A classic yellow cake is a timeless dessert that holds a special place in many people’s hearts. Its tender crumb, rich flavor, and versatility make it a perfect base for various frostings and fillings. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a slice of homemade cake, learning how to make yellow cake from scratch is a rewarding experience.
This recipe provides a straightforward approach to creating a moist, flavorful yellow cake that rivals any store-bought option. By using high-quality ingredients and following a few key steps, you can achieve a cake that is both delicious and visually appealing. With a golden-brown exterior and a soft, buttery interior, this yellow cake will become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients for Yellow Cake
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (optional for extra moisture)
How to Make Yellow Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven reaches the right temperature for even baking.
- Prepare Pans: Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch baking pan. For easier removal, you can also line the pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Combine Flour, Baking Powder, and Salt: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and prevents lumps.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat 1/2 cup (1 stick) of room-temperature unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process incorporates air into the butter, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts
- Add Eggs: Add 3 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated and helps to create a smooth batter.
- Incorporate Vanilla and Almond Extracts: Mix in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract and, if using, 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract. The vanilla and almond extracts add depth of flavor to the cake.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
- Combine with Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in a dense cake.
Step 6: Optional Oil Addition
- Add Vegetable Oil: For an extra moist cake, you can mix in 1/4 cup of vegetable oil. This step is optional but can enhance the cake’s texture.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
- Pour Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans or pour it into the 9×13-inch pan. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes for round pans or 35-40 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Frost
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent the cake from breaking apart.
- Frost as Desired: Once completely cool, frost the cake with your favorite frosting. Buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or a simple glaze are all excellent choices.
About the Main Ingredients
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour is the backbone of this recipe, providing structure to the cake. It contains a moderate amount of protein, which helps the cake rise and hold its shape.
Baking Powder
Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the cake rise. It contains a combination of an acid and a base that reacts when mixed with liquid, creating carbon dioxide bubbles that make the cake light and airy.
Salt
Salt enhances the flavors in the cake and helps to balance the sweetness. It also strengthens the proteins in the flour, contributing to the cake’s structure.
Unsalted Butter
Unsalted butter adds richness and flavor to the cake. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe, ensuring a consistent taste.
Granulated Sugar
Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps to tenderize the cake. It also contributes to the cake’s texture by creating air pockets when creamed with the butter.
Eggs
Eggs act as a binding agent, helping to hold the cake together. They also add moisture and contribute to the cake’s structure and richness.
Whole Milk
Whole milk adds moisture and fat to the cake, contributing to its tender crumb. It also helps to dissolve the sugar and blend the ingredients together.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds a pleasant flavor that complements the cake’s sweetness. It’s a key ingredient in many cake recipes, enhancing the overall taste.
Almond Extract (Optional)
Almond extract provides a subtle nutty flavor that pairs well with vanilla. It’s optional but adds an extra layer of depth to the cake.
Vegetable Oil (Optional)
Vegetable oil can be added for extra moisture. It helps keep the cake soft and tender, especially if you prefer a slightly denser texture.
Making a yellow cake from scratch is a simple yet rewarding process that results in a classic, delicious dessert. By following this recipe and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a cake that is both moist and flavorful. Perfect for any occasion, this yellow cake can be customized with your favorite frostings and fillings to suit your taste. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful cake with friends and family!
