Get ready to elevate your dessert game with this New Favorite White Layer Cake recipe! Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any special occasion, this light and fluffy cake is a true crowd-pleaser. With layers of moist vanilla cake and a creamy frosting, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Let’s dive in and create a masterpiece that everyone will love!

What is “White Layer Cake”?

White layer cake is a classic dessert known for its light, tender texture and pure white color, typically achieved using egg whites rather than whole eggs. This cake is often paired with buttercream or cream cheese frosting and can be adorned with fruits, sprinkles, or edible flowers for a stunning presentation. Its subtle vanilla flavor makes it versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Ingredients List for White Layer Cake

To bake this delightful cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake Layers:

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its texture.
5 large egg whites: Ensures a light, fluffy texture and a pure white color.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely flavor.
1 cup whole milk: Moistens the batter.

For the Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Forms the base of the frosting.
4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
2 tablespoons heavy cream: Adds a smooth texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize your white layer cake with these alternatives:

Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Dairy-Free Options: Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives such as almond or oat milk.
Flavor Variations: Add lemon or almond extract for a unique twist on the classic vanilla flavor.
Layer Add-Ins: Incorporate fresh berries or lemon curd between the layers for added flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating this stunning white layer cake is simple with these step-by-step instructions:

How to Cook White Layer Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Add Egg Whites: Gradually add the egg whites, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Mixtures: Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and the whole milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Pour and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting: While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating the softened butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
- Add the second layer and repeat the frosting process.
- Place the third layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your white layer cake is a success, keep these tips in mind:

Overmixing the Batter: Mix only until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best texture.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid a dense cake.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Make your cake not only delicious but also visually appealing with these serving tips:

How to Serve White Layer Cake

Serve this delightful cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Slice into even portions for serving.

Presentation Ideas for White Layer Cake

Garnish: Top the cake with fresh berries, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Cake Stand: Use a decorative cake stand to elevate the presentation.

White Layer Cake Recipe Tips

Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: You can freeze the cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites? A: Using whole eggs will give the cake a slightly denser texture and a yellow hue. For a classic white cake, stick with egg whites.

Q: How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan? A: Grease and flour the pans well or use parchment paper to line the bottoms for easy removal.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly and store in the fridge or at room temperature until ready to frost.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream? A: You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative, but the frosting may not be as rich.

Conclusion

This New Favorite White Layer Cake recipe is a timeless classic that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its fluffy texture and creamy frosting, it’s perfect for any celebration. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add your unique twists, this cake will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home. So grab your baking tools and get ready to create a beautiful dessert that everyone will adore!