Grandma Addie'S Plain Cake For Little Don
A moist, flavorful plain cake with subtle lemon and vanilla notes, perfect for any occasion and loved by those who enjoy simple, comforting desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Mix with an electric mixer on high for 2 minutes or by hand using 300 strokes.
- Pour the batter into two prepared cake layers or a Bundt pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Serve plain or with your favorite icing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of self-rising flour. If you don't have lemon flavoring, a splash of fresh lemon juice can be a delightful substitute. Ensure the margarine is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. You can also fold in some chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor, or use this cake as a base for the Good Peanut Icing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cake plain for a simple treat, or dress it up with your favorite icing for a special occasion. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. You can also use it as a base for a layered cake with fresh fruit, similar to the Cherry Pie Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. For reheating, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy it warm, or warm the entire cake in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Addie'S Plain Cake For Little Don contains roughly 349 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 29g fat.
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 replace margarine with butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute butter for margarine in equal amounts. While margarine may give a slightly different texture, butter will add a rich flavor to the cake. Just ensure that the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick or a cake tester in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is ready. If it has wet batter on it, bake for an additional 5 minutes and check again.
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 tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld. Just remember to frost it closer to serving time to maintain freshness.
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).