New Favorite White Layer Cake Recipe

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply craving something sweet, a classic white layer cake is always a showstopper. This light, fluffy, and moist cake is ideal for special occasions and pairs beautifully with a variety of frostings and fillings. Made with simple ingredients but boasting a rich, buttery flavor, this cake recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Stick around as we walk you through the step-by-step instructions, share helpful tips, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure your white layer cake turns out perfectly every time!

What Is a White Layer Cake?

A white layer cake is a traditional cake known for its soft, airy texture and pale white color, which comes from using egg whites instead of whole eggs. The flavor is delicate but buttery, making it the perfect canvas for any frosting or filling you choose. White layer cakes are often served at weddings, birthdays, or other celebrations, and they provide a beautiful, elegant dessert option that can be customized with different decorations or flavors.

Ingredients List for White Layer Cake

To make a moist and fluffy white layer cake, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups cake flour (not all-purpose flour; cake flour ensures a lighter crumb)
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 5 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for added flavor)

For the Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

You can also choose to add your favorite fillings between the layers, such as fresh fruit, jam, or lemon curd.

Substitutions and Variations for White Layer Cake

Here are some simple substitutions and variations to customize your white layer cake:

1. Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter, and use almond milk or coconut milk in place of whole milk.
2. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of cake flour. Some gluten-free flour blends contain xanthan gum, which helps to stabilize the cake's structure.
3. Flavor Variations: You can add different extracts or flavors to the cake. For example, a teaspoon of almond extract or coconut extract can completely change the cake’s flavor. You could also add lemon zest for a bright, citrusy twist.
4. Filling Options: Instead of a plain buttercream filling, try incorporating fresh fruit, strawberry jam, raspberry preserves, or lemon curd for added texture and flavor. For a richer filling, chocolate ganache is also a great choice.
5. Frosting Alternatives: While the traditional pairing for white cake is vanilla buttercream, you can switch it up by using cream cheese frosting, whipped cream frosting, or even a chocolate buttercream.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for White Layer Cake

Let’s break down the process of making your perfect white layer cake:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans

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

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour, giving the cake a lighter texture.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed for about 1 minute, until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating for 3-4 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the Egg Whites

With the mixer running on low speed, slowly add the egg whites one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step is crucial for maintaining the cake’s delicate, white color and airy texture.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Milk

With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Add the vanilla and almond extract, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can cause the cake to become dense.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula, then tap the pans gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Bake the cakes for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cakes are completely cooled, you can level the tops using a serrated knife to ensure an even surface for frosting.

How to Make Buttercream Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, it’s time to prepare the frosting:

Step 1: Cream the Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and fluffy.

Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud. Once incorporated, increase the mixer speed to medium and continue beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Cream, Vanilla, and Salt

Pour in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes, until the frosting is silky and spreadable. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more cream; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

How to Assemble the White Layer Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how to assemble and frost your white layer cake:

1. Step 1: Level the Cake Layers: Once the cake layers are completely cool, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary. This ensures even layers and stability when stacking.
2. Step 2: Add the First Layer of Frosting: Place one cake layer on your serving platter or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of buttercream on top. You can also add jam, lemon curd, or fresh berries if you want to include a filling.
3. Step 3: Stack the Cake: Place the second cake layer on top, with the bottom facing up to ensure a flat top. Press down gently to secure.
4. Step 4: Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting (crumb coat) over the entire cake to seal in any crumbs. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes to allow the crumb coat to set.
5. Step 5: Final Frosting Layer: Once the crumb coat is set, apply the final layer of frosting, making it as smooth or textured as you like. Use a bench scraper or offset spatula for a smooth finish.
6. Step 6: Decorate: You can decorate the cake with piped buttercream rosettes, fresh flowers, sprinkles, or berries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Be sure to mix the ingredients just until combined.
2. Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure your butter, egg whites, and milk are all at room temperature before mixing.
3. Skipping the Crumb Coat: If you want a professional-looking finish, the crumb coat is essential to locking in crumbs and providing a smooth surface for your final frosting layer.
4. Rushing the Cooling Process: Don’t frost the cake until it’s completely cool, or the frosting may melt and become runny.

Serving and Presentation Tips

1. Chill the Cake Before Slicing: For cleaner slices, chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes before cutting.
2. Use a Sharp Knife: When cutting the cake, use a sharp, thin-bladed knife. Wipe the knife clean between slices for smooth, even cuts.
3. Garnish: Add fresh flowers, berries, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

How to Serve White Layer Cake

Serve your white layer cake as a classic dessert at any celebration or gathering. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of coffee for an extra special treat. The cake can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Presentation Ideas for White Layer Cake

1. Naked Cake: For a rustic look, use only a thin layer of frosting, allowing some of the cake layers to peek through.
2. Floral Decoration: Decorate with edible flowers or fresh roses for a beautiful, elegant presentation.
3. Sprinkle-Topped: Add a playful touch with colorful sprinkles or metallic cake decorations for a birthday or festive occasion.

White Layer Cake Recipe Tips

• Use Cake Strips: Wrap cake strips around your pans to ensure even baking and prevent the edges from over-browning.
• Chill the Frosting: If your buttercream becomes too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm it up before spreading.
• Piping: For decorative edges or patterns, use a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cake in advance? Yes! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Frost the cake the day you plan to serve it.
2. Can I make cupcakes with this recipe? Absolutely! This recipe works well for cupcakes. Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full and bake for 18-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
3. What’s the difference between white cake and vanilla cake? White cake uses only egg whites, giving it a lighter color and more delicate texture. Vanilla cake typically uses whole eggs and has a slightly richer flavor.
4. How can I prevent my cake from being dry? Make sure to measure your flour correctly (using the spoon-and-level method) and don’t overbake the cake. Checking the cake a few minutes before the recommended time can help prevent overbaking.

Conclusion

This White Layer Cake Recipe is perfect for any occasion, delivering a light, fluffy texture and deliciously rich flavor. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, wedding, or just because, this cake is sure to become your new favorite go-to recipe. With its simple ingredients and customizable nature, you can create a dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious. Try this recipe today and wow your friends and family with a classic, crowd-pleasing white layer cake!

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