Craving a delightful treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? Let me introduce you to the Snowy Vanilla Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream. This heavenly dessert combines moist vanilla cake layers with a rich and creamy frosting that’s simply irresistible.
Originating in North America, this cake is a favorite for celebrations and special occasions. The light and fluffy texture of the cake pairs perfectly with the decadent cream cheese buttercream, creating a flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
For the Snowy Vanilla Cake
- 2 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ¼ cups salted butter, softened
- 7 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 3 ½ cups cake flour (plus more for pans)
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Vegetable shortening
- 1 8oz package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 2 16oz packages powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Equipment Needed
Equipment for Cake:
- Three 9-inch round cake pans
- Electric stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Sifter
- Wire racks
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bags and tips (optional for decorating)
Preparation
Preparing the ingredients is an essential step to ensure a successful outcome for your snowy vanilla cake with cream cheese buttercream. Let’s get everything ready for the baking process.
Prepping the Ingredients
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to prepare before starting the baking process:
- Butter (Softened): Make sure your butter is softened to whip up nice and fluffy.
- Powdered Sugar: This is your go-to for frosting recipes; it blends beautifully and creates a smooth texture without grittiness.
- Vanilla Extract and Salt: Essential for achieving the perfect flavor profile.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure you are using block-style cream cheese for the frosting.
Be sure to have three 8-inch cake pans lined with parchment paper and prepped with a nonstick spray ready for the next steps. Now, let’s move on to mixing the wet ingredients to commence the baking process.
Instructions
Making the Snowy Vanilla Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare three 9-inch round cake pans by lining them with parchment paper and coating with vegetable shortening.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Add room temperature egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and water to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Stir in vanilla extract and mix until the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar in batches, blending well after each addition.
- Mix in whole milk, vanilla extract, and salt until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- If the frosting is too thick, you can add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, assemble the layers with a generous amount of cream cheese buttercream between each layer.
- Frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream, ensuring a smooth and even finish.
- Decorate the cake as desired, and serve this delightful Snowy Vanilla Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream for a truly special occasion.
Assembly
Layering the Cake and Frosting
To assemble the snowy vanilla cake gracefully, start by placing one of the cooled vanilla cake layers on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the prepared cream cheese buttercream over the top of the first cake layer using an offset spatula. Ensure the frosting is evenly distributed to the edges to create a smooth and creamy layer.
Carefully stack the second vanilla cake layer on top of the frosted first layer. Gently press down to secure the layers together. Proceed to frost the entire cake, including the sides, with the remaining cream cheese buttercream. Smooth out the frosting on the top and sides of the cake for a polished finish, adding more frosting as needed to achieve your desired look.
Final Decorative Touches
Once the snowy vanilla cake is frosted, add your final decorative touches to elevate its presentation. Consider sprinkling some shredded coconut over the top of the cake to create a snowy effect that complements the vanilla flavor. For a festive touch, top the cake with edible silver or gold sprinkles, or fresh berries for a pop of color.
To complete the look, you can garnish the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or finely grated white chocolate for an elegant finish. Let your creativity shine with additional decorations such as edible flowers, chocolate curls, or silver dragees. Finally, stand back and admire your beautifully decorated snowy vanilla cake before serving it to your delighted guests.
Tips for Perfect Cake and Frosting
Cake Baking Tips
To ensure a flawless Snowy Vanilla Cake, make sure to accurately measure all ingredients before starting. Room temperature ingredients, such as eggs, butter, and milk, allow for better incorporation and a lighter texture. Properly greasing and lining your cake pans will prevent sticking and ensure easy cake release after baking. Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a dense cake – mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
Buttercream Tips
For a luscious Cream Cheese Buttercream frosting, always start with softened butter for a smooth and creamy texture. Gradually add powdered sugar to prevent a gritty texture and achieve the desired sweetness level. Incorporate vanilla extract at the end for optimal flavor – choose high-quality vanilla for a rich taste. To avoid air bubbles in the buttercream, mix on low speed and use a spatula to eliminate any trapped air. Chill the frosting briefly before decorating to enhance its stability and prevent melting.
Serving and Storing
After creating this luscious Snowy Vanilla Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream, it’s time to think about the best ways to serve it and ensure it stays fresh for longer.
Best Ways to Serve
To serve this delightful Snowy Vanilla Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream, slice it using a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Place each slice on a dessert plate and serve it with a dollop of extra cream cheese buttercream or a side of fresh berries for a burst of flavor. You can also sprinkle some shredded coconut on top to enhance the snowy appearance.
Storage Recommendations
For optimal freshness, store any leftover Snowy Vanilla Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy another slice, bring the cake to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and enhance the overall taste.
Conclusion
Creating a Snowy Vanilla Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream is a delightful way to elevate any occasion. The moist cake layers paired with the rich, creamy frosting make for a truly indulgent treat. By following the detailed recipe and tips provided, you can ensure a successful baking experience. From preparing the pans to decorating the final masterpiece, each step contributes to the cake’s overall appeal. Whether enjoyed on its own or with added berries, this cake is sure to impress your guests. Remember to store any leftovers in the refrigerator and bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. With this recipe in your repertoire, you’ll be ready to dazzle with a delicious and visually stunning dessert.