There’s a certain joy in the simplicity of a perfectly baked white cake that brings the warmth of home and celebration to any occasion. Vibrant childhood memories flood my mind each time I slice into this classic treat—the tender layers, the luscious vanilla frosting, and the delightful aroma that fills the kitchen. I often find myself longing for that nostalgia, especially on birthdays or gatherings when the air buzzes with laughter and cheer.
This three-layer white cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece waiting to bloom on your table. With a light and fluffy texture, complemented by a creamy, decadent frosting, it bridges the gap between the everyday and the extraordinary. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special celebration or just to indulge in something sweet after a long day, this recipe promises to elevate any moment. Join me in creating this timeless classic that’s sure to charm your family and friends alike!
Why is White Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite delivers a sweet, rich vanilla taste that takes you back to festive family gatherings.
Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Versatile Delight: Dress it up for weddings or keep it simple for casual gatherings—the white cake fits every occasion!
Stunning Layers: The three-layer design is visually impressive and deliciously decadent; it’s a showstopper on any table.
Perfect for Any Celebration: Birthdays, anniversaries, or just because, this cake adds joy to all your special moments!
Lasting Memories: Baking this classic cake fosters cherished traditions, creating moments your loved ones will remember for years.
White Cake Ingredients
• Get ready to bake this classic treat!
For the Cake Layers
- Unsalted Butter (2 sticks, room temperature) – Provides richness and moisture; reserve some for greasing the pans.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 cups, 360 g) – Forms the structure of the cake; no substitutions recommended for this delightful white cake.
- Baking Powder (1 Tbsp) – Acts as a leavening agent for that perfect rise and fluffiness.
- Kosher Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor; don’t skip it for a well-balanced taste.
- Baking Soda (1/2 tsp) – Works with baking powder to provide lift to your cake.
- Granulated Sugar (2 cups, 400 g) – Adds sweetness and moisture retention; feel free to reduce slightly for less sweetness.
- Vegetable Oil (1/4 cup) – Introduces moisture and helps keep the cake tender; can substitute with melted coconut oil.
- Large Egg Whites (6, room temperature) – Contributes to the cake’s light texture; avoid using whole eggs for better results in white cake.
- Clear Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Offers vanilla flavor without tinting the cake; use pure vanilla extract if preferred.
- Almond Extract (1 tsp) – Adds a subtle nutty flavor; omit or reduce if there are allergy concerns.
- Full-fat Sour Cream (2/3 cup, room temperature) – Ensures moisture and a rich flavor; Greek yogurt can be a substitute.
- Whole Milk (1 cup, room temperature) – Hydrates the batter and can be substituted with any milk available.
For the Frosting
- Confectioners’ Sugar (5 cups, 565 g) – Essential for frosting; provides sweetness and texture.
- Heavy Cream (1/4 cup, or more as needed) – Adjusts frosting consistency to your liking.
For the Decoration
- White Sprinkles (for decorating, optional) – Adds a touch of visual appeal to your stunning white cake.
How to Make White Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 9-inch round cake pans. Grease them well, line with parchment paper, and dust with flour to prevent sticking.
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Whisk together the dry ingredients in a bowl: combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. This blend is essential for a perfectly risen cake!
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Cream sugar and butter in a mixer until fluffy. Gradually mix in 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, followed by the 6 large egg whites, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated for a light texture.
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Combine liquids by mixing in 2 teaspoons of clear vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of almond extract, and 2/3 cup of full-fat sour cream until smooth. This adds depth and moisture to your batter.
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Alternate and mix the dry ingredients and 1 cup of whole milk with the wet mixture. Stir gently until a smooth batter forms, being careful not to overmix, as we want that fluffy crumb!
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Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool the cakes in their pans for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn them out onto wire racks. Allow them to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the icing.
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Prepare the frosting by beating together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 5 cups of confectioners’ sugar, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until you reach your desired consistency.
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Level the cakes with a knife, stack them with frosting in between each layer, and coat the entire cake with frosting. Decorate with optional white sprinkles for a festive touch!
Optional: Garnish with fresh fruit for an extra layer of flavor and flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
White Cake Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on the classic white cake!
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Coconut Delight: Add 1/2 cup of finely shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flair. The texture and flavor will transport you straight to a summer paradise!
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Citrus Burst: Swap almond extract with lemon or orange zest for a zesty alternative. This brightens each bite, making your cake radiate sunshine.
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Rainbow Layers: Divide the batter into separate bowls and dye each portion with food coloring. Layer them for a vibrant and fun dessert that’s perfect for celebrations.
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Chocolate Surprise: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for an unexpected chocolatey contrast. The combination of flavors will leave everyone wanting more!
