If you’ve ever dreamed of baking a cake that tastes like it came from a classic bakery but made entirely at home, then this White Cake From Scratch Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Its tender crumb, delicate vanilla flavor, and perfect balance of sweetness make it an absolutely stunning canvas for any celebration or simple treat. Plus, making it from scratch means no shortcuts, just pure, homemade goodness that you’ll be proud to share with everyone you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To bake this White Cake From Scratch Recipe, you only need a handful of pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting the cake’s moist texture, rich flavor, and beautiful golden color.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise light and fluffy.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, contributing to a velvety texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.
- Large egg whites: Provide structure and lighten the batter without any heaviness.
- Pure vanilla extract: Delivers that warm, classic vanilla flavor that fills your kitchen with comfort.
- Whole milk: Makes the cake moist and soft, blending everything together smoothly.
How to Make White Cake From Scratch Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans thoroughly and lightly dust with flour or simply line them with parchment paper. This step is vital to ensure the cakes come out smoothly and keep their beautiful shape while baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This dry mix ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and salt, which guarantees your cake rises evenly and tastes balanced throughout.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This process incorporates air into your batter, which is key for creating that tender crumb everyone loves.
Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Vanilla
Gradually add the room temperature egg whites one at a time into the creamed butter-sugar mix, beating well after each addition. Once combined, pour in the pure vanilla extract. This will elevate the flavor while maintaining the cake’s delicate texture.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Milk
Alternately add the dry ingredients and whole milk to the batter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed and stop as soon as the batter looks smooth and all components are incorporated. Overmixing here can make the cake dense, so gentle is the way to go!
Step 6: Divide Batter and Bake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the cake springs back when lightly pressed.
Step 7: Cool Before Frosting
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents soggy bottoms and gives you the perfect base to add your favorite frosting or filling.
How to Serve White Cake From Scratch Recipe
Garnishes
White cake is such a versatile base that garnishes can truly transform it. Fresh berries, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar bring fresh, colorful accents. For a festive touch, consider sprinkles or toasted coconut atop a creamy frosting.
Side Dishes
This White Cake From Scratch Recipe pairs delightfully with fruity sides like mixed berry compote or a tangy lemon curd. For a richer accompaniment, a scoop of vanilla or berry ice cream adds an indulgent contrast to the lightness of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond traditional layers—try a semi-naked cake to showcase those golden crumb edges or cut the cake into petite squares to serve as finger sandwiches during tea time. Even stacking cupcakes made from this batter creates a charming presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps your cake moist and fresh-tasting, perfect for whenever cravings strike.
Freezing
The White Cake From Scratch Recipe freezes beautifully. Whether as whole layers or sliced into portions, wrap pieces in plastic wrap, then foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to two months, making dessert prep seamless for busy days.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen cake at its best, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you want a just-baked warmth, briefly warm slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven wrapped in foil. This revives a freshly baked experience with ease.
FAQs
Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg whites?
Using just egg whites keeps the cake light and white, which is key for this recipe. Whole eggs would add a yellow tint and denser texture, but the cake would still be delicious—just a little different.
Why is it important to alternate adding dry ingredients and milk?
Alternating helps keep the batter from curdling and ensures everything mixes smoothly. It gently incorporates moisture and dry components evenly, preventing lumps and overmixing.
Can I substitute the butter for oil?
Butter is preferred here for flavor and texture, but you can use a neutral oil if needed. Just remember that oil-based cakes tend to be a bit denser and less fluffy, so the end result might vary.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine, use a flax egg or aquafaba in place of egg whites, and swap whole milk with almond or oat milk. It won’t be a pure white cake but will be delicious in its own right.
What type of frosting pairs best with the White Cake From Scratch Recipe?
Classic buttercream or cream cheese frosting complement this cake beautifully. For a lighter option, whipped cream with fresh fruit is divine and lets the cake’s flavor shine through.
Final Thoughts
This White Cake From Scratch Recipe is truly a joy to bake and savor. Its simple ingredients come together in a way that feels just a little bit special, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve a homemade treat. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and enjoy every delightful bite as much as I do!
Print
White Cake From Scratch Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic White Cake from Scratch is a light, fluffy, and tender cake perfect for any special occasion or celebration. Made with simple pantry ingredients and fresh egg whites, it offers a subtle sweetness and delicate vanilla flavor, ideal for pairing with your favorite frosting or enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy cake release after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer on medium speed, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, usually about 2 to 3 minutes. This step incorporates air to help the cake rise.
- Add Egg Whites and Vanilla: Gradually beat in the egg whites, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the pure vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a fragrant vanilla aroma.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk: Alternately add the dry ingredients and whole milk into the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake.
- Divide Batter: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops for an even surface to bake.
- Bake: Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
Notes
- Make sure your egg whites and milk are at room temperature to ensure even mixing and better cake texture.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
- You can substitute whole milk with buttermilk for a slightly tangier flavor and moister crumb.
- This cake is perfect for layering and decorating with any frosting such as buttercream, cream cheese, or whipped cream.
