Happy Day Or One-Bowl Cake
A moist, tender one-bowl cake with a classic vanilla flavor, perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure into a sifter the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Measure the shortening into a mixing bowl.
- Stir the shortening just to soften. Add the dry ingredients and about 3/4 cup of milk.
- Beat for 2 minutes. Add the eggs and remaining milk, then beat for 1 minute longer.
- Bake in a moderate oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour and dry ingredients twice before mixing. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor, or use a plant-based butter for a vegetarian option. If you like a sweeter cake, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract for depth, or mix in chocolate chips for a delightful variation.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat. Pair it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a lovely presentation. It also pairs beautifully with Mrs. English'S Pound Cake for a charming dessert spread at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Happy Day Or One-Bowl Cake contains roughly 1152 calories, with 8g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2311mg per serving (100% 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
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cake a day in advance. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container. If you’d like to frost it, wait until just before serving to keep the frosting fresh. This method is particularly useful if you're preparing for a special occasion.
What can I use instead of eggs?
For an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed banana for each egg. This will help maintain moisture in the cake. Another option is to use 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
How can I make this cake more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the batter. You could also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm touch. For a chocolatey twist, mix in cocoa powder or swap out some flour for your favorite cocoa to create a chocolate version of this delightful cake.
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).