This Yellow Velvet Cake is a buttery, rich, and tender cake that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s similar to a classic yellow cake but has a velvety soft texture, making it perfect for any special occasion or celebration. Paired with a creamy frosting, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Yellow food coloring (optional, for a brighter color)
- For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4-5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (for desired consistency)
- For Topping (Optional):
- Crushed vanilla wafers or cake crumbs for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal. - Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. - Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. - Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. If using, add a few drops of yellow food coloring for a brighter hue. - Bake the Cake:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and mix until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached. - Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or cake crumbs if desired. - Serve:
Slice and serve this velvety smooth cake with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy!
Additional Tips (Serving & Storage):
- Serving: This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration. Serve it with a sprinkle of extra crumbs or a scoop of ice cream for an added treat.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
FAQs About Yellow Velvet Cake:
- Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers in advance and freeze them for up to a month. Frost the cake just before serving. - Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Buttermilk gives the cake a softer texture, but if you don’t have it, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. - Can I use a different frosting?
Absolutely! You can use buttercream frosting, whipped cream frosting, or even a chocolate frosting for a different flavor combination. - What makes this a “velvet” cake?
The term “velvet” refers to the cake’s soft and tender texture. The combination of buttermilk and gentle mixing helps achieve this light, velvety texture. - Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?
Yes, you can easily turn this recipe into cupcakes. Just reduce the baking time to about 18-20 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.
Conclusion: This Yellow Velvet Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. With its soft, tender crumb and creamy frosting, it’s sure to become a favorite at your next gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake is a delightful treat that everyone will love!
