The Ultimate Yellow Cake Recipe: A Classic, Made Easy
Are you ready to bake the most delicious, moist, and fluffy yellow cake you've ever tasted? This recipe isn't just about following instructions; it's about creating a culinary experience. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring a perfect outcome every time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this timeless classic!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
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For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour – The foundation of our fluffy texture.
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar – For that perfect sweetness and golden hue.
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder – The secret to a light and airy crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Provides additional lift and tenderness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk – Adds moisture and a subtle tang.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water – Creates a wonderfully moist and tender crumb.
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For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – The base for a creamy, delicious frosting.
- 3-4 cups (360-480g) powdered sugar – For the perfect sweetness and smooth consistency.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk – Adjusts the consistency of the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
Follow these easy-to-follow steps for a guaranteed delicious result:
Preparing the Cake Batter:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Thoroughly combining the dry ingredients is crucial for even baking.
- Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Boiling Water: Slowly pour in the boiling water while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin – this is perfectly normal!
- Pour & Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Making the Buttercream Frosting:
- Beat the Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Milk & Vanilla: Add the milk and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Salt: Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Assembling Your Masterpiece:
- Cool Completely: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost & Enjoy: Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer with a generous amount of buttercream frosting. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
Tips for Baking Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients ensures even mixing and baking.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check if the cake is done. If it comes out clean, it's ready!
- Cool Completely: Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Variations & Serving Suggestions:
This recipe is a great base for many variations. Add chocolate chips, nuts, or different extracts to customize the flavor. Serve your delicious yellow cake with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
This ultimate yellow cake recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the baking process and the delicious results! Remember to share your baking creations using #UltimateYellowCake!