Are you a beginner looking to dive into the delightful world of baking? Starting with a simple yet satisfying recipe can make all the difference. Today, I'm sharing with you a fail-proof Perfect Yellow Cake Recipe that's not only easy to make but also guarantees a moist and delicious cake that will impress anyone. Here's how you can master this classic:
Ingredients
For your yellow cake, gather these simple ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
🍰 Note: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a consistent batter texture.
Preparation
Let’s start preparing your cake:
Prepping the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or two 8-inch round pans with butter or non-stick spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Creaming Butter and Incorporating Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter until smooth. Add the oil and continue to mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract.
- Alternate between adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Baking
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan(s). Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes for one 9-inch cake or 20-25 minutes for two 8-inch cakes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
🌡️ Note: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your cake to avoid overbaking. If the cake starts to brown too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly.
Frosting
Once your cake is cooled, it’s time to frost:
Frosting Steps
- Place the first layer of cake on a plate, flat side down, if you have baked in layers.
- Spread a generous amount of your favorite frosting or buttercream over the top. Place the second layer on top, flat side up, and frost the top and sides.
🧁 Note: For an easy and delicious option, try a simple buttercream frosting made from butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Remember to let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
Serving Suggestions
Your yellow cake can be served in numerous ways:
- Simple Elegance: Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Fruit Topping: Add fresh berries or slices of fruit on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Icing Variations: Experiment with different frostings like chocolate ganache or whipped cream for variety.
Variations
Here are some fun and easy variations you can try:
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Marble Cake | Mix a portion of the batter with cocoa powder and swirl it into the plain batter before baking. |
| Lemon Zest | Add grated zest of one lemon into the batter for a citrusy twist. |
| Chocolate Chips | Fold in a cup of mini chocolate chips for a delightful texture contrast. |
🎉 Note: If you choose to add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit, fold them gently into the batter to maintain its fluffiness.
With this Perfect Yellow Cake Recipe, you're on your way to becoming a home baking maestro. Whether you're baking for a birthday, celebration, or simply to treat yourself, this cake's versatility makes it perfect for any occasion. Baking is not just about the food; it's about the joy and warmth it brings to those who share it. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the baking begin. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and most importantly, share the love.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
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Yes, but reduce the amount of salt in the recipe by half to avoid an overly salty cake.
What can I substitute for whole milk?
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You can use an equal amount of almond milk, oat milk, or a mix of half-and-half with water for a similar texture and richness.
Can this cake be made in advance?
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Absolutely! Bake the cake, cool completely, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
