New Favorite White Layer Cake Recipe

Looking for a timeless, classic cake recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? This white layer cake is a must-try for celebrations, holidays, or even just a weekend indulgence. It’s moist, fluffy, and versatile, making it a great base for creative decorating and flavor variations. Stick around as we dive into this amazing recipe, provide step-by-step instructions, and share helpful tips on how to make the most of this delightful cake. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a newbie, this guide will make baking a white layer cake easier than ever!

What is a White Layer Cake?

A white layer cake is a classic dessert that features multiple layers of light, fluffy, vanilla-flavored cake, typically frosted with a complementary buttercream or cream cheese frosting. Its beautiful, pale color comes from using egg whites only, which keeps the cake delicate and maintains its signature white appearance. It’s one of the most popular cakes for weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations due to its elegant look and versatility.

Now, let’s look at everything you’ll need to bake your own perfect white layer cake!

Ingredients List for White Layer Cake

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients for the cake layers:

For the Cake:

• 2 ¾ cups cake flour (for a lighter, fluffier texture)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (for leavening)
• ½ teaspoon salt (to enhance the flavors)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for richness)
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar (for sweetness)
• 4 large egg whites (for a light, airy texture)
• 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract (for flavor)
• 1 cup whole milk (for moisture)
• ½ cup sour cream (adds moisture and a slight tang)

For the Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened (for creaminess)
• 5 cups powdered sugar (for sweetness)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (for flavor)
• 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream (for smoothness)
• Pinch of salt (balances the sweetness)

These basic ingredients will yield a delicious, fluffy white layer cake with a rich and creamy frosting to match.

Substitutions and Variations

If you don’t have some of these ingredients on hand, or you want to experiment with different flavors, here are some great substitutions and variations:

• Flour: If you don't have cake flour, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but make sure to remove 2 tablespoons per cup to avoid a denser texture.
• Milk: You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, soy milk, or even buttermilk for a slightly tangier flavor.
• Sour Cream: If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute. Both add a nice moisture to the cake.
• Butter: If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can use vegan butter in both the cake and frosting.
• Flavor Variations: Add almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor, or mix in a little lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
• Frosting: If you want a tangy finish, try a cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream.

These substitutions will give you flexibility in the kitchen and ensure that your cake turns out just as delicious, no matter what ingredients you have available.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get started with this easy-to-follow guide on how to bake the perfect white layer cake from scratch. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be on your way to a fluffy, beautiful cake!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy release after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set the dry ingredients aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for getting a light cake texture.

Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Vanilla

Slowly add the egg whites to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.

Step 5: Alternate Adding the Dry Ingredients and Milk

Reduce the mixer speed to low, and gradually add the dry ingredients in three batches, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients, making sure to mix just until combined—overmixing can result in a dense cake.

Step 6: Divide and Bake

Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed. Once all the sugar is incorporated, add the vanilla and a pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 8: Frost and Assemble

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a cake stand or plate. Spread an even layer of frosting over the top, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the sides and top of the cake until smooth. For a more polished look, use a bench scraper or offset spatula to even out the frosting.

How to Cook White Layer Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

In summary, here are the key steps for baking the perfect white layer cake:

1. Preheat the oven and prepare your cake pans.
2. Mix dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine them.
3. Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly for a light texture.
4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture.
5. Bake until golden and cooked through.
6. Cool the cakes completely before frosting.
7. Frost and assemble the cake layers.

Following these steps will guarantee a light, fluffy, and delicious white layer cake that is sure to impress your guests!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can result in a tough, dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined.
2. Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. Cold ingredients don’t incorporate as well and can lead to an uneven texture.
3. Not Leveling the Cake Layers: Uneven layers make for a lopsided cake. Use a serrated knife to level the tops if needed.
4. Rushing the Cooling Process: Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt. Patience is key here—wait until the cake is completely cool!

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve White Layer Cake

A white layer cake is best served fresh and at room temperature. When cutting slices, use a long, sharp knife for clean cuts. Serve with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for a classic pairing. This cake also pairs well with fresh berries or a side of whipped cream.

Presentation Ideas for White Layer Cake

To make your white layer cake look extra special, consider these presentation ideas:

• Decorative Piping: Use a piping bag with various tips to create beautiful designs on the top and sides of the cake.
• Fresh Flowers: Add a few edible flowers on top for an elegant, simple decoration.
• Sprinkles or Pearls: For a festive touch, sprinkle colorful sprinkles or edible pearls around the edges of the cake.
• Fruit Garnishes: Top the cake with fresh berries or slices of citrus for a pop of color and flavor.

White Layer Cake Recipe Tips

1. Use Cake Flour: Always opt for cake flour to achieve the lightest, fluffiest texture.
2. Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cake as it bakes—overbaking will result in a dry cake.
3. Chill the Cake Layers Before Frosting: If you have time, refrigerate the cake layers for about 30 minutes before frosting. This helps reduce crumbs and makes the cake easier to handle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the cake in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers in advance and freeze them for up to 1 month. Just make sure they’re tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. Frost them on the day of serving.

2. Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?

Definitely! Simply divide the batter into cupcake liners and reduce the baking time to 18-20 minutes.

3. How long will the cake stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container, the white layer cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

4. Can I add food coloring to the batter?

Yes! For a fun twist, you can add a few drops of gel food coloring to the batter for colored layers.

Conclusion

This white layer cake is a timeless, versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fluffy layers, rich flavor, and smooth buttercream frosting, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own twist with flavor variations, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser. So, why not give it a try and let your creativity shine?

Happy baking!

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