Grandma Bonnie'S Favorite Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Grandma Bonnie's Favorite Cake is a classic, moist vanilla sponge with a tender crumb, perfect for family gatherings or celebrations. Its simple ingredients and comforting flavor make it a timeless choice for any occasion, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups flour
  • 1 1/3 cups sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 cup milk

Instructions

  1. Beat all ingredients except for 1/2 cup of milk on low speed for 1 minute.
  2. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of milk and beat for 1 more minute.
  3. Pour the batter into a prepared pan.
  4. Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 to 35 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter cake, consider sifting the flour before measuring. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter or margarine. For added flavor, try incorporating lemon zest or almond extract. Remember to check the cake for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze. Pair it with fresh berries or whipped cream for a lovely dessert presentation. It also complements well with a scoop of ice cream, making it a perfect treat for summer gatherings. For an exciting twist, serve it alongside slices of Hummingbird Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma Bonnie'S Favorite Cake contains roughly 245 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1124mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).

245 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 15.4g 20% DV
Carbs 20.4g 7% DV
Fiber 3g 11% DV
Sugar 1.9g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1124.2mg 49% DV
Potassium 196.6mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 4.1mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.2mcg
Vitamin C 24.6mg 27% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 156.5mg 12% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. To maintain moisture, consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk. Alternatively, try a mix of both flours for a lighter result.

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

A sinking cake can be caused by overmixing the batter or opening the oven door too early. Ensure you mix just until combined and check for doneness before the timer goes off. If this happens, you can turn it into a trifle with layers of whipped cream and fruit.

How can I make this cake more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in some citrus zest. Vanilla extract can also be increased for a stronger taste. For a rich twist, consider serving the cake with a scoop of Cafe-Rice Pudding on the side.

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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