Cake Recipe

This classic cake recipe is a simple, reliable choice for a soft, tender, and fluffy homemade cake using basic pantry ingredients. Its mild sweetness and delicate crumb make it ideal for everyday baking, beginner bakers, or family activities. The neutral flavor works perfectly with frosting, layered fillings, or served plain alongside tea, coffee, or milk. You can also adapt it into cupcakes or add flavors such as cocoa, citrus zest, or extracts to suit your preference.

The recipe focuses on straightforward steps and techniques that consistently deliver a light, moist cake, making it an excellent base for creative decoration or casual enjoyment.

Ingredients

• 1 cup white sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup whole milk, at room temperature

Directions

1. Prepare the pan and preheat oven
   Gather all ingredients before starting. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch square cake pan to prevent sticking.
2. Cream butter and sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer for 3 to 4 minutes, until pale, light, and fluffy. This step incorporates air, creating a tender texture.
3. Add eggs and vanilla
   Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing briefly after each addition until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract to distribute the flavor evenly.
4. Combine dry and wet ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three portions, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense cake.
5. Bake the cake
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and serve
   Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto the rack, remove the pan, and allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or slicing. Serve plain or with your favorite icing.

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Yield: 1 (9-inch square) cake