There is something truly special about a classic, moist, and fluffy yellow cake made with love from scratch, and that’s exactly what this Homemade Yellow Cake Mix from Scratch Recipe brings to your kitchen. This recipe combines the simplicity of pantry staples with the warmth of homemade baking, resulting in a cake that feels nostalgic yet fresh, perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because you deserve a slice of happiness today. Making your own yellow cake mix not only saves you from store-bought preservatives but also lets you control the exact taste and texture every time you bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Homemade Yellow Cake Mix from Scratch Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the flour provides the perfect structure, sugar adds sweetness and tenderness, baking powder introduces lift and fluffiness, and salt balances the flavors wonderfully. Fresh butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla work harmoniously to create a rich, moist crumb and that golden color we all adore in a yellow cake.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, offering structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping to create that delightful tenderness.
- 1 Tablespoon baking powder: The rising agent that ensures your cake is fluffy and light.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 10 Tablespoons salted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture for the perfect crumb.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the batter together and add to the cake’s structure and flavor.
- 1 1/4 cups milk: Moisturizes the mix, creating a smooth, tender cake.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, aromatic sweetness.
How to Make Homemade Yellow Cake Mix from Scratch Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Mix Jar
Start by combining the dry ingredients to create your custom yellow cake mix. Pour the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt into a 2-quart jar. This mix can be tightly packed to fit, providing a convenient, ready-to-go foundation for several cakes. Seal the jar and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 months — now those last-minute baking cravings just got simpler.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by spraying it generously with baking spray or greasing it with butter. This ensures your cake will release cleanly after baking, keeping its perfect edge intact.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, whip the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, so the batter achieves that perfect silky texture. Next, pour in the milk and vanilla extract, stirring gently—don’t be alarmed if some lumps remain, they’ll disappear during baking.
Step 4: Combine Dry Mix and Wet Ingredients
Slowly add your homemade dry cake mix to the wet ingredients in three batches. Mix thoroughly after each addition, scraping down the sides as needed to bring everything together evenly. The batter should be smooth and spreadable at the end, ready to transform into a golden masterpiece.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and use a spatula to smooth out the surface. Slide it into your oven and let it bake for 32 to 40 minutes, checking near the end by inserting a toothpick into the center. When it comes out clean, your cake is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Step 6: Cool and Decorate
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before adding your favorite toppings or frostings. Cooling ensures a stable, moist crumb that will hold up beautifully to any decoration you choose.
How to Serve Homemade Yellow Cake Mix from Scratch Recipe
Garnishes
One of the joys of this yellow cake is how wonderfully it pairs with a variety of garnishes. A smooth spread of classic buttercream frosting, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce each adds a special finishing touch. Fresh berries and whipped cream also complement the rich yellow flavor, making every bite feel indulgent yet balanced.
Side Dishes
Pair your slice of yellow cake with light sides for an unforgettable dessert experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lemon curd brings a refreshing contrast to the cake’s sweetness. For afternoon tea, serve alongside fresh fruit slices or a simple cup of coffee or tea to enhance the warm, baked flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to elevate the presentation, try layering the cake with fruit preserves or alternating cake slices with whipped cream for a parfait-style dessert. For special occasions, decorate with edible flowers or colorful sprinkles. You can even use cookie cutters to create fun shapes from leftovers, turning every bite into a delightful surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once baked and cooled, store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and fresh. For longer storage, place the container in the refrigerator, but bring the cake to room temperature before serving to enjoy optimal softness.
Freezing
This Homemade Yellow Cake Mix from Scratch Recipe is perfect for freezing. Wrap cooled, uniced cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before frosting and serving.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warm, reheat a slice gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings out the soft texture and enhances the flavors, making it taste freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I make the cake mix without butter?
Butter adds richness and moisture to the cake, but if you’re out or prefer another fat, you can substitute with the same amount of vegetable oil or margarine. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture might be slightly different.
How long does the homemade yellow cake mix last?
Stored properly in a sealed jar at room temperature, your homemade dry mix can last up to 3 months, making it a convenient pantry staple for last-minute baking.
Can I use this mix to make cupcakes?
Absolutely! Just fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. It’s a great way to use this versatile mix.
Do I need to sift the dry ingredients before mixing?
While sifting isn’t strictly necessary when combining ingredients in a sealed jar, giving the flour and baking powder a quick sift before mixing with wet ingredients can ensure an even lighter cake.
Can I add flavors like lemon or almond to this recipe?
Yes! Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract or add grated lemon zest for a delightful twist. These little changes personalize your homemade yellow cake and make every bite unique.
Final Thoughts
There is something so deeply satisfying about making a cake from scratch, especially when it’s a beloved classic like yellow cake. This Homemade Yellow Cake Mix from Scratch Recipe offers an easy, reliable way to whip up a tender, flavorful cake anytime you want. Whether you keep the dry mix ready for those spontaneous sweet cravings or bake it fresh for celebrations, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and make your kitchen smell like the best kind of home.
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Homemade Yellow Cake Mix from Scratch Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This homemade yellow cake mix recipe is a convenient and flavorful base for baking a classic, moist yellow cake. Perfect for preparing in advance and stored in a jar for up to three months, it can be quickly transformed into a delicious cake with simple pantry ingredients. The cake is soft and buttery with a tender crumb, ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or everyday treats.
Ingredients
Cake Mix Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 Tablespoon baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
Cake Batter Ingredients
- 10 Tablespoons salted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the cake mix: In a 2-quart jar, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gently pack the dry ingredients to fit. Seal the jar tightly; this mix can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 months.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray and set it aside.
- Combine the dry ingredients: Pour the prepared cake mix into a large mixing bowl, lightly stirring to combine and set aside.
- Whip the butter: Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or an electric hand mixer, whip the softened butter until it becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the whipped butter, ensuring each egg is fully mixed before adding the next.
- Add milk and vanilla: Stir in the milk and vanilla extract. The mixture may look slightly lumpy at this stage, but that’s normal.
- Mix in dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three batches, mixing fully after each addition to create a smooth batter.
- Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface evenly.
- Bake the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 32 to 40 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before adding your favorite toppings or frosting. Then slice and enjoy!
Notes
- The cake mix can be stored in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to 3 months.
- If you prefer, use unsalted butter and add a pinch more salt in the batter to taste.
- Check doneness starting at 32 minutes to avoid over-baking.
- This mix is versatile—try adding chocolate chips or citrus zest for variations.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
