The Ultimate Cake Recipe: Moist, Fluffy, and Irresistibly Delicious
If you’re looking for a cake recipe that’s guaranteed to impress both friends and family, you’ve just found it! This cake is everything you want in a dessert—moist, fluffy, and bursting with rich flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is a must-try. The best part? It’s simple enough for beginners but indulgent enough for seasoned bakers to enjoy. From birthdays to holidays, this cake will quickly become your go-to recipe for any celebration.
We all know that a great cake can turn any moment into a memory. So, what makes this cake special? It’s the perfect balance of lightness and richness, with just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, it’s versatile—you can personalize it with your favorite frosting or add-ins like berries, chocolate chips, or nuts. It’s an all-around winner!
Let’s dive into the details of making this cake, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought options again.
The Ultimate Cake
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- Optional: 1 cup chocolate chips or berries for added flavor
Frosting (Optional):
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed. This should take about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk: Slowly add the dry ingredients in batches, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the frosting (optional): In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until the frosting is fluffy. Add milk and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth and spreadable.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread frosting on top, and then carefully place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake, and add any optional decorations, like sprinkles or fresh berries.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients: Bring your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother batter and better texture in your cake.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Stir until everything is just combined.
- Customize your frosting: Experiment with different types of frosting like chocolate ganache, cream cheese frosting, or even whipped cream if you want to add a personal touch.