1-2-3-4 White Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A classic white cake with tender crumb and delicate vanilla flavor, perfect for celebrations or everyday desserts, suitable for all occasions and customizations.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3 cups flour
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients until well combined.
  2. Beat with a mixer for 5 minutes.
  3. Pour batter into 2 greased and floured 9-inch pans.
  4. Bake at 350°F for approximately 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before mixing. If you're out of milk, you can substitute with buttermilk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk. For added flavor, consider incorporating lemon zest or almond extract. To enhance moisture, add 1/4 cup of sour cream or yogurt to the batter.

Serving Suggestions

This 1-2-3-4 White Cake pairs beautifully with Strawberry Chantilly for a delightful dessert. Serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Consider topping with fresh berries or drizzling with a simple white cream sauce for added indulgence.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftover cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze slices for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of 1-2-3-4 White Cake contains roughly 280 calories, with 4g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 537mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).

280 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.7g 7% DV
Total Fat 1.6g 2% DV
Carbs 39.7g 14% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 5.4g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 536.6mg 23% DV
Potassium 222mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 43.7mg 15% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 11.7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 7.4mg 8% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 141.1mg 11% DV
Iron 1.6mg 9% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but be sure to choose a high-quality, stick form margarine for the best results. Margarine may slightly alter the flavor and texture, so keep an eye on the consistency of your batter.

What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?

A sinking cake can result from overmixing the batter or underbaking. Ensure you mix until just combined and check your oven temperature with a thermometer to avoid underbaking. If it sinks, you can still serve it; simply slice the top to create an even layer.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, let it come to room temperature or reheat gently for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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