White Cake. Mrs. Wm. Hoover. Recipe

White cake is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed by generations. Its origins can be traced back to the mid-19th century when cakes made with just the whites of eggs became popular. This recipe, by Mrs. Wm. Hoover, brings together the simplicity of a white cake and the richness of butter and sweet milk.

Interesting to note, in the 18th and 19th centuries, white cakes were considered a symbol of purity and often used in weddings. The white color symbolized innocence and new beginnings. Over time, this cake has become a staple for various occasions, from birthdays to anniversaries, and remains a favorite for those who prefer a lighter and less sweet dessert.

Now, let's dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:
- Whites of five eggs
- 2 cups of sugar
- 2/3 cup of butter
- 2 1/2 cups of flour
- 1 cup of sweet milk
- 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
- Flavoring of your choice (vanilla, almond, lemon, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.

3. In a separate bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy.

4. Gradually add the flour and sweet milk to the creamed mixture, alternating between the two. Start and end with the flour.

5. Stir in the baking powder until well incorporated, being careful not to overmix.

6. Gently fold in the stiff egg whites into the batter, combining them thoroughly but avoiding excessive mixing to maintain the airiness.

7. Add in your preferred flavoring to suit your taste. This could be a teaspoon or two of vanilla extract, almond extract, lemon zest, or any other flavor you desire.

8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

9. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Once done, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional: You can frost the cake with your choice of frosting, such as a simple vanilla buttercream or a light and fluffy whipped cream frosting. You can also add a layer of fruit preserves or fresh berries between the cake layers for added flavor and texture.

This white cake is exceptionally versatile, allowing you to experiment with different frostings and fillings. It serves as a perfect base for layer cakes, cupcakes, or even individual-sized desserts like cake pops. Decorate it as you wish, be it with elegant piped designs or colorful sprinkles.

Similar recipes or variations of white cake include angel food cake, chiffon cake, and sponge cake. These cakes also make use of egg whites for a lighter texture. Angel food cake is particularly airy and spongy, while chiffon cake incorporates both egg whites and yolks for a more tender crumb. Sponge cake, on the other hand, typically uses whole eggs and has a slightly denser texture.

So, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delightful treat, this white cake recipe by Mrs. Wm. Hoover will surely impress. Enjoy the sweet simplicity and subtle flavors of this timeless dessert!