Basic White Cake Recipe: Effortless Elegance in Every Slice

A basic white cake is a classic, fluffy, and delightful dessert that’s perfect for any celebration or simply satisfying a sweet tooth.

Stop everything! You’ve just found the ultimate white cake recipe, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or simply satisfying that cake craving. With easy instructions and a sprinkle of fun, you’re moments away from baking magic. Ready? Let’s unleash your inner cake wizard!

Basic White Cake Recipe

basic white cake recipe

This Basic White Cake is the Jane Austen of cakes — classic, timeless, and a bit romantic. It’s versatile enough to stand alone or be dressed up with your favorite frosting. Perfect for birthdays, parties, or a Tuesday when you just need a little cake therapy.

  • Cooking method: Baking
  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 30-35 minutes
  • Cuisine type: American

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/4 cups whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures they play nice together in the batter.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the milk and vanilla extract. More vanilla if you’re feeling fancy.
  4. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy but not ready to join a boy band — about 30 seconds.
  5. Add the sugar, butter, and oil to the egg whites. Beat until light and fluffy, around 2-3 minutes. Think clouds, but delicious.
  6. Alternately add the flour mixture and milk mixture to the egg whites, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. No overzealous stirring!
  7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula if you’re feeling artistic.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Not semi-clean. Clean.
  9. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience, grasshopper.

Suggestions

  • Alternative Ingredients: Swap whole milk with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Garnishing Options: Add fresh berries, whipped cream, or a decadent chocolate ganache. Maybe even sprinkles if you dare.
  • Cooking Tips: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. Mother Nature approves.

More Ideas