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Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Frost
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, frost with your favorite frosting (buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even whipped cream) and decorate as desired.
Tips for the Best Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them combine more smoothly, resulting in a light, fluffy cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Add-ins: You can easily customize this basic cake by adding chocolate chips, berries, nuts, or even citrus zest to the batter for extra flavor.
- Frosting Variations: Experiment with different frostings, such as chocolate buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
This cake can be enjoyed in so many ways:
- Simple and Sweet: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream for a classic treat.
- Celebration Cake: Decorate with colorful sprinkles, edible glitter, or themed decorations for birthdays or holidays.
- Fruit-Filled: Add fresh berries or fruit compote on top or between the layers for a fruity twist.
Why This Cake Recipe is a Must-Try
This easy and delicious cake recipe is the foundation for countless variations and endless possibilities. Its soft texture, simple ingredients, and versatility make it a go-to dessert for any occasion. Whether you prefer it with rich frosting or a light glaze, this cake will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
So next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, or if you have a special event coming up, this cake recipe is all you need to create a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy!
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