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Fluffy White Velvet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream

Introduction

Fluffy White Velvet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is a light, tender cake celebrated for its snowy-white crumb and delicate vanilla flavor. Softer than traditional white cake and richer than angel food, white velvet cake melts in your mouth and pairs beautifully with silky vanilla buttercream. It’s a timeless dessert that feels both luxurious and comforting.

Origin

White velvet cake evolved as a variation of classic velvet cakes, emphasizing a pale, refined appearance and a softer crumb. Unlike red velvet, it relies on whipped egg whites and buttermilk for tenderness rather than cocoa. Over time, it became a favorite for elegant celebrations and formal events.

Cultural Significance

Often chosen for weddings, baptisms, and milestone celebrations, white velvet cake symbolizes purity, elegance, and joy. Its neutral color and delicate flavor make it highly versatile, allowing decorators to customize it for any theme or occasion.

Ingredients & Quantity

For the White Velvet Cake

  • 2½ cups cake flour
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
  • 5 large egg whites, room temperature
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream

For the Vanilla Buttercream

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3½–4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Additions

  • Almond extract (½ tsp)
  • Fresh berries between layers
  • White chocolate shavings
  • Raspberry or lemon curd filling
  • Edible pearls or floral decorations

Tips for Success

  1. Use cake flour for the softest crumb.
  2. Whip egg whites gently—do not overbeat.
  3. Keep ingredients at room temperature for smooth batter.
  4. Do not overmix once flour is added.
  5. Chill cake layers before frosting for clean edges.

Instructions

Make the Cake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round pans.
  2. Whisk cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Beat butter until creamy; alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk.
  4. Mix in sour cream and vanilla.
  5. Gently fold in lightly beaten egg whites.
  6. Divide batter evenly and bake for 25–30 minutes.
  7. Cool completely before frosting.

Make the Buttercream

  1. Beat butter until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar.
  3. Add cream, vanilla, and salt; beat until light and spreadable.

Assemble

  • Frost cake layers evenly.
  • Decorate as desired.

Description

This white velvet cake is exceptionally soft, moist, and airy with a fine crumb that feels luxurious on the palate. The vanilla buttercream is smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweet, enhancing the cake without overpowering its delicate flavor.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice)

  • Calories: 420–460 kcal
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Sugar: 38 g

(Values vary by frosting thickness.)

Conclusion

Fluffy White Velvet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is the definition of classic elegance. Its refined texture, balanced sweetness, and stunning appearance make it a go-to cake for life’s most meaningful celebrations.

Recommendation

Serve with:

  • Fresh strawberries or raspberries
  • Champagne or sparkling cider
  • Vanilla bean ice cream
  • Light fruit coulis

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

To enjoy this cake more mindfully:

  • Serve thinner slices
  • Use reduced-sugar buttercream
  • Pair with fresh fruit
  • Save frosting decor for the top rather than thick layers

This cake proves that simple, beautifully made desserts are often the most unforgettable 🤍✨

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