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Nutty Infusion: Stir in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to add crunch and richness. It creates a delightful textural contrast against the fluffy cake layers.
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Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor profile. This comforting touch makes it perfect for fall gatherings.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the vanilla frosting for a tangy cream cheese frosting for a richer, more decadent touch. It pairs beautifully with the light texture of the cake.
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Berries and Cream: Top your frosted cake with fresh berries for a refreshing flavor boost. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness, making it a dessert to remember!
Expert Tips for a Perfect White Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and egg whites, are at room temperature for easier mixing and a fluffy texture in your white cake.
- Measure Accurately: Use the spoon and level method for flour to prevent a dense cake; too much flour can ruin the fluffy nature of your white cake.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting; otherwise, the frosting will melt and slide off, losing that beautiful finish.
- Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add additional heavy cream a tablespoon at a time until you achieve the perfect spreadable consistency for your white cake.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined to maintain the cake’s light texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake that defies the fluffy promise!
What to Serve with White Cake?
Transform your white cake into an unforgettable feast by pairing it with delightful additions that enhance every bite.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of color and tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream creates a luxurious contrast to the fluffy layers, making each slice feel indulgent.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream complements the cake’s flavors beautifully, creating a nostalgic dessert reminiscent of childhood treats.
- Chocolate Ganache: A rich chocolate ganache drizzled over the cake adds decadence that takes it to another level, perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Citrus Sorbet: Zesty lemon or orange sorbet invigorates the palate and provides a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the cake.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: Cool, refreshing drinks such as homemade lemonade or iced tea enhance the enjoyment of your cake during warm gatherings.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for a sweet and salty contrast, elevating your dessert to gourmet status.
- Nutty Crumble: A sprinkle of toasted almonds or pecans adds texture and flavor that makes each bite unforgettable.
How to Store and Freeze White Cake
Fridge: Store your frosted white cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain its freshness and moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual layers or the entire frosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the cake to the fridge overnight to thaw gently before serving.
Leftovers: Any leftover cake slices can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful White Cake layers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on special occasions! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply allow them to cool completely, then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap to maintain their moisture. Alternatively, if you’d like to prep further ahead, freeze the layers for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before decorating. When you’re ready to serve your cake, frost it with your homemade vanilla frosting and add sprinkles for that festive touch. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a stunning dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
White Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of eggs should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! For the best results in making a white cake, you should use large egg whites at room temperature. Using egg whites instead of whole eggs helps achieve that airy texture we crave in a light white cake. Be sure not to use whole eggs; it can alter the delicate nature of your cake.
How should I store my frosted white cake?
To keep your frosted white cake moist and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you don’t have a container large enough, you can cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap. This helps maintain its freshness while protecting it from other refrigerator odors!
Can I freeze my white cake?
Very! You can freeze both the cake layers and the frosted cake for up to 3 months. I recommend wrapping each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. If you’ve already frosted the cake, make sure it’s fully cooled before you wrap it. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight before serving—this will keep it nice and moist.
What should I do if the cake rises unevenly?
If your white cake does not rise evenly, it could be due to an oven that isn’t properly calibrated or incorrect oven rack positioning. Make sure your oven is preheated and level the cake batter in the pans before baking. If you find that some layers are taller than others, you can use a serrated knife to level them out once they’ve cooled. This ensures a professional finish when frosting!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To adapt this white cake recipe for a dairy-free diet, substitute the butter with vegan butter or a dairy-free margarine. For the sour cream, you can use a dairy-free yogurt, such as coconut yogurt. Additionally, almond milk or oat milk can replace whole milk without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure to read labels if you have allergies!
Are there any common allergies I should be aware of?
Definitely! This white cake recipe includes common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and nuts (if you use almond extract). If baking for someone with allergies, consider substituting the egg whites with a commercial egg replacer or applesauce and skip the almond extract. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety.
Irresistible White Cake: Your Go-To Celebration Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 9-inch round cake pans. Grease them well, line with parchment paper, and dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients in a bowl: combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda.
- Cream sugar and butter in a mixer until fluffy. Gradually mix in 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, followed by the 6 large egg whites.
- Combine liquids by mixing in 2 teaspoons of clear vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of almond extract, and 2/3 cup of full-fat sour cream.
- Alternate and mix the dry ingredients and 1 cup of whole milk with the wet mixture until a smooth batter forms.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in their pans for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by beating together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 5 cups of confectioners' sugar, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.
- Level the cakes, stack them with frosting in between each layer, and coat the entire cake with frosting. Decorate with optional white sprinkles.