Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soft cake is a classic favorite for many reasons. It’s light, fluffy, and tender, with a moist texture that melts in your mouth. The secret lies in the balance of ingredients like eggs, milk, and butter, which work together to lock in moisture and ensure a perfect crumb. It’s a straightforward recipe with easy-to-follow steps, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Plus, the gentle vanilla flavor makes it versatile for customization with different flavors or fillings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups
- Granulated sugar – 1 ½ cups
- Baking powder – 2 tsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Eggs – 3 large
- Milk – 1 cup
- Unsalted butter (melted) – ½ cup
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
Directions
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Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your cake pan. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Sift Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures a light and airy batter.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light and frothy. Gradually add in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
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Merge the Mixtures: Slowly fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix gently to maintain the lightness.
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Fill the Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Bake time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Version: Add ¼ cup of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
- Fruit Flavors: You can fold in fruit purees such as lemon, strawberry, or even a bit of mashed bananas for added moisture and flavor.
- Dietary Modifications: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, or use flaxseed eggs and plant-based milk for a vegan version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat the entire cake in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
FAQs
Q1: What makes this soft cake recipe so moist and tender?
The combination of milk, butter, and eggs ensures the cake stays moist, while the method of folding dry ingredients gently prevents overmixing, which can lead to dryness.
Q2: Can I modify this recipe for gluten-free or vegan diets?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and substitute eggs with flaxseed eggs or aquafaba, as well as plant-based milk to make this recipe vegan.
Q3: How can I ensure my cake has a fluffy texture?
To achieve a fluffy cake, beat your eggs and sugar until frothy to incorporate air, and fold the dry ingredients carefully to avoid deflating the batter.
Q4: What common mistakes should I avoid for a tender cake?
Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure precise measurements. Overmixing can make the cake dense, and inaccurate measurements can affect the texture.
Q5: Can I add other flavors to this cake?
Absolutely! You can experiment with lemon zest, cinnamon, or even a few drops of almond extract to create different flavor profiles.
Q6: Is it okay to bake this cake in a different-sized pan?
If you’re using a larger or smaller pan, adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan may require less time, while a smaller pan may need more time to bake.
Q7: How do I know when the cake is done?
Use the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Q8: Can I frost this cake?
Yes, this soft cake pairs wonderfully with any frosting. A simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting complements its light texture.
Q9: How can I prevent the cake from sinking in the middle?
Ensure the oven is preheated, and avoid opening the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking. Also, make sure the batter is not overmixed.
Q10: Can I double this recipe for a larger cake?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may need a few extra minutes.
Conclusion
This soft cake recipe is not just about making a dessert—it’s about creating a memorable experience. With its moist, tender crumb and light texture, this cake is sure to be a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy it as is or with your favorite frosting, this cake is a perfect way to share a little joy with friends and family. Happy baking!
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Soft Cake Recipe: A Light and Fluffy Delight
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Discover the ultimate soft cake recipe that guarantees a moist, fluffy, and tender texture. This easy-to-follow cake is perfect for all occasions, from celebrations to cozy afternoons. With simple ingredients and tips for customization, this cake will be a hit every time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your cake pan. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and frothy. Gradually add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Merge the Mixtures: Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Fill the Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For variations, add cocoa powder for a chocolate version or fruit purees for added flavor.
- This cake can be made gluten-free or vegan with the right substitutions.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
