Plain Cake
A classic, moist plain cake with a tender crumb and subtle vanilla flavor, perfect for everyday desserts or special occasions. Its simple ingredients and straightforward method make it suitable for bakers of all levels seeking a comforting homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream oleo and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Dissolve soda in hot water and add to the mixture along with buttermilk.
- Gradually add flour to the mixture, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour batter into a greased Bundt pan and bake for 1 hour at 300°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter (oleo) is at room temperature before creaming with sugar. You can substitute buttermilk with milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tang. If you're out of oleo, unsalted butter works well. For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla.
Serving Suggestions
This plain cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a simple dessert. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings. For a twist, serve it alongside a slice of Custard Pie(Makes Own Crust) or as a base for layered cakes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover plain cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave slices for a few seconds until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain Cake contains roughly 308 calories, with 7g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (15% 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 use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it will result in a denser cake. If you want to keep it light, consider using half whole wheat and half plain flour for a balanced texture.
What can I do if my cake is dry?
If your cake turns out dry, you can brush it with a simple syrup made of equal parts sugar and water. This adds moisture and sweetness. Additionally, ensure you don't overbake the cake, as that can lead to dryness.
How can I make this cake more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your plain cake, consider adding ingredients like citrus zest, chocolate chips, or nuts. You could also incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to give it a warm, aromatic touch.
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).