Are you a lover of all things bright and buttery? Look no further! Yellow cake is a classic dessert that never goes out of style, and we’re celebrating its sunshine-y goodness with 18 decadent recipes to try. From classic vanilla with chocolate frosting to bold combinations like strawberry-filled cakes with vanilla buttercream, these yellow cake recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for a special occasion or a simple treat to brighten up your week, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of yellow cake recipes features a range of flavors and textures, from moist and buttery to light and airy, and each one is sure to impress. So go ahead, get baking, and let the sunshine in with these 18 amazing yellow cake recipes!
Classic Vanilla Yellow Cake with Chocolate Frosting
A timeless favorite, this moist and flavorful cake is elevated by a rich and creamy chocolate frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely in pans. For frosting, melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl; stir until smooth. Add butter, powdered sugar, and milk. Beat until smooth.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes (including cooling time)
Lemon Glazed Yellow Cake with Fresh Berries
Brighten up your day with this refreshing dessert, featuring a moist lemon-glazed yellow cake paired with sweet and tangy fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup whole milk
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, and milk.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients; divide evenly between prepared pans.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before glazing with a mixture of powdered sugar, lemon juice, and water (see note).
7. Serve with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Note: To make the glaze, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon water until smooth.
Moist Yellow Butter Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
A classic yellow butter cake gets a boost of moisture and flavor from buttermilk, while the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy and creamy contrast.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add sugar; beat until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in buttermilk and eggs.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; beat just until combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely.
9. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in vanilla extract.
10. Gradually add powdered sugar; beat until smooth.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes (including cooling time)
Golden Yellow Cake with Whipped Coconut Cream
This moist and flavorful cake is elevated by a dollop of whipped coconut cream, creating a sweet and tangy combination that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the whipped coconut cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in milk and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely.
7. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Strawberry-Filled Yellow Cake with Vanilla Buttercream
Surprise your loved ones with a moist and flavorful yellow cake filled with sweet strawberry goodness, topped with a rich vanilla buttercream frosting.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Filling:
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Vanilla Buttercream:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
6. Prepare the strawberry filling by mixing sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and cornstarch. Spoon over cooled cake layers.
7. For the buttercream, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Spread or pipe onto cake.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Pineapple Upside-Down Yellow Cake
This moist and flavorful cake features caramelized pineapple rings on the bottom, topped with a vibrant yellow cake and a crunchy brown sugar crust. A perfect dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup yellow cake mix
– 1 cup pineapple rings, fresh or canned
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Add milk, pineapple juice, and yellow cake mix; beat until smooth.
5. Arrange pineapple rings on the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour batter over pineapple, spreading evenly.
7. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rich Yellow Cake with Salted Caramel Drizzle
Rich Yellow Cake with Salted Caramel Drizzle Recipe
This classic yellow cake recipe is elevated by a rich and salty caramel drizzle, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the caramel drizzle:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
3. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely on wire racks.
6. To make caramel drizzle, combine heavy cream, sugar, and sea salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
7. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until melted.
8. Drizzle warm caramel over cooled cake slices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes for the cake, 10-15 minutes to make the caramel drizzle.
Chocolate Chip Yellow Cake with Fudge Frosting
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect blend of sweet and indulgent, topped off with a rich fudge frosting that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate craving.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the frosting:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in flour mixture, followed by chocolate chips.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before frosting.
Frosting:
1. Beat butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
2. Melt cocoa powder in heavy cream, then whisk into butter mixture.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Stir in chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips.
5. Spread or drizzle over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Orange Zest Yellow Cake with Citrus Glaze
Brighten up your day with this vibrant and citrusy cake, perfect for springtime celebrations or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Citrus glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, orange juice, and zest.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Citrus Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
Whisk together ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Blueberry Swirl Yellow Cake with Lemon Icing
Brighten up your day with this sweet and tangy combination of a moist yellow cake, swirled with blueberries, and topped with a refreshing lemon icing.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
For the icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until smooth.
3. Gently fold in blueberries.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before icing.
Icing:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Add softened butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Spread or drizzle over cooled cake.
Banana Pudding Yellow Cake with Vanilla Wafers
A moist and flavorful yellow cake filled with banana pudding goodness, paired with crunchy vanilla wafers for the ultimate dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup banana pudding mix
– Vanilla wafers (about 12-15 wafers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter and eggs. Beat until smooth.
4. Add mashed bananas and mix well.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with banana pudding mix and vanilla wafers.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes (including cooling time)
Almond Yellow Cake with Raspberry Jam Filling
Elevate your baking game with this delightful Almond Yellow Cake filled with a tangy Raspberry Jam surprise.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
– 1 cup (200g) raspberry jam
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, butter, almond extract, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Allow cakes to cool completely on wire racks.
5. Spread raspberry jam on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top.
6. Dust with granulated sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Coconut Yellow Cake with Toasted Coconut Topping
This classic yellow cake gets a tropical twist with the addition of coconut and toasted coconut flakes on top. Perfect for a special occasion or just a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– Toasted coconut flakes for topping (see instructions)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut, milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Toast coconut flakes by spreading on a baking sheet and baking at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes per cake
Spiced Chai Yellow Cake with Honey Frosting
Warm up to the comforting flavors of spiced chai and sweet honey in this delightful cake recipe.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon chai spice mix (or to taste)
For the frosting:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, milk, and chai spice mix.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. For the frosting, beat powdered sugar, honey, and butter until smooth.
7. Assemble cake by spreading frosting on top of one layer, then placing the second layer on top.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes (including cooling)
Red Velvet Marbled Yellow Cake
This show-stopping cake combines the classic flavors of red velvet and yellow cake, with a striking marbled design that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon yellow food coloring
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter and eggs until smooth. Add red and yellow food coloring; mix until combined.
4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Use a spatula or spoon to create a marbled design by swirling the two batters together.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Peanut Butter Yellow Cake with Chocolate Ganache
Elevate your cake game with this rich and decadent dessert featuring a peanut butter-infused yellow cake, topped with a velvety chocolate ganache. Perfect for special occasions or just because!
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
For the ganache:
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, eggs, and butter; beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely in pans before transferring to wire racks.
7. For the ganache, melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Stir in heavy cream.
8. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and drizzle with ganache; top with second cake layer.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes for cakes, 5-7 minutes for ganache
Tiramisu-Inspired Yellow Cake with Coffee Soak
This moist yellow cake is infused with the essence of coffee, reminiscent of the classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu. The coffee soak adds a rich and deep flavor profile to the cake, making it perfect for coffee lovers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before soaking with coffee (see below).
Coffee Soak:
1. Brew strong coffee according to your preferred method.
2. Whisk together cooled coffee and 2 tablespoons sugar until dissolved.
3. Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate or cake stand.
4. Pour half of the coffee mixture evenly over the cake layer.
5. Repeat with the second cake layer and remaining coffee mixture.
Serve: Slice and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cherry Almond Yellow Cake with Amaretto Glaze
This vibrant cake is infused with the sweetness of cherries and the subtle nuttiness of almonds, topped with a rich Amaretto glaze that will leave you craving another slice.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons almond extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons Amaretto liqueur
– 2 tablespoons whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
5. Stir in almond extract and cherries.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool completely before glazing.
Glaze:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, Amaretto liqueur, and milk until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
