Classic Yellow Cake Recipe

This Classic Yellow Cake is a timeless dessert with a moist, tender crumb, perfect for any occasion. The combination of butter, oil, and sour cream creates a rich flavor and velvety texture, while the buttermilk adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness. Topped with a smooth cream cheese chocolate frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser for birthdays, celebrations, or just because!

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Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups (285g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (118 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 large egg yolks, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120g) full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
• 2 ½ cups (350g) all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 teaspoons (7.5g) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon (4g) baking soda
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 ⅓ cups (315ml) buttermilk, at room temperature

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold
• 6 ounces cream cheese, cold
• ½ cup (55g) cocoa powder
• 4 ½ cups (585g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk or heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) pure vanilla extract
• Sprinkles of choice, for topping

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9-inch by 13-inch pan and set it aside.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, vegetable oil, melted butter, eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
• Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is well incorporated and slightly lighter in color.
• Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed, ensuring the eggs and oil are thoroughly mixed.
• Mix in the sour cream until smooth.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Alternate adding half of the dry ingredients and half of the buttermilk to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
• Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients and buttermilk, and stir until combined. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides and ensure everything is mixed evenly.

4. Bake the Cake:

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
• Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.

5. Make the Frosting:

• While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by beating the cold butter and cream cheese together until creamy.
• Add the cocoa powder and mix until smooth.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low until incorporated. Increase speed to medium and mix until fluffy.
• Add the milk (or cream) and vanilla extract and beat until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

6. Frost and Decorate:

• Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
• Add sprinkles if desired for an extra festive touch!

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Tips for Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs, sour cream, and buttermilk are at room temperature to ensure the batter blends smoothly and the cake bakes evenly.
• Sifting the Flour: Sifting the flour is key to avoiding lumps and ensuring a tender crumb.
• Cold Butter & Cream Cheese for Frosting: Using cold butter and cream cheese will give your frosting a thick, stable texture—perfect for spreading on the cake.
• Check for Doneness: Be careful not to overbake the cake. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.

This Classic Yellow Cake is the ultimate go-to for simple yet delicious baking. The moist cake paired with creamy chocolate frosting is a combination that never fails to impress!