Creating an indulgent, whole cake at home is not only a delightful experience but also a testament to one's culinary skills. With straightforward steps, ingredients you might already have in your pantry, and the joy of baking, this whole cake recipe promises a deliciously moist and flavorful outcome that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether it's for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, let's dive into the simple art of cake making.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 1⁄2 cups of granulated sugar
- 3⁄4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup of milk
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of salt
Preparation Steps
Preheat Your Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch cake pan or use parchment paper for easier release.
Mixing the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This can take about 3-4 minutes on medium-high speed if using a mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract with the last egg.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
📘 Note: Alternating the addition of dry and wet ingredients helps to keep the batter from curdling, ensuring a smoother cake texture.
Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting and Decorating
- Once the cake is cool, you can proceed with decorating. A simple buttercream or whipped cream frosting works wonderfully, but feel free to get creative with toppings like fresh fruit, chocolate ganache, or even edible flowers.
Tips for the Perfect Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Check Oven Temperature: Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is heating correctly.
- Cool Properly: Cooling the cake in the pan first and then transferring it to a rack helps to set the structure.
In the end, this recipe offers not just a delicious cake but also the joy of baking at home. The ability to craft something that brings joy and indulgence from simple ingredients is truly special. You’ve learned the basics of mixing, baking, and decorating, setting the foundation for more advanced baking adventures. Remember, every bake is a chance to learn, so keep experimenting with flavors, textures, and decoration techniques.
Can I substitute butter with oil in this recipe?
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Yes, you can. Use 1⁄2 cup of neutral-flavored oil (like canola or vegetable oil) for each cup of butter. This will yield a slightly different texture, often moister.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
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You can certainly mix this cake by hand. It will take more effort, but the result can be just as good. Ensure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly by hand.
How do I store leftover cake?
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Leftover cake should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze the cake slices.
