There’s no cake quite like white almond cake. Also known as White Almond Sour Cream Cake (WASC), this recipe is a fail-proof delight that’s perfect for weddings and special occasions. The secret ingredient of sour cream gives this cake its signature moist, dense, and delicious texture.
This classic white wedding cake combines the convenience of a white cake mix with a few additional ingredients to create a homemade taste that’s simply irresistible. I often turn to this recipe for my kids’ birthdays, but it’s also a top choice for elegant wedding cakes. Plus, this versatile recipe can easily be doubled to accommodate larger celebrations.
Ingredients
Below are the key ingredients required to make the delicious White Almond Wedding Cake and its complementing Almond Buttercream.
White Almond Cake Ingredients
- White Cake Mix
- White Almond Sour Cream
- Buttermilk
- Water
- Vanilla Extract
- Almond Extract
- Baking staples (e.g., sugar, salt, flour)
- Butter
- Cream Cheese
- Confectioners’ Sugar
- Almond Extract
- Vanilla Extract
- Instant Clearjel (optional for thickness)
- Food colorings (as desired)
Equipment Needed
- Three 7-inch or 8-inch round cake pans
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serrated knife
- Cake turntable
- Offset spatula
- Cooling rack
- Piping bags and decorating tips
- Cake stand or platter
Preparation
Preparing for the baking process is a crucial step to ensure a successful outcome. Here’s how to get everything ready before you start mixing the batter:
Prepping the Baking Pans
Before you begin, make sure to properly prepare your baking pans. Use nonstick cooking spray and parchment paper circles to line the pans. This step will help prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove once baked.
Pre-measuring Ingredients
To streamline the baking process, pre-measure all the ingredients you’ll need for the recipe. Using prep bowls to hold pre-measured ingredients can save time and prevent mistakes during mixing. This organized approach will make the baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Cake Batter Instructions
Creating the perfect white almond wedding cake batter is the first step towards a delightful dessert. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure a moist and delicious outcome.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
To begin, gather the dry ingredients necessary for the cake batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution.
Combining Wet Ingredients
Next, it’s time to incorporate the wet ingredients into the mix. Add water, sour cream, vegetable oil, almond extract, vanilla extract, and room temperature egg whites to the dry mixture. Mix these ingredients on low speed until they are well combined. It’s important to leave some lumps in the batter for a light and airy texture.
Mixing Batter Together
Once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, increase the mixer speed to medium and mix the batter for a full 2 minutes. This step helps aerate the batter and develop its structure for a fluffy cake. Pour the batter into prepared cake pans, using a kitchen scale for accuracy if desired. Bake the cakes according to the recipe instructions until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Baking the Cake
When it comes to baking the perfect White Almond Wedding Cake, precision is key. Follow these guidelines to ensure your cakes turn out moist and delicious, ready for any celebration.
Cake Baking Times and Temperatures
Baking times and temperatures are crucial factors in achieving a well-baked cake. For this White Almond Wedding Cake recipe, bake the cakes at the recommended temperature detailed in the recipe until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Adjust baking times if using different pan sizes as indicated in the recipe notes for optimal results.
Testing Cake Doneness
To guarantee that your White Almond Wedding Cake is perfectly baked, test it for doneness before removing it from the oven. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Avoid overbaking to maintain the moist texture of the cake layers.
Making Almond Buttercream
Creating a luxurious and flavorful almond buttercream is a crucial step in perfecting your white almond wedding cake. Let’s dive into the process of making this delightful frosting that will elevate your cake to a whole new level.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
To begin, ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easy creaming. In a mixing bowl, beat 2 cups of unsalted butter on medium speed for about 30 seconds using a paddle attachment until it becomes smooth and creamy. This initial step sets the foundation for a lusciously smooth buttercream that will perfectly complement your cake layers.
Adding Almonds and Flavorings
Enhancing the almond flavor in your buttercream is key to achieving that signature taste in a white almond wedding cake. Incorporate 2 teaspoons of almond extract, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a 1/2 teaspoon of salt. These additions not only add depth to the flavor profile but also provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the powdered sugar. Be mindful of the quality of your ingredients as they play a significant role in the overall taste and texture of your buttercream.
Assembling the Cake
Assembling the White Almond Wedding Cake is a crucial step towards creating a stunning and delicious dessert for your special occasion. Ensuring each layer is stacked and frosted with precision will result in a visually appealing and mouthwatering treat.
Layering the Cake
- Stack and frost the cake layers on a greaseproof cake board, using a dab of frosting to help secure the first cake layer.
- Add an even layer of almond buttercream between each cake layer, creating a delectable almond-flavored filling.
- Spread a thin coat of frosting around the entire cake to fully cover the cake layers, smoothing it out with a bench scraper.
- Chill the cake in the fridge for 10 minutes or the freezer for 5 minutes until the frosting is firm to the touch.
- Apply a second, thicker layer of frosting to the cake and smooth it out using a bench scraper, then proceed to decorate the cake as desired.
- Mix together the butter, shortening, powdered sugar, and flavorings to create a smooth and creamy almond buttercream.
- Use the buttercream to frost the cake generously, ensuring that each layer is evenly covered with a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Consider adding a white chocolate decoration or any desired embellishments to enhance the visual appeal of the finished cake.
- Once frosted, let the cake set and chill for a short while before serving to allow the flavors to meld together for a delightful eating experience.
Decorating Tips
When it comes to decorating your white almond wedding cake, precision and attention to detail are key for a stunning result. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautifully decorated cake that not only looks amazing but tastes delicious too.
Basic Decoration Techniques
To start, ensure your cake layers are perfectly leveled and cooled before frosting. Use a serrated knife to trim any caramelized edges for pristine white layers. For a classic look, apply a smooth layer of almond buttercream between each layer, creating a delicious contrast to the cake’s sweetness. Once assembled, chill the cake to firm the layers before applying the final frosting coat.
Advanced Wedding Cake Designs
For those looking to elevate their cake design further, consider adding intricate details like piped buttercream flowers, elegant swirls, or delicate fondant decorations. Experiment with different piping tips for unique textures and designs. To achieve a professional finish, use a turntable for smooth frosting application and invest in quality decorating tools for precise results. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to get creative and personalize your white almond wedding cake to match your special day.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
When it comes to white almond wedding cakes, proper storage and make-ahead techniques are key to maintain freshness and texture. Here are some tips to help you preserve your masterpiece for the special day:
Refrigerating the Cake
After decorating your white almond wedding cake, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. To ensure the cake stays fresh and moist, cover any exposed areas with plastic wrap to prevent drying. Remember, the cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, so take it out of the fridge about an hour before serving to allow it to come back to its ideal texture.
Freezing and Thawing Instructions
If you need to prepare your white almond wedding cake in advance, you can freeze the cake layers for up to a month. Simply wrap the layers in plastic wrap before freezing them. When ready to use, thaw the frozen cake layers in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, bring the cake back to room temperature before assembling and serving to ensure the best taste and texture experience.
Conclusion
Creating a White Almond Wedding Cake is a delightful journey that requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. From baking the perfect cake layers to crafting a smooth almond buttercream, every step contributes to the final masterpiece. Assembling the cake with precision and care ensures a visually stunning and delicious treat for any special occasion. Remember to follow the storage tips to keep your cake fresh and flavorful, allowing you to enjoy it even days after baking. With the right techniques and a dash of creativity, your White Almond Wedding Cake will be a showstopper that delights both the eyes and taste buds of your guests. Happy baking!
