Description
Experience the timeless charm of a homemade yellow cake that pairs a sun-kissed, buttery crumb with a luscious chocolate frosting. This recipe uses whipped egg whites for a light, airy texture that remains sturdy enough for any festive occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cake flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 3 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans, lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
- Whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- Beat softened butter and granulated sugar on high for 3 minutes until pale, then add egg yolks and vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour.
- Whip 2 egg whites and cream of tartar to stiff peaks in a separate bowl, then gently fold into the batter.
- Divide batter between pans and bake for 27 to 31 minutes, tenting with foil at 18 minutes; cool completely on a wire rack.
- Beat frosting ingredients (butter, cocoa, sugar, cream, salt, and vanilla) until smooth and luscious.
- Level the cake tops with a serrated knife, stack with a layer of frosting, and frost the exterior with rustic swirls.
Notes
To ensure the most tender crumb, avoid over-mixing the batter once the flour is added. Using room temperature buttermilk and eggs will prevent the batter from breaking and ensure a smooth emulsification. If your kitchen is warm, chill the cake layers for 20 minutes before frosting to make the assembly process easier.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American