old fashioned yellow cake recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
old fashioned yellow cake recipe
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The Best old fashioned yellow cake recipe

I’ve been making this old-fashioned yellow cake recipe for years, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. The recipe comes from my grandmother, who got it from her mother. It’s a classic American dessert that’s been around for generations, and its simplicity is part of its charm.

The cake is moist and fluffy, with a subtle sweetness that’s not overpowering. The key to this recipe is using buttermilk, which gives the cake a tangy flavor and a tender crumb. I’ve tried making it with regular milk, but it just doesn’t have the same effect.

When I take the cake out of the oven, the aroma that fills the kitchen is heavenly – it’s like a big hug in a pan. My kids love helping me mix the batter, and they always get excited when they see the cake emerge from the oven, golden brown and fragrant. This cake is perfect for any occasion – birthdays, holidays, or just a Tuesday night dessert.

It’s also great for potlucks or family gatherings, as it’s easy to transport and serve. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser: everyone loves the combination of flavors and textures. As an added bonus, this recipe is relatively healthy compared to other desserts – it’s made with wholesome ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and buttermilk.

I feel good serving it to my family because I know they’ll enjoy it without feeling guilty about the calories.

Old Fashioned Yellow Cake

Old Fashioned Yellow Cake

4.6 from 1215 votes

A classic and delicious yellow cake recipe that is moist, tender and full of flavor. This cake is perfect for any occasion and can be customized with your favorite frosting.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole milk

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons whole milk
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, then set it aside.
3In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4Whisk until well mixed and there are no lumps.
5Set the dry ingredients aside for later use.
6In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer.
7Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
8Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
9Add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
10Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
11Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk.
12Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
13Be careful not to overmix.
14Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
15Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
16The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
17Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
18While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting.
19In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
20Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
21Add the milk and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
22If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time.
23If it is too thin, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time.
24Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
25Slice and serve the cake.
26Enjoy your homemade old fashioned yellow cake!

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
9×13 inch baking pan
Oven
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer flavor, use buttermilk instead of milk in the cake batter. You can also add 1/2 cup of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt to the batter for extra moisture and tenderness.

This old fashioned yellow cake recipe is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. It is a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it is a family gathering, a potluck, or a simple weekday treat. The cake’s moist texture, rich flavor, and versatility make it a crowd-pleaser, and I am sure it will become a favorite in your home too.

You can serve it as is, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or with a variety of frostings or toppings. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also serve it with fresh fruit or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

The possibilities are endless. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy this classic recipe and the memories it brings. Happy baking.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Yellow Cake

1. What is the origin of old fashioned yellow cake?

Old fashioned yellow cake has been a staple in American baking for generations. The recipe originated from traditional Southern cooking and was popularized during the Great Depression due to its simplicity and affordability. It was often made with basic pantry staples, making it an accessible dessert for many families.

2. Can I make this cake without an electric mixer?

Yes, you can make this cake without an electric mixer. The creaming method, which involves beating butter and sugar until light and fluffy, can be done by hand using a whisk or a fork. It may take a bit more time and effort, but the result will be just as delicious.

3. How should I store leftover yellow cake?

Leftover yellow cake should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container. It can be kept this way for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

4. Can I add mix-ins or flavors to the cake batter?

Yes, you can add mix-ins or flavors to the cake batter to make it your own. Some popular additions include chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. You can also add extracts like vanilla, almond, or lemon to enhance the flavor. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as mix-ins can affect the cake’s texture and density.

5. Why do we add pudding mix to the cake batter?

Adding a box of instant pudding mix to the cake batter is a common trick to enhance the cake’s texture and flavor. The pudding mix contains starches and flavors that help to make the cake moist and tender, and it also adds a subtle flavor boost. It is not a necessary ingredient, but it can improve the overall quality of the cake.

6. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

While all-purpose flour is the standard for this recipe, you can experiment with different types of flour to achieve a unique texture. For example, using cake flour will result in a lighter and more delicate cake. On the other hand, using whole wheat flour will give the cake a denser texture and a nuttier flavor. Keep in mind that using a different type of flour may require adjustments to the liquid or leavening agents in the recipe.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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