White Layer Cake
A classic white layer cake featuring tender, fluffy layers with a delicate vanilla flavor. Perfect for celebrations or special occasions, this cake offers a light sweetness and smooth texture that pairs beautifully with frosting or fresh fruit. Suitable for all ages and versatile for various toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Sift the white flour with baking powder and salt.
- Add the sifted dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fold in the well-beaten egg whites gently until just incorporated.
- Pour the batter into well-greased and floured layer pans.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, ensure that your egg whites are at room temperature before beating; this will help them whip up fluffier. If you don't have Crisco, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute, but it may affect the cake's texture. Consider adding a hint of almond extract for added flavor, or experiment with cake flour for a softer crumb.
Serving Suggestions
This white layer cake is perfect for celebrations and pairs beautifully with a variety of frostings, such as cream cheese or chocolate ganache. Serve alongside Kathleen'S Favorite Mashed Potatoes for a well-rounded meal, or enjoy it with fresh berries for a light dessert option. It can also be layered with fruit or jam for added flavor.
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 for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Layer Cake contains roughly 173 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 604mg per serving (26% 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 make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the layers a day in advance. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each layer in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Just frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for best results.
What can I use instead of milk in this recipe?
If you need a dairy-free option, almond milk or coconut milk can be used as substitutes. They will alter the flavor slightly but will still result in a delicious cake. For a richer taste, you can also try using buttermilk.
How can I make this cake more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the batter. A pinch of nutmeg or even a tablespoon of cocoa powder can create a unique twist. Additionally, using high-quality vanilla extract will significantly improve the overall taste.
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).