Heavenly White Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large egg whites, room temperature
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
• 1/4 cup sour cream, room temperature (optional, for extra moisture)

For Frosting (Optional):

• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Prepare the Pans:

• Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. Beat the Butter and Sugar:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Vanilla

1. Add Egg Whites:

• Add the egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition. This will help the cake stay light and fluffy.

1. Add Vanilla Extract:

• Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Alternate Adding Milk and Dry Ingredients:

• With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk and sour cream (if using), starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

1. Pour Batter into Pans:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.

1. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

1. Cool:

• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Make the Frosting (Optional)

1. Beat Butter and Sugar:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low until combined.

1. Add Vanilla and Cream:

• Beat in the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of cream. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of cream to reach the desired consistency.

Step 8: Assemble and Frost the Cake

1. Assemble:

• Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting over the top.

1. Top with Second Layer:

• Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

1. Decorate (Optional):

• You can decorate the cake with sprinkles, fresh fruit, or other toppings of your choice.

Step 9: Serve

• Slice and enjoy your Heavenly White Cake! It’s soft, light, and perfect for any celebration.

This cake is versatile and pairs well with almost any frosting or filling, from classic buttercream to fresh fruit compotes.