Grandma'S White Cake
A classic white cake featuring light, fluffy texture and delicate vanilla flavor, perfect for celebrations or any occasion that calls for a timeless dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla and egg whites, beating well after each addition.
- Sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt (if not already in the flour).
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared cake pan.
- Bake in preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow cake to cool before frosting or serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your shortening is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar. If you need a substitute, you can use unsalted butter instead of shortening. To enhance flavor, consider adding a touch of almond extract along with vanilla. Make sure to sift your flour to avoid lumps and create a lighter cake texture. This cake works well with a variety of frostings or can be served plain.
Serving Suggestions
This white cake is perfect for celebrations and pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a fruit compote, making it a delightful dessert for any occasion. Consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. For a fun twist, try topping it with a layer of frosting from different recipes, like Kathy's French Bread, for a unique flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it, but be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy at room temperature for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S White Cake contains roughly 442 calories, with 4g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1222mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Yes, you can use whole eggs instead of just egg whites, but the texture of the cake may be denser and richer. Using only egg whites helps create a lighter and fluffier cake. If you choose to use whole eggs, consider reducing the milk slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.
What can I substitute for skim milk?
You can substitute skim milk with any milk you prefer, such as whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk. If using a non-dairy milk, ensure it is unsweetened to avoid altering the sweetness of the cake. You can also use buttermilk for a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Additionally, the edges of the cake will start to pull away from the sides of the pan. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overbaking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).