Description

This architecturally sound Roblox-inspired cake utilizes a precision reverse-creaming method to produce a dense, velvet-like vanilla sponge designed for sharp-edged carving. It is the perfect structural base for creating pixel-perfect voxel designs that maintain moisture and stability at room temperature.

Ingredients

3 cups cake flour (low protein)
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (65-70°F)
1 1/4 cups whole milk, divided
5 large egg whites
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
Gel food coloring (yellow, blue, and green)
Buttercream frosting (for assembly)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch square pans with parchment paper and grease.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt; mix on low for 30 seconds to distribute leavening agents.
Add the room-temperature butter and half of the milk to the dry ingredients, mixing on low until moistened, then increase to medium and beat for exactly 90 seconds to develop structure.
In a separate container, whisk together the egg whites, vanilla bean paste, and the remaining milk until combined.
With the mixer on low, add the liquid mixture in three separate additions, scraping the bowl thoroughly between each addition to ensure a uniform emulsion.
Divide the batter into three separate bowls and tint them yellow, blue, and green (or leave one neutral) using the gel food coloring.
Pour the batter into the prepared square pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers exactly 205°F in the center.
Allow the layers to cool completely, then level the tops with a serrated knife and stack with 1/4-inch layers of buttercream before chilling and carving.

Notes

To ensure the flattest possible layers, do not over-whisk the egg whites before adding them to the batter; they should be liquid and just barely broken up. Using an instant-read thermometer is the only way to guarantee the specific crumb density needed for square carving, as traditional toothpicks do not account for the specific moisture levels of this reverse-creamed sponge.

Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Reverse-creaming
Cuisine: American