Description
This Luscious White Velvet Cake is a delightful twist on the classic red velvet but in a pristine white form. With its tender crumb and creamy vanilla-almond frosting, this cake offers a light yet rich dessert perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgence. The combination of egg whites and vegetable oil creates a moist texture, while the subtle almond extract adds a unique flavor dimension.
Ingredients
Scale
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 prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt to ensure the cake batter is smooth and lump-free.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and vegetable oil together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring proper incorporation for a moist cake.
- Add Egg Whites: Add the 6 large egg whites one at a time to the butter and oil mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated, which helps achieve a light texture.
- Flavoring: Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and white vinegar; the vinegar helps to tenderize the cake and enhances the flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can make the cake dense.
- Prepare Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops evenly with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool the Cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: While the cakes cool, beat the softened butter in a large bowl using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy to form the base of the frosting.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition to avoid lumps and create a fluffy texture.
- Flavor and Adjust Consistency: Add the vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat the frosting until light and fluffy. Add more milk or cream if needed to achieve spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting evenly over the top.
- Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer gently to maintain structure.
- Frost Entire Cake: Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake smoothly, creating a professional finish.
- Decorate: Add desired decorations such as sprinkles, edible flowers, or other cake toppers to personalize your cake.
- Serve: Slice and serve your delicious Luscious White Velvet Cake, enjoying its tender crumb and rich, creamy frosting.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing.
- You can substitute almond extract with additional vanilla extract if preferred.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter which can cause a dense cake texture.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- This cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.