Grandma Annie'S Plain Cake
A classic and versatile plain cake with subtle vanilla flavor, perfect for pairing with fresh fruit and toppings, ideal for family gatherings and everyday desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in flour and baking powder gradually.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with fresh fruit and your favorite topping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, consider using a mixture of half shortening and half unsweetened applesauce as a substitute. If you don't have baking powder, you can make your own by using 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 2 teaspoons of cream of tartar. Ensure to beat the eggs thoroughly for a fluffier texture. This cake also adapts well to various flavors; try adding lemon zest or almond extract for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
This plain cake is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a simple dessert dusted with powdered sugar, or dress it up with whipped cream and fresh berries for a more elegant presentation. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit and a scoop of ice cream, making it a delightful treat for gatherings. For a savory option, consider serving alongside dishes like Chafing Dish Mushrooms.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To refresh the cake, you can microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months, thawing at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Annie'S Plain Cake contains roughly 477 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 596mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
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
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking periodically.
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).