melting and sliding off.
How to Serve Classic White Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The simplicity of the Classic White Cake Recipe means it shines with a variety of garnishes. Think fresh berries or delicate edible flowers perched on top for a charming touch. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of homemade glaze can add a subtle but elegant finish.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments like whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a fresh fruit compote to balance the sweetness. For tea or coffee time, a tangy lemon curd side complements the cake’s richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer it with colorful frosting for a stunning visual effect or add a surprise filling like raspberry jam or chocolate ganache between layers. For parties, consider decorating with themed sprinkles or piped flowers to make this classic cake truly unforgettable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain its moist texture without drying out.
Freezing
The Classic White Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual layers tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. This method preserves freshness for up to two months, making it easy to bake ahead.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your cake again, thaw frozen layers overnight at room temperature. If you want a freshly-baked feel, warm slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds before serving to bring out that just-made softness.
FAQs
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Cake flour will make the cake even lighter and more tender due to its lower protein content. Just be sure to measure it correctly for best results.
Why do I need to alternate dry ingredients and milk?
Alternating additions help prevent overmixing and maintain the batter’s delicate texture. It also ensures even distribution of moisture without making the batter too dense.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use almond milk or another plant-based milk. The cake may have a slightly different flavor and texture but will still be delicious.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The best test is to insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, the cake is done and ready to cool.
Can I double this recipe for a larger cake?
Yes, doubling is straightforward. Just be sure to use larger pans or bake in batches, and adjust baking time accordingly, checking for doneness frequently.
Final Thoughts
The Classic White Cake Recipe is a true kitchen treasure that never fails to impress. Its straightforward ingredients and foolproof process make it perfect for bakers of all levels, and its tender crumb means it pairs beautifully with endless flavors and frostings. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you might just find your new favorite go-to cake for every joyful occasion.
Print
Classic White Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Classic White Cake Recipe delivers a tender, moist vanilla-flavored cake perfect for celebrations or everyday desserts. Featuring a simple combination of all-purpose flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, this cake provides a light and fluffy texture with a delicate crumb. Ideal for layering and frosting, it’s a timeless favorite that pairs beautifully with buttercream or fresh fruit toppings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch cake pans by greasing and flouring them to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light in color and fluffy in texture, incorporating air for a tender cake.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Fill Pans and Bake: Evenly divide the cake batter between the two prepared pans. Place them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Before Frosting: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool fully before applying your favorite frosting.
Notes
- Room temperature ingredients help the batter blend smoothly and evenly.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.
- You can substitute milk with buttermilk for a richer flavor and tender crumb.
- The cake layers can be wrapped and refrigerated or frozen if not frosting immediately.
- Use parchment paper in the pans for easier removal if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
