So, you’re craving something sweet, light, and utterly delicious? Look no further! This homemade white cake recipe is your ticket to fluffy, buttery bliss. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s easier to make than you might think.
Why This Recipe Works
- Uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients for a hassle-free baking experience.
- The combination of butter and vanilla extract gives it a rich, irresistible flavor.
- Incorporating egg whites only ensures a light, airy texture that’s perfectly fluffy.
- Detailed instructions guarantee success even for novice bakers.
- Versatile base recipe that can be customized with endless variations.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cakes release easily after baking. This step is crucial for avoiding any cake disasters!
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing any pockets of baking powder in your finished cake.
Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, beat 3/4 cup softened unsalted butter and 2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the cake’s light texture.
Add Egg Whites and Vanilla
Beat in 4 large egg whites one at a time, then stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. The egg whites are key to the cake’s white color and fluffy texture, while the vanilla adds depth of flavor.
Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup whole milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. This method ensures a smooth, well-mixed batter without overworking the gluten.
Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door too early to prevent the cakes from sinking.
Cool and Serve
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience-testing step ensures your cakes are firm enough to handle without falling apart.
Tips and Tricks
For an even fluffier cake, sift your dry ingredients before mixing. Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly, so take your butter and eggs out of the fridge ahead of time. If you’re short on time, a quick fix for cold butter is to grate it before creaming. For a professional touch, level your cakes with a serrated knife before frosting to ensure even layers. And remember, practice makes perfect—don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t bakery-worthy.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon White Cake: Add the zest of two lemons to the batter and substitute lemon juice for half the milk.
- Coconut White Cake: Mix in 1 cup shredded coconut into the batter and use coconut milk instead of whole milk.
- Almond White Cake: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Berry White Cake: Fold 1 cup of your favorite berries into the batter before baking.
- Chocolate Chip White Cake: Stir in 1 cup white chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg whites?
Yes, you can use whole eggs, but your cake will have a slightly yellow tint and a denser texture. For the classic white cake color and fluffiness, stick with egg whites.
How can I make this cake dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use almond or soy milk instead of whole milk. Just ensure all substitutes are at room temperature for best results.
Why did my cake sink in the middle?
This usually happens if the oven door is opened too early or if the cake isn’t fully baked. Ensure your oven is properly preheated and resist the urge to peek until the minimum baking time has passed.
Summary
This homemade white cake recipe is a foolproof way to bring a little sweetness into your life. With its fluffy texture, buttery flavor, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
