There’s nothing like the smell of a homemade cake filling the kitchen, bringing back warm memories of family gatherings and joyful celebrations. This ultra-rich, moist, and fluffy yellow cake is a showstopper—perfect for Easter, birthdays, or any special occasion. Made from scratch with love, it’s way better than any boxed mix! Bake this beauty, share it with loved ones, and create delicious moments together. Who’s ready to indulge in a slice of happiness?
- Prep Time: 30 min
- Cook Time: 40 min
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
Yellow Cake:
✔️ 2 1/4 cups flour
✔️ 2 tsp baking powder
✔️ 1/4 tsp baking soda
✔️ 1/2 tsp sea salt
✔️ 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cool room temperature
✔️ 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
✔️ 3 large eggs (room temperature)
✔️ 2 large egg yolks (room temperature)
✔️ 2 tsp vanilla extract
✔️ 1/4 cup sour cream or full-fat yogurt (room temperature)
✔️ 3/4 cup whole milk (warm)
Pastry Cream:
✔️ 5 egg yolks
✔️ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
✔️ 3 tbsp cornstarch
✔️ 2 cups whole milk
✔️ 1/4 tsp sea salt
✔️ 4 tbsp butter
✔️ 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter, flour, and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
2️⃣ In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3️⃣ In a large bowl, beat butter until smooth and creamy (about 1 minute). Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes).
4️⃣ Add eggs, yolks, and vanilla one at a time, beating well between each. Mix in sour cream.
5️⃣ With the mixer on low, alternate adding flour mixture and warm milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
6️⃣ Divide batter between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool for 20 minutes before removing from pans.
1️⃣ In a saucepan, heat 1 1/2 cups milk with vanilla until it starts to simmer, then remove from heat.
2️⃣ In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup milk, egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch.
3️⃣ Slowly whisk hot milk into egg mixture, then return to the saucepan. Cook over high heat, whisking constantly, until thickened.
4️⃣ Remove from heat, stir in butter, and let cool.
1️⃣ Place one cake layer on a stand and spread 1/3 of the frosting over it.
2️⃣ Top with the second cake layer (upside-down for a flat top).
3️⃣ Frost the entire cake evenly and smooth out the edges.
Notes
Baking Tips:
- Ensure all ingredients (butter, eggs, milk, and sour cream) are at room temperature for the best texture.
- Do not overmix the batter—this keeps the cake light and fluffy!
- If you prefer, you can substitute sour cream with full-fat yogurt for a slightly tangy flavor.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra festive touch!
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal per Slice
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 180mg