Discover the best recipe for a classic homemade white cake that’s soft, moist, and packed with flavor. Made with whipped egg whites for a light texture, this cake is perfect for weddings, birthdays, or a show-stopping dessert. The smooth vanilla-almond frosting adds a touch of elegance, making it one of the best cakes for celebrations or everyday indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a timeless dessert, this white cake recipe is easy to follow and guarantees stunning results.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 6 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar, divided
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 ½ cups (300 g) cake flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
For the Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups (340 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 5 ½ cups (660 g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 3-6 tablespoons heavy cream, at room temperature
Instructions
Make the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans; set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add ½ cup of sugar while mixing. Increase to high speed and whip until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- In another large bowl, cream the butter and remaining sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Beat well after each addition.
- Gently whisk one-third of the egg whites into the batter to lighten it. Using a rubber spatula, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Check at 15 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting:
- Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a handheld mixer, beat the butter on medium-high speed until creamy and pale, about 5 minutes.
- Gradually add half of the confectioners’ sugar on low speed until moistened, then increase to medium-high speed and beat for 3-5 minutes.
- Add the remaining confectioners’ sugar and repeat the process.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt. With the mixer on low speed, slowly add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for another 3-5 minutes until fluffy. Add more cream, ½ tablespoon at a time, to achieve a soft, spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread about ⅓ of the frosting evenly over the top.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top. Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
- Slice and serve this stunning homemade white cake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and Fluffy: Whipped egg whites create a delicate, airy texture.
- Elegant Flavor: A hint of almond extract complements the classic vanilla taste.
- Versatile: Perfect for celebrations or a casual dessert.
Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Be gentle when folding in egg whites to maintain airiness.
- Use clear vanilla extract for a bright white cake.
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free cake flour for a gluten-free version.
- Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Different Frosting: Try cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache for a unique flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Yes! Bake the cake layers up to 2 days ahead, wrap tightly, and refrigerate. Frost just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Serving and Suggestions
- Serve slices with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit sauce for added flavor.
- Pair with a glass of milk, tea, or coffee for a comforting treat.
- Decorate with sprinkles, edible flowers, or fresh fruit for a festive touch.
Enjoy the timeless elegance of this Homemade White Cake, a dessert that’s sure to impress every time!
Homemade White Cake
12
servings10
minutes25
minutesIngredients
For the Cake:
6 large egg whites, at room temperature
1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar, divided
1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
2 ½ cups (300 g) cake flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
For the Frosting:
1 ½ cups (340 g) unsalted butter, softened
5 ½ cups (660 g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon almond extract
⅛ teaspoon salt
3-6 tablespoons heavy cream, at room temperature
Directions
- Make the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans; set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add ½ cup of sugar while mixing. Increase to high speed and whip until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- In another large bowl, cream the butter and remaining sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Beat well after each addition.
- Gently whisk one-third of the egg whites into the batter to lighten it. Using a rubber spatula, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Check at 15 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting:
- Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a handheld mixer, beat the butter on medium-high speed until creamy and pale, about 5 minutes.
- Gradually add half of the confectioners’ sugar on low speed until moistened, then increase to medium-high speed and beat for 3-5 minutes.
- Add the remaining confectioners’ sugar and repeat the process.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt. With the mixer on low speed, slowly add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for another 3-5 minutes until fluffy. Add more cream, ½ tablespoon at a time, to achieve a soft, spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread about ⅓ of the frosting evenly over the top.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top. Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
- Slice and serve this stunning homemade white cake!
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