Wholesome Family Recipes - A Lifetime of Delicious Memories

Ingredients

1 cup of granulated sugar
2 cups of all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
1 cup of whole milk

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Beat the eggs into the butter and sugar mixture one at a time, making sure each egg is incorporated before adding the next.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in the flour mixture and milk, alternating between the two, starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until the batter is smooth.
Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tools for making

Mixing bowls - You'll need a few mixing bowls to combine ingredients.
Whisk - A whisk will help you beat the butter, sugar, and eggs together.
Measuring cups and spoons - Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients.
Spatula - Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl and smooth the batter.
Baking pan - A greased baking pan is needed to bake the cake.
Toothpick - You'll use a toothpick to check if the cake is fully baked by inserting it into the center.
Wire rack - A wire rack is useful for cooling the cake after baking.

Recipe variations

Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a hint of spice.
Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Use almond extract instead of vanilla extract for a nutty flavor.
Add 1 cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for added texture.
Replace the milk with buttermilk for a tangier taste.
Add 1 cup of fresh berries or diced fruit to the batter for a fruity twist.
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Make it a lemon cake by adding the zest of 1 lemon to the batter and drizzling a lemon glaze on top.
For a vegan option, replace the butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk and egg replacer.

Recipe overview

This simple yet delightful cake recipe is perfect for all occasions. Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, you'll find this recipe straightforward and easy to follow. The resulting cake is a moist, delicate treat with a wonderful vanilla flavor. From the initial mixing of ingredients to the final cooling process, every step brings you closer to a delectable dessert you will be proud to share. The lovely aroma that fills your kitchen as this cake bakes is simply an added bonus. Expect a baking journey that is as enjoyable as the final product is delicious. Happy baking!

Common questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? - Yes, you can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter. Just be aware that it may slightly affect the overall taste of the cake.
Can I substitute whole milk with a different type of milk? - Yes, you can substitute whole milk with any other type of milk such as skim milk, 2% milk, or almond milk. However, the texture and flavor of the cake may vary slightly.
Can I add any additional flavors or mix-ins to the cake batter? - Absolutely! You can experiment with adding different flavors like lemon zest, almond extract, or even chocolate chips to the batter to customize the taste of the cake.
How should I store the finished cake? - Once fully cooled, you can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate it for longer freshness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? - Yes, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. However, it's important to note that the texture and outcome may differ from the original recipe.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining ingredients.
Spatula - Used for smoothing the batter in the baking pan.
Baking Pan - A pan for baking the cake.
Wire Rack - Used for cooling the cake.
Toothpick - Used to check if the cake is fully baked.

Origin stories

This classic cake recipe, as simple and delightful as it appears, holds its origins in the heart of the United Kingdom during the early 17th century. Back then, it was known as a "Pound Cake" because of its simple recipe that called for a pound each of butter, flour, sugar, and eggs. Over time, as baking science evolved and measures became more refined, the recipe was tweaked to achieve a lighter and fluffier texture, but the essence created centuries ago still lingers in every slice. A piece of this cake is not only a sweet treat but also a bite into culinary history itself.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.