Step 5: Assemble and frost the cake

Place one room-temperature cake layer on a cake stand or cake plate. Spread the cream cheese frosting on the top of the cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top, lining it up with the bottom layer as evenly as possible. Frost the exterior of the cake using an offset spatula or piping bag.
Editor’s Tip: Need a refresh on the technique? Check out our guide on how to frost a cake the easy way with helpful images, tips and tricks.

Recipe Variations
Use your favorite frosting: Our white velvet cake recipe includes a cream cheese frosting recipe, but you can finish the cake however you prefer. To stick with the white-as-snow theme, use a simple vanilla buttercream or one of Europe’s favorites: German buttercream, Swiss meringue frosting, French buttercream or Italian meringue buttercream. For a lighter option, simply ice the cake in homemade whipped cream.
Add a flavorful filling: White velvet cake’s flavor relies on good-quality vanilla and the tang from buttermilk and cream cheese. A great way to create more flavor without changing the recipe is through a flavorful filling. While assembling the cake, add your favorite jam, fresh fruit, or a lemon or passion fruit curd as a middle layer. Just be sure to line a ring of frosting on the perimeter of the cake layer to keep the filling from oozing out.
How to Store White Velvet Cake
To properly store velvet white cake leftovers, place a piece of storage wrap on any exposed sides of the cake that have been cut to prevent the cake from drying out. Cake domes are excellent for storing cakes, and if you find yourself making cakes fairly often, we highly recommend investing in one. Otherwise, wrap the cake in storage wrap or place slices in an airtight container. This cake can be kept in the fridge for up to four days.
