Name: JFK Wedding Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups cake flour; 2 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar; 5 egg whites; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; Fresh berries (optional for garnish)

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I first made this JFK wedding cake recipe after reading about the elegant, understated cake served at the Kennedy wedding so I became inspired to recreate it with a soft vanilla crumb and silky white frosting and the result was a stunning classic layer cake that felt both timeless and celebratory

Because I love old-fashioned recipes that tell a story this cake has become one of my favorites for anniversaries and special events and it’s light fluffy richly flavored and decorated simply with fresh berries and rosettes just like a true presidential centerpiece

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Cake flour – Gives the layers a tender soft crumb
Baking powder – Helps the cake rise with a delicate lift
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly and helps with structure
Egg whites – Create a light texture and keep the cake beautifully white
Whole milk – Keeps the cake moist and creamy
Vanilla extract – The classic flavor base of this elegant cake
Heavy cream – Used for the whipped frosting
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting without graininess
Fresh berries – Optional for topping and décor

Tools You’ll Need

Stand mixer or hand mixer – For whipping the batter and frosting until fluffy
Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accuracy in baking
Cake pans (3 8-inch rounds) – To bake the classic triple layer
Cooling racks – Allow the layers to cool evenly
Offset spatula – Helps spread the frosting smoothly
Piping bag and star tip – For decorating with rosettes if desired

Instructions

Step 1:

I preheat my oven to 350°F and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper then lightly grease the sides

Step 2:

In a bowl I sift together 2 1/2 cups of cake flour with 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt and set it aside

Step 3:

In a large mixing bowl I cream 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 3/4 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy then I slowly beat in 5 egg whites one at a time

Step 4:

I mix in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract and alternate adding the dry ingredients and 1 cup of whole milk beginning and ending with the flour mixture and mixing just until combined

Step 5:

I divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes until the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out clean

Step 6:

I let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto racks to cool completely

Step 7:

For the frosting I whip 2 cups of heavy cream with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until soft peaks form and then I frost between the layers and around the cake

Step 8:

To decorate I use a piping bag to create simple rosettes on top and add a few fresh berries for an elegant final touch

Tips

You can use almond extract in place of vanilla for a more traditional vintage flavor

If your layers dome slightly I trim them to ensure an even stack

For a firmer frosting I sometimes stabilize the whipped cream with a spoonful of mascarpone

Ways to Serve

At a wedding shower or anniversary party

With champagne for an elegant dessert pairing

As a centerpiece for a vintage-themed brunch

Sliced and plated with a berry compote

Frozen as individual slices for special treats later

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boxed cake mix for this JFK wedding cake recipe?

Yes if you’re short on time but I recommend enhancing it with vanilla and egg whites for that classic flavor

What frosting was on the original JFK wedding cake?

Traditionally it was a simple buttercream but this whipped version offers a lighter modern take

Can I make this JFK wedding cake recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely you can bake the layers a day ahead and assemble before serving

How do I transport this JFK wedding cake recipe safely?

Use a cake carrier or box with non-slip matting and chill it slightly before moving to keep the frosting firm

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this JFK wedding cake recipe and enjoy the history and flavor in every bite! Whether you serve it for a celebration or simply to impress your guests it’s a cake that always leaves a beautiful impression. I’d love to hear how you make it your own!

Happy Cooking!