Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream

Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream

Baking a cake can sometimes feel daunting, but fear not! The Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is here to turn your baking dreams into a reality. This cake isn’t just any ordinary dessert; it’s a fluffy, tender masterpiece that boasts a delicate crumb and a sweet vanilla flavor that’s sure to delight everyone at your table. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or planning a cozy family gathering, this cake will add a touch of elegance and charm to any occasion.

Did you know that white cake has been a classic favorite for generations? It’s often the go-to cake for weddings and special celebrations. This recipe is not only simple and quick to prepare, but it’s also incredibly family-friendly. In less than an hour, you can whip up this scrumptious cake that will wow your loved ones! If by chance you have tried baking the ever-popular chocolate cake, you’ll find that this white cake serves up a refreshing contrast. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your family to a delightful afternoon of baking!

What is Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream?

So, what’s in a name? A “Perfect White Cake” is akin to a blank canvas just waiting for your culinary creativity. You might be curious; why do they call it "white"? Is it because of how it looks or is it a nod to the simple yet sweet taste? Well, you see, this cake wins hearts with its stunning snow-white color and rich buttery flavor. There’s an adage that says, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I guarantee this white cake will make you one beloved baker!

The "perfect" designation may seem ambitious, but trust me—you’ll be amazed at how this cake turns out! It’s incredibly versatile, fitting not only different occasions but also various fillings and frostings. So, my friends, let’s roll up our sleeves, whisk our worries away, and dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream:

Here are three key reasons to make this marvelous white cake:

1. Fluffy Delight: The main highlight of this recipe is its light, fluffy texture. Each slice melts in your mouth, with a buttery flavor that’s enhanced by the vanilla buttercream icing. Imagine a cloud of sweetness on your plate!

2. Cost-Effective: Who says delicious treats have to break the bank? Making this cake at home is not only more affordable than store-bought cakes but also gives you the freedom to customize it to your liking and dietary needs.

3. Tantalizing Toppings: Topped with a homemade velvety vanilla buttercream, this cake transforms into a special treat. You can also experiment with fresh fruits like berries or even chocolate shavings to add flair.

The beauty of this recipe is that it can take you beyond the classic celebration cake! Have you explored the enchanting world of red velvet cake on our blog? It’s another delightful crowd-pleaser that brings a different vibe to your dessert table.

How to Make Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream:

Quick Overview

This cake is not only delicious but also easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. In just about 45 minutes, you could be serving up a slice of happiness to your family. The standout elements are the moistness of the cake itself and the rich and creamy vanilla buttercream frosting.

Key Ingredients for Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream:

• For the Cake:

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 5 large egg whites
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk

• For the Vanilla Buttercream:

  • 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
  • 6 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans with baking spray or butter.

2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set them aside.

3. Beat the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.

4. Add Egg Whites: Mix in the egg whites one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk in batches, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.

6. Pour and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool: Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Make the Buttercream: In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add vanilla extract and enough heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.

9. Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of vanilla buttercream on top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and repeat. Frost the entire cake on the outside for a polished finish.

What to Serve Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream With:

For a delightful meal, you can serve this cake alongside a fresh fruit salad, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a steaming cup of coffee. The lightness of the cake pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of fresh fruits, providing a balanced and refreshing dessert experience that everyone will love.

Top Tips for Perfecting Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature to help with proper mixing and aeration.

• Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix your batter, as this can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until combined.

• Use Cake Strips: If you want an even baking, consider using cake strips around your pans to minimize doming.

• Variations: Feel free to add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy kick or a layer of raspberry jam nestled between the cake layers for added fruitiness.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

The Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or gently warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

Now that you have this delicious recipe in hand, it’s time to get baking! Enjoy the smiles and ooohs and aaahs that the Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream promises to bring to your table. Happy baking!

Perfect White Cake with Vanilla Buttercream

This Perfect White Cake is a fluffy, tender masterpiece with a delicate crumb, topped with velvety vanilla buttercream, making it the ideal dessert for any celebration.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Cake, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Cake

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened At room temperature
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large egg whites
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk At room temperature

For the Vanilla Buttercream

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened At room temperature
• 6 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk To adjust consistency of frosting

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans with baking spray or butter.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set them aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
4. Mix in the egg whites one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk in batches, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Baking

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Buttercream

1. In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
3. Add vanilla extract and enough heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.

Assembly

1. Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of vanilla buttercream on top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and repeat.
2. Frost the entire cake on the outside for a polished finish.

Notes

Ensure room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Don’t overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake. Consider using cake strips for even baking. Variations can include adding lemon zest or raspberry jam.