This was my grandmother’s favorite cake!

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes of mixing. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, aromatic flavor.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. If you’re adding nuts, fold them in at this stage.
4. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Frost or Serve: Once cooled, you can either serve the cake plain, dusted with powdered sugar for a simple finish, or top it with your favorite frosting. If you want to replicate my grandmother’s style, a light dusting of powdered sugar is often the preferred topping, but feel free to add chocolate, vanilla, or cream cheese frosting if you prefer.

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Customizing the Cake

What makes this cake even more special is its versatility. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your personal preferences or to recreate your grandmother’s specific version. Here are a few ways to add your own twist:

• Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract to the batter for a different flavor profile. My grandmother often enjoyed adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Fruit Additions: Fold in fresh berries or chopped apples for a fruitier variation. You can even use canned pineapple for a tropical twist.
• Frosting Options: If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, consider frosting the cake with a rich buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.
• Nuts: My grandmother loved adding chopped walnuts or pecans to her cake for an added crunch, so feel free to include these for extra texture.

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Why This Cake Remains a Family Favorite

There’s something about a simple, homemade cake that connects us to our roots. The familiar ingredients and method evoke memories of family gatherings, celebrations, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. This cake, passed down from my grandmother, is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition that continues to bring us together, one slice at a time.

Every time I bake this cake, I’m reminded of my grandmother’s warm smile, the way she’d lovingly serve it with a cup of tea, and the conversations we shared over dessert. It’s a taste of the past that’s just as meaningful today as it was when she first made it.

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Conclusion

My grandmother’s favorite cake will always hold a special place in my heart, and baking it brings me closer to the memories and love we shared. It’s a reminder that the most cherished recipes are often the simplest, passed down from generation to generation with care and affection. I hope this recipe brings you the same comfort and nostalgia that it brings me, and that you, too, can share it with your loved ones, keeping the tradition alive for years to come.