This Moist White Velvet Cake is a truly decadent treat that delivers on both flavor and texture. With its light, airy crumb and a soft, delicate flavor, it is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself to a homemade dessert. This cake is sure to be the star of your dessert table, with its beautifully smooth texture and rich taste that everyone will love. The combination of buttermilk, sour cream, and egg whites creates a lightness that balances perfectly with its sweetness. And, while the cake is simple to prepare, its elegance will make it feel like a gourmet creation. Whether served on its own or as part of a layered cake with your favorite frosting, this White Velvet Cake is a guaranteed hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons you’ll fall in love with this Moist White Velvet Cake. First and foremost, the texture. The combination of cake flour and egg whites creates a soft, velvety crumb that is impossible to resist. The subtle sweetness, enhanced by the richness of sour cream and buttermilk, gives this cake a luxurious taste without being overly sweet. It’s the perfect base for any frosting, making it an incredibly versatile recipe. Whether you’re decorating it for a birthday, a wedding, or just enjoying a simple slice with tea, this cake stands out for its versatility and reliability. Plus, it’s easy to make, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that even novice bakers can handle.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Cake flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Buttermilk
- Sour cream
- Egg whites
Variations
While this Moist White Velvet Cake is delightful as it is, there are plenty of ways to customize it. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Frosting Choices: You can pair this cake with a wide variety of frostings, such as buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even whipped cream. For a richer flavor, try pairing it with chocolate ganache or a tangy lemon frosting.
- Add Fruit: You can fold fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add lemon zest for a citrusy lift, or a teaspoon of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
- Layered Cake: Consider making this into a multi-layered cake for extra elegance and drama, or even turning it into cupcakes for easy individual servings.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cake doesn’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process helps to incorporate air into the batter, making the cake light and tender. Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 4: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in the Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter. This step helps create the cake’s light, airy texture.
Step 6: Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This ensures better incorporation and a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Soft Peaks for Egg Whites: When beating the egg whites, be sure they reach stiff peaks, but avoid over-beating them, which can cause the cake to be dry.
- Proper Cooling: Always allow the cakes to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a rack. This helps the cakes set without falling apart.
How to Serve
This Moist White Velvet Cake is perfect on its own, but it can also be served with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or your favorite frosting. For a more elegant presentation, you can decorate the cake with flowers, fresh berries, or even edible gold leaf. If serving for a special occasion, consider making a layered cake and adding colorful frosting between the layers for a festive touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, place the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
If you want to warm up the cake, place it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at a low temperature, around 250°F (120°C), for 10-15 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
It’s best to use cake flour for this recipe, as it creates a lighter texture. However, if you don’t have cake flour, you can substitute with a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
2. Can I substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a slightly tangier flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?
Yes, simply divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 15-20 minutes at the same temperature.
4. Can I use egg substitutes?
Yes, you can use egg replacers like aquafaba (chickpea water) or flaxseed meal mixed with water for an egg-free version.
5. Can I use a different flavor of extract?
You can experiment with different extracts, such as almond, lemon, or coconut, to vary the flavor profile.
6. How can I make the cake more moist?
Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, and don’t overmix the batter. The combination of buttermilk and sour cream also adds moisture.
7. How long will this cake stay fresh?
This cake can stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 5 days if refrigerated.
8. Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
You can use regular sugar, but brown sugar adds a slight richness and moisture to the cake.
9. Can I make this cake in advance for a party?
Yes, you can bake the cake up to 1 day ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.
10. Can I decorate this cake?
Absolutely! This cake serves as a wonderful base for any decorations or frosting you prefer.
Conclusion
This Moist White Velvet Cake is a must-try recipe that combines simplicity with elegance. With its light texture, rich flavor, and versatility, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a special celebration or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress. By following the steps and tips provided, you can create a bakery-quality cake in your own kitchen. Enjoy this delightful treat with friends and family, and don’t forget to experiment with different frostings and toppings to make it your own!
PrintMoist White Velvet Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Moist White Velvet Cake is a rich, soft, and fluffy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of buttermilk and sour cream gives it a tender crumb, while the egg whites ensure it’s light and airy. With a delicate flavor and smooth texture, this cake is a crowd-pleaser, especially when topped with your favorite frosting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 5 large egg whites
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking. - Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. - Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until fully combined, but avoid overmixing. - Prepare the Egg Whites:
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the egg whites into the batter, being gentle to maintain the airy texture. - Bake the Cake:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - Cool the Cakes:
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Top with your favorite frosting such as buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes