Cake From Scratch
A moist, buttery cake with a tender crumb and classic vanilla flavor, perfect for celebrations or everyday desserts. Its versatile texture makes it suited for layered cakes or sheet pans, appealing to both novice bakers and seasoned pastry enthusiasts seeking a comforting homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter until smooth.
- Add sugar and continue creaming until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add vanilla extract.
- Add flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add 1/2 cup of milk after adding the first cup of flour and mix well.
- Add another 1/2 cup of milk after adding the second cup of flour.
- Add the third cup of flour and mix well.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
- This batter can also be divided into three 9-inch layer pans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with sour cream. If you don't have self-rising flour, combine all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. If desired, add a touch of lemon zest for brightness or incorporate chocolate chips for a delightful twist. This cake serves as a wonderful base for toppings like fresh fruit or whipped cream.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect for birthdays or special occasions, and it pairs beautifully with Aunt Pat's Onion Rings as a savory side. Serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a simple glaze for added sweetness. Fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream on the side can elevate the dessert further. For a fun twist, try adding a layer of chocolate frosting for a decadent finish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze slices in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cake From Scratch contains roughly 632 calories, with 5g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A.
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 a different type of flour for this cake?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour by adding 1 tablespoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt for every cup of flour used. This will help the cake rise properly while maintaining a similar texture.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. Depending on your oven, baking time may vary, so keep an eye on it in the last few minutes.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just store it properly as mentioned earlier. If you're icing it, wait until the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
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).