Yellow Velvet Cake Recipe

Yellow Velvet Cake is a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cake, characterized by its rich, buttery flavor and velvety texture. This cake stands out with its vibrant yellow hue and offers a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of tanginess from the buttermilk. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a homemade dessert, this Yellow Velvet Cake Recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. 

The moist and tender crumb, coupled with a luscious cream cheese frosting, makes it an irresistible treat. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow Yellow Velvet Cake Recipe and create a masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for more!

Share Personal Experience

I first discovered the joy of baking a Yellow Velvet Cake when I wanted to try something different for my sister’s birthday. The bright color and soft texture were an instant hit. Since then, it has become a family favorite, and every time I bake it, it brings back fond memories of that special day.

Equipment List

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Cake pans (8 or 9-inch round)
• Cooling rack
• Parchment paper
• Cake stand or serving plate

Ingredients List

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Yellow food coloring (as needed)

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for consistency)

Yellow Velvet Cake Recipe – Step by Step Preparation

Step 1:

Heat the Oven and Ready the Pans: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2:

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, sift and mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: 

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4:

Incorporate Eggs: Introduce the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is thoroughly beaten into the batter before adding the next.

Step 5:

Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 6:

Add Vanilla and Color: Stir in the vanilla extract and yellow food coloring until the batter is evenly colored.

Step 7:

Pour and Bake the Batter: Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared pans. Let the cakes bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the middle.

Step 8:

Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9:

Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Slowly blend in the powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract. If needed, add heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.

Step 10:

Construct the Cake: Begin by placing one layer of cake on a cake stand or plate. Smooth a generous amount of frosting over the first layer. Position the second cake layer on top and apply frosting to its top and sides. Decorate as desired.

Tips for Success

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and buttermilk, are at room temperature for the best texture.
2. Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level the flour into your measuring cup to avoid dense cake.
3. Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter just enough to combine ingredients, preventing the cake from becoming overly dense.
4. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
5. Cool Completely: Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Variations

• Lemon Velvet Cake: Add lemon zest and replace some of the buttermilk with lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
• Chocolate Velvet Cake: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolate version.
• Coconut Velvet Cake: Stir in 1 cup of shredded coconut into the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Marble Velvet Cake: Swirl in some chocolate or strawberry batter to create a marble effect.
• Nutty Velvet Cake: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy bite.

Conclusion

This Yellow Velvet Cake Recipe is a delightful and vibrant dessert perfect for any celebration. Its buttery flavor and soft texture, combined with a rich cream cheese frosting, make it a standout treat. Try this recipe, and you’ll surely impress your guests with your baking skills. Happy baking!

FAQs

7. How should I store the Yellow Velvet Cake?

Store the Yellow Velvet Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you have frosted the cake, cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze the cake (either frosted or unfrosted) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

13. How can I make a dairy-free version of Yellow Velvet Cake?

To make a dairy-free Yellow Velvet Cake, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use a dairy-free milk option like almond or soy milk in place of buttermilk, and choose a vegan cream cheese for the frosting. These substitutes can help accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.

20. What are some creative ways to serve Yellow Velvet Cake?

Beyond the traditional cake format, consider serving Yellow Velvet Cake as a trifle layered with lemon curd, whipped cream, and crushed cookies for texture. Alternatively, cube the cake and dip it in chocolate for a fun and indulgent treat.