Imagine biting into a slice of cake that’s as light as a cloud and bursting with a delicate sweetness. That’s the magic of the Heavenly White Snack Cake. This cake isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a sophisticated dinner party, this cake will make everyone fall in love at first bite.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the process of creating this delightful cake from scratch. We’ll cover everything from the preparation and baking to the best ways to serve and enjoy it. By the end, you’ll be ready to bake a cake that’s sure to impress.
Shopping List
- Butter
- Granulated sugar
- Whole milk
- Vanilla extract
- Almond extract (optional)
- Cake flour
- Baking powder
- Egg whites
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-38 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Servings: 9-12 slices
Ingredients
To make this exquisite cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- ½ cup (113g) butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (123g) whole milk, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon pure almond extract (optional)
- 1½ cups (180g) cake flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 4 large (120g or 4 ounces) egg whites, room temperature
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 square baking pan with butter and dust it with flour, or use baking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures your cake comes out perfectly without any hassle.
2. Cream the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand-held mixer to beat the butter on medium speed until creamy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Creaming the butter properly is crucial for a light and fluffy cake.
3. Add Sugar
Gradually incorporate the granulated sugar into the butter, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps to aerate the batter, giving your cake a tender crumb.
4. Combine Milk and Extracts
In a separate container, mix the whole milk with vanilla extract and almond extract (if using). This blend adds a rich aroma and depth to the cake’s flavor, making every bite delightful.
5. Sift Flour and Baking Powder
Sift together the cake flour and baking powder. This step ensures a fine, lump-free texture in your cake, which is essential for a smooth batter.
6. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Alternately add the flour mixture and milk mixture to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Beat at low speed just until blended after each addition to maintain the cake’s airy structure. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle.
7. Whip Egg Whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until stiff peaks form. This means the egg whites will hold their shape when the beaters are lifted. Gently fold these into the batter to add volume and lightness to the cake. This step is key to achieving that heavenly texture.
8. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes.
9. Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then, remove it from the pan and let it cool completely. For an added touch of sweetness, cover the cake with white frosting. This step is optional, but it adds a beautiful finish to your cake.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect White Snack Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients, especially butter and eggs, ensures a smoother batter and a more even bake. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle, leading to uneven textures.
- Properly Creaming the Butter and Sugar
This step is crucial. Beating the butter and sugar together creates tiny air pockets that expand during baking, giving the cake its light and airy texture.
- Sifting Dry Ingredients
Sifting helps to incorporate air into the flour and baking powder, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step helps avoid lumps and ensures a smooth, consistent texture.
- Folding in Egg Whites
When folding in the egg whites, do so gently. This helps to maintain the volume and lightness that they add to the batter. Use a spatula and fold in a motion that cuts through the middle of the batter, then along the sides, repeating until fully incorporated.
- Avoid Overmixing
Once you start combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake.
- Checking for Doneness
Oven temperatures can vary, so check your cake a few minutes before the end of the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Berry Burst: Gently fold in a cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries before baking.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in a half-cup of finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic White Frosting: A simple white frosting made with powdered sugar, butter, and a touch of milk is perfect for this cake. It adds sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavor of the cake.
- Fresh Fruit: Top the cake with fresh berries or a fruit compote. The tartness of the fruit pairs beautifully with the sweet, fluffy cake.
- Ice Cream: Serve slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Cake flour gives a finer, more tender crumb. If using all-purpose flour, use 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour per cup of cake flour.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze the cake (unfrosted) for up to three months. Just thaw it at room temperature before serving.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
You can omit it or replace it with an equal amount of additional vanilla extract. The almond extract adds a subtle, nutty flavor, but the cake will still be delicious without it.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend that substitutes 1:1 for regular flour. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk. The results will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
The Heavenly White Snack Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that’s sure to delight anyone who tries it. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake is a perfect choice. Its light, fluffy texture and delicate flavor make it a timeless classic.
By following this recipe and the tips provided, you’ll be able to create a cake that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a cake that’s truly heavenly.
