Cake Recipe

A delicious and moist cake perfect for any celebration.

Baking a cake is an art that dates back centuries, with each culture bringing its own unique twist to this beloved dessert. Traditionally, cakes were made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, but over time, recipes have evolved to incorporate different flavors, ingredients, and techniques. In this detailed recipe, we will guide you through the process of baking a classic, yet richly flavorful cake that is sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. The key to a perfect cake lies in balancing the ingredients and following the steps precisely. This recipe will break down each stage, from mixing the batter to baking and decorating, ensuring you achieve a cake that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, this comprehensive guide will help you create a masterpiece that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Nutrition

Calories: ~350 calories

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk and whole milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice until evenly incorporated.
7. Divide and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Prepare Frosting: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare your favorite frosting.
9. Frost and Decorate: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.
10. Serve: Slice and serve your delicious homemade cake. Enjoy!

Enjoy your beautifully homemade cake with friends and family. For best results, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps the batter to come together more smoothly. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake light and airy. If you're looking to add a personal touch, consider using seasonal fruits or homemade jams between the cake layers for added flavor and texture. Happy baking!