Heavenly White Cake Recipe
This delicate and fluffy white cake is perfect for any celebration, whether a wedding, birthday, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ¾ cups cake flour (or all-purpose flour, sifted)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional)
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment paper).
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add the vanilla and almond extracts and mix well.
4. Add the Egg Whites:
- Beat in the egg whites one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Make the Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
8. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake. Place the second cake layer on top.
- Use the remaining frosting to coat the top and sides of the cake.
Tips for the Perfect Cake:
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
- For extra lightness, fold in the egg whites rather than mixing them fully.
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes before serving for neat slices.
Enjoy this elegant and heavenly white cake with a cup of tea or coffee!