Birthday Cake + Perfect for Celebrations
Short introduction
A birthday cake is a classic symbol of celebration and joy, often enjoyed during festivities to mark another year of life. This delicious treat can bring a smile to any face and is perfect for everyone, from children to adults. The fun of choosing flavors, decorating, and sharing it with friends and family makes it a memorable highlight of any birthday celebration.
Why you’ll love it
This birthday cake recipe is delightful and simple to make. It’s an easy way to create a scrumptious dessert that suits all tastes. You can customize it in various ways, ensuring it fits the preferences of the birthday person. With its light and fluffy texture along with a heavenly vanilla flavor, this cake is sure to be a favorite. Plus, homemade cakes save money compared to store-bought options, allowing you to express love and creativity in your baking.
Ingredients
To make this birthday cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
Substitutions & key variations
If you want to make some adjustments, consider these substitutions:
- Instead of all-purpose flour, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture.
- Coconut milk or almond milk can be great substitutes for regular milk.
- You can replace unsalted butter with vegetable oil for a slightly different taste.
- To modify the flavor, add cocoa powder for a chocolate birthday cake or change the vanilla extract to almond extract for a unique twist.
- For a fun layer cake, split the batter into three or four pans, and sandwich layers with frosting between them.
Step-by-step
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. This prepares the pans for easy release once the cakes are baked.
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential, as it introduces air into the mixture, giving the cake its airy texture.
Step 3
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for that delicious flavor.
Step 4
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually alternate adding this dry mixture and the milk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the cake light.
Step 5
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Success tips
For the best results, consider these tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, as it promotes better mixing and a smoother batter.
- Check the cakes as they bake and avoid opening the oven door too soon, as this can cause them to sink.
- The cakes are done when they spring back when lightly touched in the center, or a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
How to serve
Slice the cake into pieces and serve on individual plates. You can top it with frosting, sprinkles, or even fresh fruit. It tastes great on its own or with a scoop of ice cream alongside it for extra indulgence.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds until warm, or enjoy it chilled!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just store it properly and frost it when you are ready to serve.
2. What frosting goes well with this birthday cake?
Buttercream frosting is a classic choice, but cream cheese frosting and whipped cream also complement it beautifully.
3. Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
4. Can I add food coloring to the batter?
Yes! Feel free to add food coloring for a fun and colorful cake. Just be careful not to add too much, or it may alter the texture.
5. What can I serve with this cake?
This cake goes well with ice cream, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for added decadence.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
While it’s important to enjoy treats like this birthday cake in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet celebrating special moments. Each slice can vary in calories based on the frosting and servings.
Conclusion
Making your own birthday cake is a rewarding experience that brings joy to celebrations. With this easy recipe, you can create a delightful treat that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, get baking, and make someone’s birthday extra special!
Links to related recipes
Birthday Cake
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with cake flour for a lighter texture.
- 1.5 cups sugar
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter Can replace with vegetable oil.
- 1 cup milk Coconut or almond milk can be used as substitutes.
- 3.5 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Can be substituted with almond extract.
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until it becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually alternate adding this dry mixture and the milk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
- Mix just until combined, avoiding over-mixing.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Notes
Birthday Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups sugar
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk
- 3.5 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually alternate adding this dry mixture and the milk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.