There’s something undeniably comforting about a classic yellow cake. Whether it’s layered with luscious frosting or enjoyed simply with a dusting of powdered sugar, this cake is a staple for celebrations, birthdays, and even just a cozy afternoon treat. Today, I’m excited to share with you what I consider to be The Best Classic Yellow Cake Recipe. With its buttery flavor, tender crumb, and that beautiful golden hue, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home as well.
Reasons to Love The Best Classic Yellow Cake Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this classic yellow cake. Here are just a few:
- Versatile: This cake serves as a perfect base for any celebration, whether you’re making a birthday cake, a simple dessert, or a festive treat.
- Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses basic pantry staples, ensuring you can whip it up whenever a craving strikes.
- Deliciously Moist: The addition of buttermilk makes this cake incredibly moist and tender, while the butter adds richness that’s hard to resist.
- Perfect for Customization: From chocolate frosting to fruity fillings, this cake can be dressed up or down depending on your mood.
What You’ll Gather
Before we dive into the baking process, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (396g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon (2.6g) kosher salt
- 3 teaspoons (12g) baking powder
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (454g) buttermilk
- 2 1/2 teaspoons (11.75g) vanilla extract
What’s in the Gear List
Make sure you have the following equipment to make your baking experience smooth:
- Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing your wet ingredients and a separate bowl for dry ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: A stand or hand mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar easy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
- Cake Pans: Two 9-inch round cake pans, preferably non-stick or greased and lined with parchment paper.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula for folding in the flour and batter.
How to Prepare The Best Classic Yellow Cake Recipe
Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create the best classic yellow cake.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pans
Grease your two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. For added security against sticking, line the bottoms with parchment paper.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Yolks
Add the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 6: Flavor It Up
Finally, stir in the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Frost
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting with your favorite icing.
Make It Fit Your Plan
This classic yellow cake recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some ways to customize it to fit your needs:
- For a chocolate version, substitute 3/4 cup of the flour for cocoa powder.
- Add lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
- Mix in sprinkles for a funfetti cake perfect for birthdays.
- Use different flavored extracts, such as almond or coconut, for unique variations.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This The Best Classic Yellow Cake Recipe is a great base for experimentation. Here are a few notes to keep in mind:
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best creaming results.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added, as this can lead to a dense cake.
- Try using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for an even lighter texture.
- Letting the cake cool completely is crucial before frosting, as warm cake can melt your icing.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
One of the best things about this classic yellow cake is that it freezes beautifully. Here are some tips:
- Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in the freezer.
- Label the wrapping with the date and type of cake for easy identification.
- Thaw the cake layers in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.
Troubleshooting Q&A
Why did my cake sink in the middle?
A sunken middle can occur if the cake is underbaked or if the oven temperature was too low. Always check for doneness with a toothpick before removing from the oven.
My cake came out dry; what went wrong?
Dry cake often results from overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly and keep an eye on the baking time.
How can I make my cake more flavorful?
In addition to vanilla extract, you can enhance flavors with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Adding zest from citrus fruits can also brighten the flavor profile.
What frosting pairs well with this yellow cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a simple chocolate ganache. Choose your favorite or mix it up!
More Recipes You’ll Love
Hungry for More?
If you’re craving more delightful recipes, stay tuned for more delicious treats coming your way! Baking is a wonderful journey filled with sweet moments, and I hope this The Best Classic Yellow Cake Recipe brings joy to your kitchen and your table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake is sure to satisfy. Happy baking!
The Best Classic Yellow Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
- Step 2: Grease your two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
- Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Step 6: Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Step 7: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Step 8: Once baked, cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cake Pans
- Spatula
Notes
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for best results.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added.
- Using cake flour can make for an even lighter texture.
