Go Back
Homemade Yellow Cake photo
Print Recipe Save it for later

Yellow Cake

This Yellow Cake is a classic! With its buttery flavor and moist crumb, it's perfect for any celebration.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups cake flour provides a tender crumb
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder ensures a light and fluffy texture
  • 1 teaspoon salt balances the sweetness
  • 1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature, adds richness
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar sweetens the cake
  • 1/3 cup grapeseed oil keeps the cake moist
  • 5 large eggs at room temperature, binds the ingredients
  • 2 large egg yolks at room temperature, enhances color and moisture
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract provides a classic flavor
  • 1 teaspoon butter extract amplifies the buttery taste
  • 1 cup sour cream at room temperature, contributes to moisture

For the Frosting:

  • 2 cups unsalted butter slightly cold, forms the base of the frosting
  • 5 cups confectioner's sugar measured then sifted, sweetens and thickens the frosting
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract adds flavor to the frosting
  • 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate addition
  • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream adds creaminess to the frosting
  • 1 pinch salt balances the sweetness

Instructions

Build Yellow Cake Step by Step

  • Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal later.
  • Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
  • Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and grapeseed oil together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
  • Step 4: Add the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and butter extracts until fully combined.
  • Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
  • Step 6: Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
  • Step 7: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  • Step 8: In a large bowl, beat the slightly cold unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the sifted confectioner's sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add the heavy whipping cream until reaching your desired consistency.
  • Step 9: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with chocolate chips if desired.
  • Step 10: Slice into the cake and serve. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures that make this yellow cake a favorite!

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric Mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • 9-inch round cake pans
  • Parchment Paper
  • Cooling rack

Notes

  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier twist.