Fluffy White Layer Cake
Desserts

Fluffy White Layer Cake

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated September 21, 2026

A light, airy white cake with a soft and delicate crumb that pairs beautifully with any filling or frosting you can dream up. This foolproof base recipe is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a simple afternoon treat. Customize it with pastry cream, jam, or chocolate ganache — the possibilities are endless.

Prep⏱️ 40 min
Servings👥 20 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

20 servings

20
  • 60 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs, yolks and whites separated
  • 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1 cup (250 ml) whole milk
  • 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (11 g / 2½ tsp) baking powder
  • Butter and flour for greasing the pan

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350 °F (180 °C). Grease and flour a cake pan thoroughly.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar until light and creamy. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

  3. 3

    Gradually incorporate the milk, alternating with the sifted flour. Stir gently to keep the batter smooth and lump-free.

  4. 4

    In a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks using an electric mixer.

  5. 5

    Fold the beaten egg whites into the batter in three additions, using a spatula and lifting from bottom to top to retain the airiness.

  6. 6

    Finally, gently fold in the baking powder until just combined.

  7. 7

    Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  8. 8

    Cool for 10 minutes in the pan before unmolding. Let cool completely before filling and frosting.

💡 Chef's Tip

Sift the flour twice for an extra-tender crumb. A teaspoon of vanilla extract or a little lemon zest adds a lovely fragrance to the batter. Keeps well for up to 3 days at room temperature under a cake dome.