Yellow Birthday Cake with Chocolate Frosting

Name: Yellow Birthday Cake with Chocolate Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 4 large eggs; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting); 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting); 4 cups powdered sugar; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

There’s nothing quite like a homemade yellow birthday cake to celebrate life’s special moments. This classic cake is soft, moist, and bursting with rich vanilla flavor that pairs perfectly with luscious chocolate frosting. The enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes will have everyone eagerly anticipating the first slice. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a family gathering, or simply an excuse to indulge, this yellow cake will be the star of the show. With its delightful texture and comforting taste, it’s sure to bring joy to all who enjoy it. Let’s get started on creating this delicious and beautiful dessert!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture to the cake.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Contributes richness and flavor.
1 cup milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
3 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm vanilla note.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
4 large eggs: Provides structure and richness to the cake.
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Essential for the rich chocolate frosting.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Helps create a smooth and creamy texture in frosting.
4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it a light, fluffy feel.
½ cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and helps achieve the right consistency for frosting.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds depth of flavor to the chocolate frosting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cakes release easily.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until everything is combined smoothly.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans, making sure to smooth the tops for even baking.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
For the frosting, beat together the softened butter and cocoa powder until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting between the layers and on the top and sides of the cake.
Slice, serve, and enjoy the sweet celebration!

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12
Calories: Approximately 450 per slice

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tip: Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just thaw before frosting.
Variations: For a twist, add lemon zest to the cake batter for a citrus hint or mix in mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, cake flour can be used for a lighter texture, but you may need to adjust the amount slightly.

2. How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the layers a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

4. What can I substitute for heavy cream in the frosting?
You can use half-and-half or even milk, but the frosting may not be as rich.

5. How do I store leftover frosting?
Store unused frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

6. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

This yellow birthday cake with chocolate frosting is a timeless treat that will surely become a favorite in your household. Its delightful layers and rich frosting create a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe for your next celebration, and remember to share it with family and friends. A slice of this cake is sure to bring warmth and happiness to any occasion. Happy baking!

Yellow Birthday Cake with Chocolate Frosting

Print Recipe

A classic homemade yellow birthday cake, soft and moist, with a rich vanilla flavor topped with luscious chocolate frosting—a perfect treat for any celebration.

Author: hannah-reed
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
4 large eggs
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
4 cups powdered sugar
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until smooth.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
For the frosting, beat together the softened butter and cocoa powder until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until light and fluffy.
Once the cakes are cooled, spread frosting between layers and on the top and sides.
Slice, serve, and enjoy!