How to Make a Simple Cake

Making a Simple Cake: It's Easier Than You Think!

Want to bake a cake but feel intimidated? Don't! This guide makes it easy, even for beginners. I'll walk you through it step-by-step. Let's get baking!

I. Ingredients: What You'll Need

The secret to a great cake? Good ingredients! Here's what you'll grab:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour: This gives the cake its structure. Think of it like the bones of your cake!
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: This makes the cake rise. It's like magic!
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Helps with rising and makes it soft.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors. A little pinch goes a long way.
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and keeps it moist. Make sure it's soft, like room temperature butter.
• 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar: For sweetness, of course!
• 2 large eggs: These bind everything together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds yummy flavor and aroma.
• 1 cup (240ml) milk: More moisture for a tender cake.

Want to get creative? Try these:

• Cocoa powder for a chocolate cake – yum!
• Lemon zest and extract for a zesty lemon cake
• Cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm spice cake

II. Your Baking Toolkit

Before you start mixing, gather your tools. It makes things so much easier!

• Two 9-inch round cake pans: Grease and flour them well so your cake doesn't stick.
• Mixing bowls: You'll need at least two – one big and one medium.
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand): Makes mixing a breeze!
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key in baking.
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon: For scraping the bowl.
• Baking sheet: To hold your cake pans.

III. Baking Time!

Now for the fun part!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Even baking is important.
2. Grease and flour your pans. This is crucial to prevent sticking!
3. Cream together butter and sugar. Use your mixer until it's light and fluffy. This is important for a light cake.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg.
5. Add the vanilla. Mix until it's all combined.
6. Combine dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
7. Gradually add dry to wet ingredients. Alternate with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Don't overmix!
8. Divide the batter. Put it evenly into your prepared pans.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Or, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

IV. Frosting (Optional, But Fun!)

This cake is delicious on its own, but frosting makes it extra special! A simple buttercream frosting is easy to make.

Simple Buttercream:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions: Beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla.

Once cool, frost your cake. Enjoy!

V. Baking Tips

• Room temperature ingredients are best for even mixing.
• Don't overmix! Overmixing makes a tough cake.
• Test for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it's done.
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

VI. Variations – Get Creative!

This recipe is a great starting point. Have fun experimenting!

• Add fruits like berries or bananas.
• Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans.
• Use different extracts, like almond or lemon.
• Explore different frostings!
• Decorate with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or even fresh flowers!

Baking a cake is rewarding! I hope this guide helps you create a delicious masterpiece. Happy baking!