If you have been searching for a show-stopping dessert that combines elegance with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, then the Luscious White Velvet Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. This cake is a delightful celebration of pure whiteness and velvety softness, with every bite offering a perfect balance of buttery richness and sweet creaminess. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or simply craving a cloud-like slice of happiness, this recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this cake comes from a handful of classic, simple ingredients that work flawlessly together. Each one plays a key role, from lending moisture and lightness to adding that subtle vanilla aroma that makes the cake unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and the perfect crumb texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens every bite while aiding in the cake’s fine texture.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb when softened adequately.
- Whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and silky.
- Large egg whites: Contribute to the light, airy texture essential to white velvet cakes.
- Vanilla extract: Imparts a warm, comforting flavor that brings the cake alive.
- Almond extract (optional): Adds a delicate, nutty depth that’s subtle but memorable.
- White vinegar: Reacts with the baking powder to give extra lift and brightness.
- Vegetable oil: Ensures a moist crumb without weighing the cake down.
- Powdered sugar: The sweet base for the frosting’s luscious smoothness.
- Heavy cream or milk: Adjusts frosting consistency for that perfect spreadable texture.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor in the frosting.
How to Make Luscious White Velvet Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for an easy release later. Proper pan prep ensures your Luscious White Velvet Cake Recipe comes out looking flawless.
Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Sifting lightens the mixture, helping to keep the cake tender and airy.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Oil
Beat the unsalted butter and vegetable oil together until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. This combination gives the cake moisture and keeps it incredibly soft.
Step 4: Add Egg Whites
Incorporate the egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual mixing helps create that signature lightness of the cake.
Step 5: Flavor the Batter
Now stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract if you’re using it, and white vinegar. These bring beautiful fragrance and a subtle tang, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding the sifted dry ingredients and whole milk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the cake tough, and we want pure softness.
Step 7: Bake Your Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between your two pans, smoothing the top. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This part smells absolutely heavenly.
Step 8: Cool Before Frosting
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks and let them cool completely. Frosting warm cake can lead to melting or sliding, so patience pays off here!
Step 9: Whip Up the Frosting
Beat softened butter until smooth, then gradually mix in powdered sugar one cup at a time. Add vanilla, a pinch of salt, and heavy cream or milk to get that fluffy, luscious frosting consistency. Adjust as needed to suit your preference.
Step 10: Frost and Assemble
Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread with a generous amount of frosting. Stack the second layer, then cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting. This is where your cake starts to look like a dream come true!
Step 11: Decorate and Enjoy
Finish with your choice of decorations like sprinkles or edible flowers for an elegant touch. Slice into your masterpiece and get ready for a truly indulgent experience.
How to Serve Luscious White Velvet Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Light, pretty garnishes really complement this cake’s pristine look. Edible flowers, silver dragées, or a dusting of powdered sugar add a delicate flourish, making it perfect for celebrations or just treating yourself.
Side Dishes
Pair your cake with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. These sides highlight the cake’s velvety texture and add bright contrasts that awaken the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it as a layered centerpiece at parties or cut into bite-sized squares for a charming dessert table. For added fun, top slices with a drizzle of berry coulis or a sprinkle of toasted nuts. The possibilities for impressing your guests are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cake tightly covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain the freshness and softness that makes this cake so irresistible.
Freezing
You can freeze individual unfrosted cake layers wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then frost and assemble as usual for a stress-free dessert anytime.
Reheating
Since this cake is best enjoyed fresh, avoid reheating. However, if chilled, allow slices to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to bring back that luscious, tender quality.
FAQs
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
The light, airy texture of this cake depends on using only egg whites. Whole eggs would make it denser and change the trademark velvet crumb.
Is white vinegar necessary in this recipe?
Yes, vinegar reacts with the baking powder and enhances the cake’s rise and delicate crumb, while adding a subtle tang that brightens the flavors.
Can I substitute almond extract with another flavor?
Certainly! You can omit it or swap it for a teaspoon of lemon zest or another extract like coconut for a different twist while keeping the integrity of the cake.
How do I make sure my frosting is smooth and creamy?
Be sure your butter is very soft, but not melted, and sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps. Adding cream or milk gradually helps achieve that perfect fluffy consistency.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! With its elegant appearance and scrumptious taste, the Luscious White Velvet Cake Recipe is ideal for birthdays, weddings, or whenever you want to impress with homemade love.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about baking a cake that looks as stunning as it tastes, and this Luscious White Velvet Cake Recipe delivers on every level. Its tender crumb, subtle flavors, and creamy frosting make it a joy to share with loved ones. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this cake as much as I do — it’s really a timeless delight worth keeping in your recipe collection forever.
Print
Luscious White Velvet Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Luscious White Velvet Cake is a tender, moist, and elegant dessert perfect for any celebration. It features a delicate white crumb made with egg whites and a smooth, creamy vanilla buttercream frosting. Subtle almond extract adds a hint of extra flavor, making this cake truly irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 6 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (adjust for consistency)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy cake removal.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and vegetable oil together using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which helps provide a tender crumb.
- Add Egg Whites: Incorporate the six large egg whites one at a time into the butter and oil mixture, beating well after each addition to achieve lightness and volume.
- Flavoring: Stir in the vanilla extract, optional almond extract, and white vinegar. The vinegar reacts with the baking powder to tenderize the cake and enhance its white color.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the whole milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overdeveloping the gluten, which can make the cake dense.
- Pour Batter into Pans: Evenly divide the cake batter between the two prepared 9-inch round cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
- Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes to firm up, then carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cakes cool, beat the softened butter in a large bowl until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
- Add Sugar Gradually: Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, adding one cup at a time and mixing thoroughly after each addition to prevent clumping.
- Flavor and Adjust Consistency: Mix in the vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat the frosting until light and fluffy. Add more cream or milk as needed to achieve spreading consistency.
- Frost the First Layer: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting evenly over the top.
- Add Second Layer: Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosted first layer.
- Frost Entire Cake: Apply the remaining frosting to the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula or knife for a beautiful finish.
- Decorate: Add decorative touches such as sprinkles, edible flowers, or other desired embellishments to enhance the cake’s appearance.
- Serve: Slice the cake and serve to enjoy its tender, velvety texture paired with rich, creamy frosting.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and better texture.
- If almond extract is not desired, simply omit it; the vanilla extract provides plenty of flavor.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a light, tender crumb.
- Ensure cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with non-dairy alternatives and use vegan butter in the frosting.
- Store cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
