Recipe for a Simple White Cake
Table of Contents
A recipe for a simple white cake is a must-have in every baker’s repertoire. This versatile cake is perfect for birthdays, weddings, celebrations, or just as a treat to enjoy with family and friends. In this article, we’ll walk you through an easy and delicious white cake recipe, with tips, variations, and answers to common questions, ensuring you can create the perfect white cake every time.
This article will also include ideas to enhance the flavor and presentation, and how you can adapt the recipe for special diets, such as gluten-free or vegan options.
Key Ingredients for a Simple White Cake
To make this simple white cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup white sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ cup milk
Using high-quality, room-temperature ingredients is the key to ensuring a smooth batter and a light, airy cake. Fresh eggs and pure vanilla extract will give your cake a rich, flavorful aroma that elevates the entire dessert. The combination of butter and sugar creates the foundation for that classic moist texture.
Step-by-Step Recipe for a Simple White Cake
Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly light and fluffy white cake:
- Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal. - Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air into the batter, which is essential for the cake’s light texture. - Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to give your cake a fragrant sweetness. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Sifting helps remove any clumps and aerates the flour, which contributes to the lightness of the cake. - Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients to ensure a smooth and even batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. - Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth out the tops. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven during baking, as this can cause the cake to deflate. - Cool and Frost
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting. Once cooled, you can frost the cake with your favorite frosting.
For more detailed instructions, you can explore visual guides, like the one on AllRecipes’ Simple White Cake Recipe, which offers helpful images for each step of the process.
Tips for a Perfect Simple White Cake
To ensure your simple white cake comes out perfectly light and fluffy every time, here are some expert tips:
- Don’t Overmix: Once all the ingredients are combined, stop mixing to prevent a dense cake. Overmixing can cause the gluten in the flour to over-develop, leading to a tough texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature butter, eggs, and milk for a smoother batter. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle, which may affect the texture.
- Use Cake Flour for a Lighter Texture: If you have cake flour on hand, it’s worth substituting it for all-purpose flour for a finer, softer crumb. If not, you can make a homemade version by replacing 2 tablespoons of flour with cornstarch per cup of flour.
- Bake on the Middle Rack: Always bake cakes on the middle rack of the oven for the most even baking.
- Cool the Cake Completely: Before frosting, ensure your cake is completely cool. Warm cake will melt the frosting and create a messy, uneven finish.
For more baking tips, Sugar Spun Run’s White Cake Recipe delves deeper into the science behind creating a perfect white cake, offering insight into everything from ingredients to oven settings.
Simple White Cake Variations
This recipe for a simple white cake is highly versatile, and you can easily modify it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Below are some delicious variations:
- Flavor Variations:
Add a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing twist. You can also swap out some of the milk for coconut milk to give the cake a subtle tropical flavor. - Frosting Options:
Pair your white cake with a classic vanilla buttercream, or try a cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast. For a lighter option, whipped cream with fresh berries makes a lovely accompaniment. - Layer and Fill:
Turn this recipe into a layered cake by slicing the cake horizontally and filling it with fruit preserves, chocolate ganache, or flavored mousse. This is a great way to add extra flavor and texture. - Make It Gluten-Free:
For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add it yourself to help maintain the cake’s structure.
For more gluten-free dessert ideas, you can check out our Healthy Banana Bread No Sugar Gluten Free or Gluten-Free Sugar Cookie Recipe.
Vegan Adaptation for a Simple White Cake
You can easily make this simple white cake recipe vegan-friendly by making a few substitutions:
- Replace the butter with a plant-based butter or margarine.
- Use plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk.
- Substitute each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes).
- Ensure your sugar is vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
Despite the changes, you’ll still have a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for vegan guests.
FAQs about Simple White Cake
1. Why is my white cake dense?
A dense cake is usually the result of overmixing or not measuring ingredients correctly. Be sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping it directly, and avoid overmixing the batter once all ingredients are combined.
2. Can I use oil instead of butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the butter with oil. Using oil will make the cake more moist, but it will change the flavor and texture slightly. Butter adds richness and a deeper flavor, whereas oil provides more moisture without as much flavor.
3. How do I store a simple white cake?
You can store your white cake at room temperature for up to two days. If you’re making the cake ahead of time, it’s best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to five days, or freeze the layers for up to three months.
4. Can I make a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure the blend includes xanthan gum, or add 1 teaspoon per cup of flour to provide structure.
5. What if I don’t have cake flour?
No problem! You can easily make your own cake flour by replacing 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with cornstarch for each cup of flour called for in the recipe. Sift the two together for the best results.
6. Can I make a vegan version of this cake?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted for a vegan diet. Simply use plant-based milk, a flax egg substitute, and vegan butter. The result will still be a delicious, moist white cake that everyone will enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
This simple white cake pairs well with a variety of accompaniments:
- Fresh Berries: Top the cake with a handful of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a light lemon glaze over the top of the cake for a zesty finish.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
It’s also a fantastic cake to serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea, or even a glass of champagne for more festive occasions.
Conclusion
This recipe for a simple white cake is an essential, go-to recipe for any baker. Whether you’re preparing a cake for a birthday, a wedding, or just a family gathering, this recipe is versatile enough to be customized to suit any occasion. With the tips, variations, and answers provided in this article, you’re now ready to bake a perfectly light and fluffy white cake that will impress everyone. Your family and friends.
For more easy and delicious dessert ideas, be sure to check out our other recipes like the Healthy Banana Bread No Sugar Gluten Free or our Gluten-Free Sugar Cookie Recipe. These recipes offer healthier alternatives while still delivering great taste and texture.
By following this simple recipe and incorporating the tips provided, you’ll have a versatile white cake that can be dressed up for special events or kept as a simple, classic treat. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced baker looking for a reliable white cake recipe, this article has everything you need to succeed.
Final Thoughts
This simple white cake recipe offers an excellent base for countless creative variations, from flavor additions to elegant frosting combinations. It’s also adaptable for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious treat. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings, toppings, and garnishes to make the cake your own. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just a cozy night in, this white cake will always be a crowd-pleaser.
Happy baking!
