I’ve been making this white cake from scratch recipe for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they get so excited when they see the finished product.
The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, and the result is a moist and delicious cake that’s perfect for any occasion. I’ve served it at family gatherings, birthday parties, and even just as a sweet treat after dinner.
My family loves it when I make it for special occasions, but we also enjoy it on a regular Tuesday night. The key to making this recipe work is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overmix the batter.
This ensures that the cake is light and fluffy, with a subtle sweetness that’s just right. One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s a great way to get my kids involved in cooking.
They love measuring out the ingredients and mixing the batter, and they’re always proud to be able to say they helped make something delicious. Plus, it’s a great way for me to teach them about following a recipe and measuring ingredients accurately.
Classic White Cake from Scratch
4.8 from 1509 votes
A tender, moist white cake with a delicate crumb and pure vanilla flavor. This from-scratch recipe yields a perfect layer cake for birthdays or any celebration.
2Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds.
3In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
4In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
5Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
6Add the room temperature egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition.
7Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
8With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture in three additions, alternating with the room temperature milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
9Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
10Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
11Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are lightly golden.
12Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
13For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream, beating until light and fluffy.
For the best texture, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. To avoid a dense cake, do not overmix the batter once the flour is added. The cake layers can be stored wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Watch Video Of How Classic White Cake from Scratch Works
This white cake from scratch recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just need a sweet treat after dinner.
It’s perfect for family gatherings because everyone loves the taste of homemade baked goods.
Plus, it’s easy to store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About White Cake from Scratch
1. What is the difference between white cake and vanilla cake?
White cake does not contain any flavorings or extracts, whereas vanilla cake typically contains vanilla extract or another flavoring agent.
2. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
While you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute, keep in mind that your cake may not have the same light texture as one made with cake flour. Cake flour has a lower protein content than all-purpose flour, which helps create a tender crumb.
3. How do I ensure my white cake turns out moist?
To achieve a moist cake, make sure you don’t overmix the batter, use buttermilk instead of regular milk (if using), and don’t overbake – aim for an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
4. Can I frost this cake with buttercream or whipped cream?
Yes, both buttercream and whipped cream pair well with this white cake from scratch recipe. You can also top it with powdered sugar or simply dust it with confectioners’ sugar for a more rustic look.
These classic Kentucky bourbon balls combine crushed vanilla wafers, toasted pecans, and a generous splash of bourbon for a boozy, no-bake treat. Coated in a du…
A creamy, hearty chili made with tender chicken, mild green chiles, and a rich broth thickened with cream cheese. This low-carb version delivers all the comfort…
A comforting and easy-to-make potato casserole perfect for family dinners. This dish features tender potatoes baked in a creamy sauce with a crispy top….
A classic Chinese dish featuring succulent shrimp in a savory garlic sauce. This recipe combines the richness of garlic with the delicate flavor of shrimp, crea…
A moist and tender banana bread that brings pure joy with every slice. This easy recipe uses ripe bananas and simple pantry ingredients for a comforting treat….
