Best Yellow Cake Recipe with Chocolate Buttercream

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There’s something incredibly nostalgic about a classic yellow cake, especially when it’s topped with rich chocolate buttercream. This Best Yellow Cake Recipe with Chocolate Buttercream embraces all the flavors of childhood birthday parties, family gatherings, and celebrations. With its soft, tender crumb and creamy frosting, this cake is sure to become your go-to recipe for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This yellow cake is not just another dessert; it’s a timeless classic that stands the test of time. Here are a few reasons why you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again:

• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the buttermilk, this cake is wonderfully moist and tender.
• Versatile Flavor: The subtle vanilla flavor pairs beautifully with the chocolate buttercream, making it a crowd-pleaser.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, even for beginner bakers, with no complicated techniques involved.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or toppings to personalize this cake.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a Tuesday, this cake fits every celebration.

Ingredient Checklist

To create this delightful yellow cake with chocolate buttercream, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 cups plus 2 tablespoons cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter (2 sticks), at room temperature
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 eggs, at room temperature
• 2 cups buttermilk

For the chocolate buttercream, you will need:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following gear handy:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans – for even baking and easy layering.
• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
• Electric mixer – to make the mixing process quick and efficient.
• Spatula – to scrape down the sides of your mixing bowl.
• Cooling rack – to allow your cakes to cool properly before frosting.

Best Yellow Cake Recipe with Chocolate Buttercream Made Stepwise

Ready to bake? Follow these simple steps to create your best yellow cake:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pans

Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will help your cakes release easily after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination is crucial for the cake’s structure.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Chocolate Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined. Add vanilla and enough cream or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 10: Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of chocolate buttercream on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining chocolate buttercream.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

If you have dietary restrictions, here are some easy swaps you can make:

• Gluten-Free: Replace cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and almond or coconut milk in place of buttermilk.
• Egg-Free: Substitute each egg with a flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacement.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even experienced bakers can run into issues. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Not measuring flour correctly – Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Overmixing the batter – This can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
• Using cold ingredients – Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for even mixing.
• Not letting the cake cool completely – Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you have leftover cake, here’s how to store it:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

While you can use all-purpose flour, cake flour will give you a lighter, more tender crumb. If you must use all-purpose flour, try to reduce the amount slightly to avoid a dense cake.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Your cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. It should also bounce back when lightly pressed.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Frost just before serving to keep it fresh.

What other flavors can I pair with this yellow cake?

This Best Yellow Cake Recipe with Chocolate Buttercream pairs wonderfully with various flavors like lemon curd, raspberry jam, or even a simple vanilla buttercream. Feel free to get creative!

Looking for more delicious baking inspiration? Check these out:

See You at the Table

Get ready to impress your family and friends with your baking skills. This Best Yellow Cake Recipe with Chocolate Buttercream is bound to be a hit, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet. Happy baking!