Yellow Cake

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect yellow cake recipe, look no further! This yellow cake is moist, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, it’s a classic that never goes out of style. This recipe yields a cake that is rich yet light, and it’s perfect on its own or dressed up with frosting. Let’s dive into the details of what makes this yellow cake so special!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This yellow cake is not just any dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The combination of cake flour and sour cream contributes to an incredibly moist cake with a tender crumb. The addition of both butter and grapeseed oil provides a rich taste while maintaining a light texture. Plus, the use of egg yolks adds richness and depth to the flavor. And when you top it with a smooth buttercream and chocolate ganache, you create a showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Your Shopping Guide

When preparing to make this delightful yellow cake, here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:

• 3 cups (345 g) cake flour
• 2 teaspoons (8 g) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon (6 g) salt
• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 3/4 cups (350 g) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup (72 g) grapeseed oil
• 5 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon (4.2 g) pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon (4.2 g) butter extract
• 1 cup (240 g) sour cream, at room temperature
• 2 cups (452 g) unsalted butter, slightly cold (for frosting)
• 5 cups (625 g) confectioner’s sugar, measured then sifted
• 1 tablespoon (12 g) pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup (57.75 g) heavy whipping cream
• Pinch of salt

Must-Have Equipment

To ensure your yellow cake turns out perfectly, gather the following equipment:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key.
• Electric Mixer: For creaming butter and sugar together.
• Spatula: For scraping down the sides of the bowl.
• 9-inch Round Cake Pans: To bake the cake layers.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the cakes.
• Offset Spatula: For frosting the cake smoothly.

Cook Yellow Cake Like This

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pans

Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This prevents the cake from sticking and makes for an easy release.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and grapeseed oil with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the large eggs and egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla and butter extracts.

Step 6: Incorporate Sour Cream

Add the sour cream to the butter mixture and mix until fully combined. This will make your cake incredibly moist.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 8: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat the slightly cold unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the confectioner’s sugar, mixing on low speed. Then add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy.

Step 11: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of buttercream on top. Add the second layer, then frost the top and sides of the cake.

Step 12: Make the Chocolate Ganache

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly before pouring over the frosted cake.

Texture-Safe Substitutions

If you’re looking to modify the recipe slightly, consider these substitutions:

• For cake flour: You can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly denser.
• For sour cream: Greek yogurt works well as a substitute and adds a tangy flavor.
• For unsalted butter: You can use salted butter, but reduce the salt in the recipe.
• For grapeseed oil: Any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil will work.

Cook’s Notes

• Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Do not overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
• Feel free to customize the frosting by adding flavors or colors as desired.
• For added decoration, consider garnishing with sprinkles, fresh fruit, or edible flowers.

Prep Ahead & Store

If you’re planning ahead, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. The frosting can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Questions People Ask

Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?

Absolutely! This yellow cake recipe can be easily adapted for cupcakes. Just reduce the baking time to about 18-20 minutes.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out with wet batter, it needs more time.

Can I freeze this yellow cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months.

What is the best way to frost a cake?

Start by applying a thin layer of frosting (often called a crumb coat) to seal in the crumbs. Chill the cake for about 30 minutes, then add a thicker layer of frosting for a smooth finish.

The Takeaway

This yellow cake recipe is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed by everyone. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious cake that will be the star of any gathering. Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or frosted, this yellow cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!