Yellow Velvet Cake

Experience the delightful texture and flavor of Yellow Velvet Cake, a soft and moist dessert layered with rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any celebration, this cake will impress with its vibrant color and taste.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups cake flour
• 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, separated
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Yellow food coloring

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
6. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter.
7. Add yellow food coloring until the desired shade is reached, mixing evenly.
8. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and cool completely on wire racks.
11. For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
12. To assemble, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the cake, then repeat with the remaining layers.
13. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
14. Decorate as desired and enjoy your Yellow Velvet Cake!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 slices. The total time required is about 2 hours, including 30 minutes of prep, 25-30 minutes of baking, and 1 hour for cooling.

Variations

• Flavor Variations: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a citrus twist.
• Frosting Variations: Substitute cream cheese frosting with whipped cream or buttercream.
• Layer Variations: Add layers of fruit preserves or fresh fruit between the cake layers for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature; no reheating is needed.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
   Yes, but the texture may be less tender.
2. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
   You can use milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake the cakes in advance and frost them the day you serve.
4. How do I achieve a vibrant yellow color?
   Gradually add food coloring until you reach your desired shade.
5. What’s the best way to frost the cake?
   Use an offset spatula for even spreading and a smooth finish.
6. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the frosting?
   Yes, but it may affect the texture slightly.
7. Is there a gluten-free option?
   Yes, you can use a gluten-free cake flour blend.
8. How should I store the cake?
   Keep it covered in the refrigerator for freshness.
9. Can I add chocolate to the frosting?
   Yes, mixing in cocoa powder can create a chocolate cream cheese frosting.
10. What is the best way to serve this cake?
    Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh fruit if desired.

Conclusion

This Yellow Velvet Cake, adorned with creamy frosting, is a delightful treat that promises to brighten any occasion. Its soft, velvety texture paired with the tangy sweetness of cream cheese frosting makes it a must-try for cake lovers everywhere. Enjoy each delicious slice!

Print