Birthday Cake
Here’s a delightful recipe for a classic birthday cake that anyone can make. Perfect for celebrating special occasions, this cake is both tasty and visually appealing. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to bake this wonderful cake!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 250mg
Why Make This Birthday Cake
A birthday cake symbolizes celebration and joy, bringing people together to create lasting memories. This recipe yields a moist and soft cake, bursting with flavor thanks to the buttery richness and sweet vanilla essence. The easy-to-follow steps make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. With the option to customize your frosting and decorations, this cake can match any theme or personal preference, making it an ideal centerpiece for birthday festivities.
How to Make Birthday Cake
Crafting this birthday cake is a straightforward process that yields delightful results. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create something truly special that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- Frosting of choice (buttercream or cream cheese)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release after baking.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Cooking
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Next, stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Finishing
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, generously frost the top of one layer with your choice of frosting, place the other layer on top, and frost the top and sides. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles if desired.
How to Serve Birthday Cake
Serve this birthday cake fresh, accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat. It’s perfect for gathering family and friends around the table to celebrate.
How to Store Birthday Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its life to about a week.
Expert Tips for Perfect Birthday Cake
- Ensure that your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use high-quality vanilla extract for a richer flavor.
- Avoid overbaking; check your cakes a few minutes before the end time to ensure they stay moist.
- If you want a more decadent cake, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter.
- Feel free to experiment with different frosting flavors and colors to match your party theme.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Birthday Cake: Substitute cocoa powder for ½ cup of flour to make a rich chocolate cake.
- Lemon Birthday Cake: Add the zest of one lemon and replace some of the milk with lemon juice for a zesty twist.
- Carrot Birthday Cake: Mix in 1 cup of grated carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake one to two days in advance. Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. -
What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use applesauce (¼ cup per egg) or flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) as an egg substitute. -
How do I know when my cake is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. If it comes out wet, the cake needs more time. -
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the unfrosted cakes in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to three months. Just let them thaw completely before frosting. -
What frosting goes best with this cake?
Buttercream or cream cheese frosting are both excellent choices for this cake, adding a sweet, creamy texture that complements the lightness of the cake.
Conclusion
Baking a birthday cake doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious, homemade cake that will delight family and friends. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake a cake that celebrates life’s special moments! Enjoy the smiles and cheers when you present this delightful treat. Happy baking!
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Classic Birthday Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delightful birthday cake perfect for celebrating special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- Frosting of choice (buttercream or cream cheese)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Frost the top of one layer with frosting, place the other layer on top, and frost the top and sides. Add sprinkles if desired.
Notes
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
