Making a cake from scratch can be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences in the kitchen. Not only do you get the pleasure of baking, but the aroma of a freshly baked cake filling your home is unbeatable. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, celebration, or simply a sweet treat, following a simple method ensures a moist, fluffy, and flavorful cake. Here’s a complete guide to making a classic homemade cake.
Ingredients
For a basic vanilla cake, you will need:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
Optional for decoration: frosting, sprinkles, or fresh fruit
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper. Properly preparing your pans ensures the cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Setting the dry ingredients aside helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3–5 minutes. Creaming incorporates air, which helps make the cake light and tender.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract. Adding eggs slowly ensures the batter stays smooth and doesn’t curdle.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk in two additions. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can make the cake dense.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven too early, as this can cause the cake to sink.
Step 7: Cool and Decorate
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, frost with your favorite icing, add sprinkles, or decorate with fresh fruit.
Tips for a Perfect Cake
- Use room-temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing.
- Measure flour carefully; too much flour can make the cake dry.
- Don’t overbake; check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
- Experiment with flavors by adding cocoa powder, lemon zest, or almond extract.
Making a cake from scratch may seem intimidating at first, but with patience and attention to detail, anyone can bake a beautiful, delicious cake. The key is following each step carefully and enjoying the process — because the best part is always the first bite.
