Classic White Cake with Whipped Frosting

Ingredients:

• Cake:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 3 cups cake flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 6 egg whites, room temperature
• Whipped Frosting:
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla and almond extracts.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add Dry Ingredients and Milk: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Stir just until combined.
5. Whip Egg Whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter.
6. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
7. Make Whipped Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
8. Assemble and Frost: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped frosting over it. Top with the second cake layer and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
9. Serve: Chill the cake for about an hour before serving to set the frosting.

Nutritional Analysis and Health Benefits:

• Calories: Each serving contains approximately 400-450 calories, largely from sugars and fats.
• Protein: Moderate protein content from milk and egg whites, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Carbohydrates: Primarily from sugar and flour, providing a quick source of energy.
• Fats: Contains saturated fats from butter and heavy cream, which contribute to the rich flavor and texture of the cake.

Health Impact:

• Bone Health: Ingredients like milk and cream provide calcium, which is vital for bone strength.
• Energy Levels: The high sugar content can provide an immediate energy boost, which can be useful for short-term energy needs but should be consumed in moderation.
• Considerations: This cake is high in sugar and saturated fats, making it more suitable for occasional indulgence rather than regular consumption, especially for those managing their blood sugar or cardiovascular health.

This Classic White Cake with Whipped Frosting is a delightful treat for special occasions, offering a light, fluffy texture with creamy, sweet frosting. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet to keep its indulgent qualities in check.