Easy 8-Inch Family Cake Recipe: A Beginner‘s Guide to Baking Success375

Baking a cake can seem daunting, especially for beginners. Images of perfectly frosted masterpieces often fill our social media feeds, leaving us feeling intimidated. But the truth is, baking a delicious, crowd-pleasing 8-inch cake doesn't have to be complicated. This recipe is designed for simplicity, focusing on achieving a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight treat. No fancy equipment or years of experience required!

This recipe utilizes the classic "one bowl" method, minimizing cleanup and maximizing ease. We'll cover everything from choosing the right ingredients to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

This recipe makes an 8-inch round cake, perfect for serving 6-8 people. Adjust quantities proportionally for larger or smaller cakes.
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your cake. Make sure your flour is spooned and leveled, not scooped directly from the bag, to ensure accurate measurements.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: This is your leavening agent, giving your cake its rise. Check the expiration date to ensure it's still active.
¼ teaspoon baking soda: This works in conjunction with the baking powder to create a light and airy texture. Again, check the expiration date.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Room temperature butter is crucial for proper creaming. Don't melt it!
1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar: Adjust to your preferred level of sweetness. Brown sugar can be substituted for a richer flavor.
2 large eggs: Room temperature eggs will incorporate better into the batter. Bring them to room temperature by placing them in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor. Pure vanilla extract is preferred.
1 cup (240ml) milk: Whole milk is recommended for a richer cake, but you can use any kind of milk you prefer.

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan. This prevents the cake from sticking. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra security.

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl (or use the same bowl if you're confident!), cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake. This takes about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix; overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

Step 5: Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so start checking around the 30-minute mark.

Step 6: Cool and Frost (Optional): Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can frost it with your favorite frosting. A simple buttercream frosting or even a dusting of powdered sugar makes a delightful finish.

Tips for Success:
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients ensures even mixing and a better rise.
Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Get Creative with Frosting: Experiment with different frostings and toppings to personalize your cake.

This simple recipe is a great starting point for your baking journey. Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and frostings to create your own signature 8-inch family cake. Happy baking!

2025-05-06

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