If you have ever dreamed of making a perfectly tender and fluffy cake that’s delightfully light and melts in your mouth, then this White Cake From Scratch Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a classic dessert that brings together a simple harmony of vanilla, butter, and sugar to create the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a birthday, celebration, or just a special treat, this recipe delivers a wonderfully soft texture and subtle sweetness that’s completely irresistible. Plus, baking it from scratch means you get that warm, homemade love in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believing in simplicity is the secret to the perfect cake. Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in shaping the soft crumb, rich flavor, and beautiful color of your White Cake From Scratch Recipe. They’re pantry staples that come together in harmony to create magic.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): Provides the structure and tenderness your cake needs without being too dense.
- Baking powder (2 1/2 teaspoons): The essential leavening agent that gives your cake its airy lift and lightness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the dough perfectly.
- Unsalted butter, softened (3/4 cup): Adds richness and a creamy texture that’s key to this classic cake.
- Granulated sugar (1 3/4 cups): Sweetness that also helps tenderize and create that lovely crumb.
- Large egg whites (4, room temperature): Whipped gently into the batter to keep the cake airy without extra yolk heaviness.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Infuses a warm, fragrant note that elevates this simple cake to something special.
- Whole milk (1 cup, room temperature): Adds moisture and a touch of creaminess to keep every bite perfectly tender.
How to Make White Cake From Scratch Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven
Start by heating your oven to a precise 350°F (175°C). While it warms, grease your two 8-inch round cake pans thoroughly, then lightly dust them with flour or line with parchment paper. This step is crucial to prevent your cake from sticking and ensure perfect edges once baked.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these ahead of time ensures that when you add them in later, they’ll be evenly distributed, which is key for consistent rise and crumb structure.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Grab your mixer and beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. You want this mixture light and fluffy—the secret to a velvety texture lies in this creaming process that incorporates air to keep the cake wonderfully soft.
Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Vanilla
Add the egg whites one at a time, gently beating them in with the butter-sugar mix. This slow incorporation prevents deflating your batter. Follow with the vanilla extract for that rich, aromatic flavor that everyone loves.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients and Milk
Now it’s time to bring together the dry ingredients and milk into the batter. Alternate adding them starting and ending with the dry mix. Use a low-speed setting on your mixer, and make sure not to overmix. Overworking the batter can make your cake tough, but a gentle touch keeps it tender and light.
Step 6: Divide Batter and Bake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans and smooth out the tops using a spatula. Pop them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know your White Cake From Scratch Recipe is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—no crumbs or gooey batter attached.
Step 7: Cool Before Frosting
Once baked, allow your cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool fully. This step stops the cooking process and sets the texture perfectly before you add any frosting or decoration.
How to Serve White Cake From Scratch Recipe
Garnishes
Sometimes the simplest touches make the biggest impact. Fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or delicate edible flowers add color and a fresh note to this classic cake. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of homemade raspberry sauce or a light lemon glaze complements the vanilla beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your slice with a scoop of creamy vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a dreamy combo, or a cup of hot coffee or tea to balance the sweetness. Light fruit salads also make refreshing side companions that bring a little contrast without overwhelming the subtle flavors of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Try layering this cake with whipped cream and sliced strawberries for a luscious strawberry shortcake. Or even cut into small cubes for cake pops dipped in chocolate. The White Cake From Scratch Recipe is so versatile that it invites you to explore all kinds of creative presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, it stays delicious for up to 2 days, but for longer storage, refrigeration is best to maintain moisture.
Freezing
If you want to bake in advance, this cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap each cake layer individually in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If your cake feels slightly dry after refrigeration, warming it gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds can bring back some softness. Just be careful not to overheat or it could dry out further.
FAQs
Can I use butter-flavored shortening instead of butter?
Butter-flavored shortening can work, but unsalted butter gives the best natural flavor and texture for this White Cake From Scratch Recipe. The butter’s richness and moisture contribute to that tender crumb you want.
Why does the recipe use only egg whites and not whole eggs?
Using egg whites alone helps make the cake lighter and fluffier since the yolks add more fat and density. This method keeps the cake soft without being heavy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help mimic the structure gluten provides.
How can I make this cake more moist?
Ensuring you don’t overmix is key. Also, using whole milk and slightly soft butter contributes to moisture. Adding a simple syrup soak after baking is another great way to keep your cake extra moist.
What frosting pairs best with this white cake?
Classic buttercream frosting is a perfect companion, as is cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist. Whipped cream and fresh fruit also work beautifully if you prefer something lighter.
Final Thoughts
This White Cake From Scratch Recipe is truly a gem that every home baker should have in their repertoire. Its timeless flavor, tender crumb, and straightforward technique mean it’s ideal for any occasion or just a delightful day in your kitchen. Grab your ingredients, embrace the process, and enjoy every bite of the beautiful cake you’ve created with your own hands. Happy baking!
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White Cake From Scratch Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic White Cake from Scratch is a tender, fluffy, and moist cake made with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for celebrations or everyday desserts, this recipe yields a delicate vanilla-flavored cake that is versatile for many occasions.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer on medium speed to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Egg Whites and Vanilla: Gradually beat in the egg whites one at a time into the butter mixture. Then add the pure vanilla extract and blend until incorporated.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk: Alternately add the dry ingredients and whole milk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Divide Batter and Smooth Tops: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they are ready to be frosted or served as desired.
Notes
- Ensure egg whites and milk are at room temperature for better batter consistency and rise.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and airy.
- You can substitute whole milk with buttermilk for extra moisture and tang.
- Use fresh baking powder to ensure proper leavening.
- If using parchment paper, cut rounds to fit exactly for easy cake removal.
