White Cake Recipe

All-purpose flour: This is the main dry ingredient that gives the cake its structure.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.

Milk: Adds moisture and helps mix the ingredients smoothly.

Softened butter: Makes the cake rich and adds flavor; it should be soft enough to mix easily.

Egg whites: Provide lightness and help the cake rise without adding extra fat.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that makes the cake fluffy by helping it rise.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and strengthens the cake’s structure.

One of the most helpful steps in this White Cake Recipe is how you add the flour mixture and milk to the batter. This part might seem a little tricky, but if you do it the right way, your cake will turn out soft and light. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by adding a little bit of the flour mixture to your butter and sugar mixture.
2. Then, add some milk right after.
3. Keep going back and forth, adding flour, then milk, then flour again.
4. Make sure you begin and end with the flour mixture.
5. Mix everything just until it’s combined—don’t overmix!

Doing it this way helps the batter stay smooth and fluffy. If you dump all the flour in at once or mix too much, the cake can get tough or dense. The flour has gluten, which makes things stretchy, but too much mixing makes it too stretchy, and that’s not what you want in a soft cake.

When I first tried this, I didn’t pay attention to starting and ending with the flour, and my cake was a little crumbly. After I followed this order, the texture got way better. Also, I like to use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients instead of a mixer at this point. It feels like you’re being extra careful with the batter, and it really helps keep the cake light.

So, take your time adding the flour and milk bit by bit, and mix gently. Your cake will thank you with a perfect crumb and a tender bite!

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with cake flour: Cake flour has a lower protein content, resulting in a lighter and more tender cake texture.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: For a gluten-free option, use a blend specifically designed for baking to maintain similar texture and structure.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar provides a natural sweetness with a slight caramel flavor, though it may darken the cake slightly.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds moisture and a distinct flavor; reduce the milk slightly to balance the added liquid.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps create a tender crumb; it may also react with baking powder for extra rise.

• softened butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a non-dairy alternative that provides a similar texture and moisture to the cake.

• softened butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a subtle coconut flavor and keeps the cake moist, though it may slightly alter the taste.

• egg whites - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, mimics the binding properties of egg whites and is suitable for vegan baking.

• egg whites - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce adds moisture and acts as a binder, though it may slightly change the cake's texture and flavor.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder needed.

• baking powder - Substitute with self-rising flour: If using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder and salt, as it already contains leavening agents.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor profile, though it is more potent, so use less.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique sweetness and flavor; reduce the sugar slightly to account for the added sweetness.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and may offer a slightly different mineral flavor.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used, but adjust the quantity slightly as it has larger crystals and may require more to achieve the same saltiness.

• Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the cake soggy.

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to lock in moisture and keep the cake fresh.

• For short-term storage, place the wrapped cake in an airtight container and store it at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.

• If you need to store the cake for a longer period, place the wrapped cake in the refrigerator. This can extend its freshness for up to a week. Remember to bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

• For freezing, wrap the cake in a layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps to prevent freezer burn.

• Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of its freshness.

• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

• If you have frosted the cake, freeze it uncovered for about an hour to set the frosting before wrapping. This ensures the frosting remains intact and doesn't stick to the wrapping.

• For individual servings, slice the cake before freezing. Wrap each slice separately for easy thawing and serving, perfect for when you crave just a piece of dessert.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Wrap the leftover white cake in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures the cake remains moist and fluffy.

• Use a microwave for a quick fix. Place a slice of white cake on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Check the texture and heat for an additional 5-10 seconds if needed. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the cake rubbery.

• Steam the white cake for a gentle reheating method. Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the cake on a heatproof plate or in a steamer basket above the water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes. This method helps maintain the cake's original texture and moisture.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the white cake inside and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method is great for achieving a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and moist.

• For a stovetop method, use a skillet over low heat. Place the white cake slice in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side. This method is ideal for those who enjoy a slightly toasted texture.

• Oven: Used to bake the cake at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Cake pan: Holds the cake batter while baking, ensuring it takes the desired shape.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine ingredients, such as the dry ingredients in one and the wet ingredients in another.

• Whisk: Helps to evenly mix the dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, and salt.

• Electric mixer: Used to beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, and to incorporate the egg whites smoothly.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, and milk.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt.

• Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

• Toothpick: Used to check the doneness of the cake by inserting it into the center to see if it comes out clean.

• Wire rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly after being removed from the pan.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth process without interruptions.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can save time when beating butter and sugar, and incorporating egg whites efficiently.

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure egg whites and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing to avoid waiting later.

Line the pan: Use parchment paper to line the cake pan for easy removal and less cleanup.