Name: Best White Cake Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 5 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups plus 2 tbsp (300g) all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¾ teaspoon salt; ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened; 3 tablespoon (45ml) sunflower oil (or canola or vegetable oil); 1 ⅓ cups (265g) granulated sugar; 4 large egg whites, room temperature; 2 teaspoon (10ml) pure vanilla extract; ½ cup (120ml) full fat sour cream, room temperature; ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk, room temperature; 1 recipe of Vanilla Whipped Ganache Frosting (see separate recipe)

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If you’re searching for a truly unforgettable dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside, you’ve just found it with the Best White Cake Recipe. This cake boasts a delicate crumb, beautifully tender texture, and a flavor that’s pure, classic, and comforting. The subtle blend of vanilla, a hint of tang from sour cream, and the perfect balance of moisture make it a fantastic canvas for any frosting or celebration. Whether it’s for a birthday, a special occasion, or just a treat to brighten your day, this white cake never fails to impress with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eight glass bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each containing a different ingredient. From the top left, there is a large bowl filled with beige flour. Next to it on the right is a bowl filled with white sugar crystals. Below the flour is a small pitcher with pale cream liquid. In the center is a bowl of clear yellow oil with a smooth texture. Next to the sugar is a bowl filled with thick white sour cream. Below the sour cream is a small bowl with white baking powder or baking soda. To the left of the baking powder is another bowl with small cubes of pale yellow butter. Below the bowl of butter is a small bottle filled with dark brown vanilla extract. The bowls are neatly spaced and the overall setting is bright and clean, with a clear view of each ingredient’s texture and color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe is wonderfully simple, relying on just the right essentials each chosen for their unique role in creating the perfect cake—from tender crumb to golden crust and just the right moistness. These uncomplicated ingredients come together harmoniously to deliver every element you love in a classic white cake.

2 cups plus 2 tbsp (300g) all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure and softness.
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder: Effortlessly lifts the cake for a light texture.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps achieve that fine crumb and perfect rise.
¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and savory notes, balancing flavors.
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened: Gives a rich buttery flavor and moistness.
3 tablespoon (45ml) sunflower oil: Adds extra tenderness and moist crumb without heaviness.
1 ⅓ cups (265g) granulated sugar: Sweetens perfectly while contributing to softness.
4 large egg whites at room temperature: Provide lift and structure while keeping the cake light.
2 teaspoon (10ml) pure vanilla extract: The key flavoring that brings warmth and depth.
½ cup (120ml) full fat sour cream, at room temperature: Adds tang and moisture for a luscious crumb.
¾ cup (180ml) whole milk, at room temperature: Balances the batter’s consistency for tender, fluffy cake layers.
Vanilla Whipped Ganache Frosting: The crowning glory that gives a smooth, creamy finish overflowing with vanilla goodness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Best White Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans lightly, then dust them with flour to prevent sticking. For the best removal later, line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper rounds. This extra step ensures your cake layers come out flawless and ready for decorating.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a large mixing bowl. Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening agents—this careful blending prevents uneven rising and large air pockets, guaranteeing that perfect crumb texture that everyone loves in the Best White Cake Recipe.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar

In a separate large bowl or stand mixer, blend the softened butter, sunflower oil, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed. Keep mixing for around 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture turns pale, light, and fluffy. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through to ensure every bit is incorporated evenly. This step builds the base for a wonderfully tender, airy cake.

Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Sour Cream

Add the egg whites two at a time, mixing each addition for 1 to 2 minutes until fully combined. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl again to avoid any unmixed pockets. Then gently fold in the sour cream, which introduces moisture and a slight tang that is key for this cake’s irresistible depth of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Carefully

Now reduce mixer speed to low. Add half of the dry ingredient mixture to the wet batter followed by half of the whole milk, mixing just until combined. Repeat with the remaining flour and milk, finishing with the leftover flour. Take your time, scraping down the bowl frequently—over-mixing can toughen the cake, while under-mixing leads to uneven texture. The goal is smooth, even batter ready to rise beautifully.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans—around 600 grams per pan. Spread the batter smoothly with a spatula and gently tap the pans on your counter to release any trapped air bubbles. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cakes turn evenly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start smelling delightfully divine!

Step 7: Frost and Assemble

Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. Use your favorite recipe for Vanilla Whipped Ganache Frosting, spooning about a cup onto the first layer. Then carefully stack the second layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. This luscious frosting adds a dreamy, creamy finish that perfectly complements the delicate crumb of the Best White Cake Recipe.

How to Serve Best White Cake Recipe

A white round cake is shown with two thick layers of soft, light yellow sponge separated by a smooth, creamy white frosting layer in the middle and covered evenly with the same frosting on the outside. The cake sits on a white cake stand, held by a woman's hand beneath it. The background is a softly blurred white marbled surface. The texture of the cake looks soft and fluffy, while the frosting is creamy and smooth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this classic, consider simple yet elegant garnishes. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries add a brilliant burst of color and a gentle tartness that pairs beautifully with the cake’s vanilla flavor. Alternatively, a light dusting of edible flowers or a sprinkle of toasted coconut can take your presentation to the next level without overpowering the cake’s delicate balance.

Side Dishes

While this white cake shines as the star dessert, pairing it with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream can make your serving even more indulgent. A small side of fruit compote or a drizzle of homemade chocolate sauce also harmonizes nicely, offering textural contrast and added layers of flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking outside the cake box? Slice the Best White Cake Recipe into thin layers and use them to create trifle parfaits in clear glasses, layering cake pieces with whipped ganache and fresh fruit. For a party, consider cutting the cake into mini squares or cupcakes topped with colorful frosting swirls and sprinkles—making each bite as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra cake, storing it properly is essential to maintain its moistness and flavor. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigeration slows down staleness but can dry out the crumb without proper covering.

Freezing

The Best White Cake Recipe freezes beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert. Wrap cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the layers overnight in the fridge before frosting and assembling, ensuring the freshest taste and texture.

Reheating

Though cake is typically enjoyed at room temperature, if you prefer a warm slice, gently warm a piece in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating as it can dry out the cake. A warm slice paired with cold frosting or ice cream can be truly irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg whites in this Best White Cake Recipe?

This recipe relies on egg whites to keep the color and texture light and pure. Using whole eggs will add richness but may darken the cake slightly and impact its delicate crumb. For the classic effect, stick to egg whites as directed.

Is it necessary to use sour cream for this cake?

Sour cream introduces moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly. You can substitute with Greek yogurt if needed, but skipping it altogether may result in a drier, less flavorful cake.

Why is it important to sift the dry ingredients?

Sifting ensures that all leavening agents and the flour are evenly distributed, preventing uneven pockets of rising agents that could cause a bumpy or uneven cake. It also helps to aerate the flour, contributing to a lighter texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

While the Best White Cake Recipe is designed for all-purpose flour, you can experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Expect slight changes in texture; make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binder for best results.

How long does the Vanilla Whipped Ganache Frosting need to chill?

For the perfect consistency, chill the frosting for about 4 hours as noted. This waiting period allows the ganache to thicken enough to whip into a light and fluffy texture that spreads beautifully and holds its shape.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Best White Cake Recipe that keeps people coming back for more. With its perfectly balanced flavors, tender crumb, and luscious frosting, it’s a cake you’ll feel proud serving any time. I can’t wait for you to bake this for your next celebration and experience firsthand how effortlessly this recipe turns an ordinary gathering into a memorable occasion filled with smiles and happy taste buds.

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