Basic White Cake Recipe
Description: This basic white cake recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional mixing method, guaranteeing flawless results every time. With a slightly off-white hue owing to the inclusion of butter and extract, this cake embodies timeless elegance, making it perfect for any occasion, especially as a classic wedding cake. Finish it off with your favorite classic buttercream frosting for a match made in dessert heaven!
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Yield: 1 nine-inch cake
Ingredients:
- 4 egg whites
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
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Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to ensure it’s ready when you need it.
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Prepare cake pans: Grease two 9-inch x 1 1/2 inch cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Grease the bottom again and flour the entire pan, ensuring easy release after baking.
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Optional step: If using magic cake strips for even baking, prepare them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Mix wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, lightly combine the egg whites, 1/4 cup of milk, and vanilla extract. Use a fork to beat them lightly until well combined.
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Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix on low speed for about 30 seconds to ensure even blending.
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Add butter and milk: Add the softened unsalted butter and the remaining 3/4 cup of milk to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until the dry ingredients are moistened and the mixture starts to come together.
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Beat to develop structure: Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat the mixture for 90 seconds to develop the structure of the cake batter. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture.
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Scrape down sides: Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Incorporate wet ingredients: Gradually add the egg, milk, and vanilla mixture in three batches, beating for 20 seconds after each addition. This gradual incorporation ensures a smooth and homogenous batter.
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Final mix: Once all the wet ingredients have been added, stop the mixer, scrape down the sides of the bowl once more, and give the batter a final mix by hand to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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Pour into pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the surface with a spatula. The pans should be filled halfway to allow for proper rising during baking.
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Bake: Place the cake pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean and the cakes spring back lightly when pressed in the center.
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Cool: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, invert them onto a buttered cooling rack.
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Final cooling: Re-invert the cakes so that the tops are facing upward, and allow them to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap to keep them moist until ready to frost and serve.
This Basic White Cake recipe is a true classic, offering a simple yet elegant treat that’s perfect for any celebration or gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Enjoy the soft, fluffy texture and delicate flavor of this timeless dessert, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite frosting or decorations for a personalized touch! 🍰✨
