Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate celebration centerpiece, look no further than this recipe for Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting. Every bite offers the classic buttery richness and fluffiness you expect, wrapped in a dreamy, creamy buttercream frosting that’s just sweet enough. Simple pantry staples transform into something magical here, making this cake a go-to for birthdays, holidays, or any day when you want to add a little extra happiness to the table. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a total beginner, this is one recipe that guarantees rave reviews and a second slice for everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting couldn’t be more straightforward, yet each one truly matters in creating that tender crumb and luscious finish. These essentials work together seamlessly to deliver that golden, nostalgic flavor and the perfectly balanced frosting that steals the show.

• All-purpose flour: The dependable foundation for structure and a fine crumb in your layers.
• Baking powder: Lends the cake its lift and delicate texture—don’t skip it!
• Baking soda: Just a touch works with the other leaveners for a light, fluffy result.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and lets the butter and vanilla flavors shine.
• Unsalted butter (cake): Brings that unmistakable, rich taste and buttery moisture to every slice.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens while also creating tenderness as it creams with the butter.
• Whole eggs: Four eggs provide structure, richness, and color to your cake.
• Egg yolks: Extra yolks make the cake extra rich and give it that beautiful golden hue.
• Whole milk: For plushness and a light, moist crumb; room temperature is key.
• Vanilla extract (cake): Rounds out the flavor—don’t be shy with a whole tablespoon.
• Unsalted butter (frosting): The backbone of your buttercream; be sure it’s softened for easier creaming.
• Powdered sugar: Sifted to ensure your frosting is smooth and billowy, never gritty.
• Heavy cream or milk: Just enough to reach that perfectly spreadable consistency in your frosting.
• Vanilla extract (frosting): Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the buttercream flavor.
• Pinch of salt (frosting): A tiny bit sharpens and balances all that sweetness beautifully.

How to Make Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper; this helps to ensure your cakes release flawlessly after baking. If you have four pans and prefer thinner layers, feel free to use those—the cake is happy either way!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting makes the cake extra light and helps with even mixing, preventing any lumps in your batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step adds air and guarantees the signature lightness you want in Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Yolks, and Vanilla

Add the eggs and extra yolks one at a time, mixing until each is well incorporated before moving to the next. Stir in the tablespoon of vanilla extract; its warm aroma makes the batter irresistible before it even hits the oven.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add your sifted dry mix and whole milk to the butter-egg mixture, starting and ending with the dry mix. Mix until just smooth—no over-mixing! This step keeps your Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting tender and dreamy.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Don’t rush this—frosting a warm cake is a recipe for a melty mess!

Step 7: Make and Whip the Classic Buttercream Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the butter until fluffy and pale, then gradually add the sifted powdered sugar. Add vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and cream (or milk) one tablespoon at a time. You’re aiming for smooth, luscious, and easily spreadable—this is what will make your Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting look as good as it tastes.

Step 8: Assemble and Frost the Cake

Once completely cooled, carefully slice each cake horizontally to create four even layers. Place the first layer on your serving board and spread a generous layer of frosting. Repeat with all layers, then spread a thin crumb coat around the entire cake. Chill for a few minutes, then apply a final, even coat of buttercream. Finish however you like—with sprinkles, nuts, or fruit for that special touch!

How to Serve Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting

Garnishes

The beauty of Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting is how welcoming it is to a rainbow of garnishes. Classic rainbow sprinkles bring party vibes—don’t be shy! Crushed nuts offer crunch and a grown-up twist, while a crown of fresh berries or sliced strawberries adds pop and a little tartness that perfectly complements the sweet buttercream.

Side Dishes

Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a double dose of creamy delight. If serving to guests after a meal, a cup of hot coffee or a tall glass of cold milk is the perfect way to round out the experience. For brunch celebrations, serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try making mini layer cakes out of the recipe using biscuit cutters for an adorable dessert table centerpiece. Or, serve slices stacked in clear mason jars for picnics or potlucks—fun, portable, and still impressive. If you want to take it over the top, drizzle plates with a raspberry or chocolate sauce before adding your slice of Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting for restaurant-worthy flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any remaining cake extra fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. During warmer weather or if your kitchen is particularly humid, you may want to refrigerate it to prevent the buttercream from getting too soft.

Freezing

Both the cake and the buttercream freeze beautifully. Wrap un-frosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to three months. Frosted cake slices can be frozen individually, too—just make sure they’re wrapped well or placed in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

If you like your cake a little warm (who doesn’t?), pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The frosting will soften and the cake will taste as if it just came out of the oven. Be careful not to overheat, as buttercream can quickly melt.

FAQs

Can I use buttermilk instead of whole milk?

Absolutely! Buttermilk adds a pleasing tang and makes the crumb even more tender, giving your Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting a lovely old-fashioned flair.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for best texture, and keep an eye on bake time as it sometimes differs slightly.

What’s the best way to get even cake layers?

Use a kitchen scale to measure your batter into the pans—this makes dividing the batter simple and ensures your cake looks professional. Chilling the cake layers before slicing them horizontally also helps you get cleaner, more even cuts.

Can I color or flavor the frosting?

Definitely! Add gel food coloring for vibrant hues, or beat in citrus zest, almond extract, or even a little espresso powder for fun flavor twists that elevate your Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting.

Why is my cake dry?

Dryness usually creeps in if the cake is over-baked or if the flour is packed when measured. Always spoon and level your flour and keep a close eye on the baking time for that signature moist crumb.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been longing for a show-stopping homemade dessert that’s both nostalgic and crowd-pleasing, this Moist Yellow Cake with Frosting really does deliver. Nothing beats digging into a slice you’ve made from scratch—it’s the kind of recipe everyone will ask for. Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the baking begin!