White Cake Recipe

Embark on a culinary journey with our White Cake Recipe, a celebration of simplicity and elegance. This tender and moist white cake is a canvas for your creativity, perfect for any occasion where you want to savor the classic flavor of vanilla. Enjoy the pure delight of this timeless treat.

Why we love this recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups sugar
• 5 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup sour cream, at room temperature

How to Make this Recipe:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg Whites:
   • Add the room temperature egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Add Vanilla Extract:
   • Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. Incorporate Sour Cream:
   • Gently fold in the sour cream until the batter is smooth and well combined.
8. Divide Batter and Bake:
   • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Frost:
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Success Tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and a smoother batter.
• Be cautious not to overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
• If the tops of the cakes are domed, you can level them with a serrated knife for even layering.

Storage:

• Store the unfrosted cake layers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Notes:

• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different extracts or flavorings to customize the taste. Lemon or almond extract can add a delightful twist to the classic vanilla flavor.
• Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients ensures a smoother batter and better incorporation of flavors. Take the time to let the butter, egg whites, buttermilk, and sour cream come to room temperature.
• Avoid Overmixing: Be cautious not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Overmixing can result in a dense cake rather than the desired light and tender texture.
• Cake Layer Thickness: Adjust the baking time if you decide to use different-sized cake pans to maintain even layers. Thicker layers may require a longer baking time, while thinner layers may need less time.
• Leveling Cake Layers: If the cake layers have domed during baking, use a serrated knife to level them for even layering and a professional appearance.
• Frosting Choices: This white cake pairs well with various frosting options such as vanilla buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or a light whipped cream frosting. Consider the occasion and personal preferences when choosing the frosting.
• Make-Ahead Tips: The unfrosted cake layers can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
• Freezing: If you plan to freeze the cake layers, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.
• Creative Decorations: Let your creativity shine by experimenting with decorative elements. Fresh berries, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar can enhance the visual appeal.
• Dairy-Free Options: For a dairy-free version, consider using plant-based substitutes like vegan butter, almond or soy milk, and dairy-free sour cream.

Remember, baking is an art, and these notes are meant to guide you while leaving room for your personal touch and creativity. Enjoy the process of creating a delicious and beautiful white cake!

Nutrition: (Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific brands and ingredient variations.)

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: [Provide approximate caloric content per serving]
• Total Fat: [Provide grams of fat per serving]
• Cholesterol: [Provide milligrams of cholesterol per serving]
• Sodium: [Provide milligrams of sodium per serving]
• Total Carbohydrates: [Provide grams of carbohydrates per serving]
• Protein: [Provide grams of protein per serving]

FAQs:

1. Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
   • While egg whites contribute to the cake’s light texture, you can use whole eggs if you prefer a slightly denser cake.
2. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
   • Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and contributes to the cake’s tenderness. You can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Can I make cupcakes instead of a layer cake with this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use this batter to make cupcakes. Adjust the baking time accordingly, usually around 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, our White Cake Recipe is a testament to the beauty found in simplicity. This classic dessert captures the essence of a tender crumb, pure vanilla flavor, and versatile elegance. As you embark on the journey of creating this delightful white cake, you’ll find joy in the ease of preparation and the endless possibilities for customization.

The love for this recipe stems from its ability to be a canvas for your creativity, allowing you to tailor the cake to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or a simple family gathering, the timeless appeal of a white cake remains unmatched.

The careful balance of ingredients, from the light and airy egg whites to the richness of buttermilk and sour cream, ensures a moist and flavorful result. The notes provided offer guidance and flexibility, encouraging you to make this recipe your own.

As you savor each slice of this white cake, adorned with your chosen frosting and decorations, may it bring not just sweetness but a sense of accomplishment and joy. Baking is an art, and this recipe invites you to express yourself, creating memories and moments to be cherished.

Celebrate the beauty of simplicity and the joy of baking with our White Cake Recipe – a timeless and delicious classic that never goes out of style.