Ina Garten White Cake Recipe

Ina Garten’s White Cake is a classic dessert known for its light, tender crumb and elegant flavor. Perfect for celebrations, this cake can be paired with a variety of frostings and fillings to suit any occasion. Its simplicity and richness make it a go-to recipe for weddings, birthdays, or even casual gatherings.

What is Ina Garten White Cake?

Ina Garten’s White Cake is a traditional vanilla-flavored cake made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and egg whites to create a fluffy and moist texture. It’s a versatile base for numerous desserts, allowing you to customize it with your favorite flavors and decorations.

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• Ina Garten Pineapple Upside Down Cake
• Ina Garten Cowboy Cookies
• Barefoot Contessa Veal Piccata

Reasons to Try Ina Garten White Cake

• Light and fluffy texture: Achieved through whipped egg whites and careful mixing.
• Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for celebrations or everyday indulgence.
• Customizable: Pair with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or fruit fillings.
• Easy to make: Straightforward instructions for a foolproof result.
• Timeless elegance: A dessert that’s both classic and versatile.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten White Cake

For the cake:

• All-purpose flour: 2 3/4 cups.
• Baking powder: 1 tablespoon.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon.
• Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened.
• Granulated sugar: 2 cups.
• Egg whites: 6 large, at room temperature.
• Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons.
• Whole milk: 1 cup, at room temperature.

For the frosting (optional):

• Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened.
• Powdered sugar: 4 cups, sifted.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon.
• Heavy cream: 2–3 tablespoons, to adjust consistency.

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten White Cake

Step 1: Preheat the oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the butter and sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Add egg whites and vanilla

• Gradually add the egg whites, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Incorporate dry ingredients and milk

• Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Pour into pans

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake the cake

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the frosting (optional)

• Beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Step 9: Assemble the cake

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides. Decorate as desired.

Step 10: Serve and enjoy

• Slice the cake and serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten White Cake

• Fruit fillings: Add layers of strawberry or raspberry jam for a fruity twist.
• Cream cheese frosting: Pairs wonderfully with the cake’s light flavor.
• Fresh berries: Serve alongside for a refreshing complement.
• Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing for a truly indulgent dessert.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten White Cake

• Use room-temperature ingredients: Ensures smooth mixing and even baking.
• Whip the egg whites properly: This adds volume and lightness to the cake.
• Do not overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined.
• Cool completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting.
• Store properly: Keep the cake covered to maintain its moist texture.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten White Cake

• Lemon white cake: Add 2 teaspoons of lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter.
• Almond-flavored cake: Substitute half the vanilla extract with almond extract.
• Coconut white cake: Fold in 1/2 cup shredded coconut and use coconut milk instead of whole milk.
• Chocolate swirl: Swirl melted chocolate into the batter before baking for a marbled effect.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten White Cake

• Room temperature: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Extend freshness by refrigerating for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cake layers in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

FAQs

How do I keep the white cake from drying out?

To keep the white cake moist, ensure you don’t overbake it. Use room-temperature ingredients, and consider brushing the cake layers with simple syrup before frosting to lock in moisture.

Can I make a white cake without a stand mixer?

Yes, white cake can be made using a hand mixer or by whisking manually. Be sure to mix thoroughly but avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture.

What frosting pairs best with white cake?

Buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream are excellent options for white cake. For a fruity touch, add a layer of berry jam or lemon curd between the layers.

Can I freeze white cake layers for later use?

Yes, white cake layers can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s White Cake is a versatile and timeless dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. With its tender crumb and subtle vanilla flavor, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with various frostings and fillings. Try this recipe for an elegant treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress!

More Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Chocolate Orange Cake
• Ina Garten Pecan Sandies
• Ina Garten Mandel Bread
• Ina Garten Banana Bread

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