This Mom’s Best Cake is a classic, comforting dessert that embodies the warmth and love of home-baked goodness. With its tender crumb, rich flavor, and a hint of vanilla, this cake is perfect for any occasion—from birthday celebrations to Sunday dinners. It’s simple, versatile, and just the right level of sweetness, making it a family favorite that everyone will want seconds of.
This cake is incredibly easy to make and can be served on its own, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or with a luscious frosting of your choice. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this timeless recipe is sure to become one of your go-to desserts.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Eggs
- Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract to the batter, mixing until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix; mix just until the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Assemble
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost with your favorite frosting or simply dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, make sure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix more evenly and results in a tender cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the lightest texture.
- Testing for Doneness: Check the cakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon Cake: Add the zest of 2 lemons and replace 1/4 cup of the milk with freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Chocolate Cake: Replace 1/2 cup of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version of this classic cake.
- Coconut Cake: Fold in 1 cup of shredded coconut into the batter and top with coconut frosting for a tropical twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. Frost before serving.
Q: How do I store leftover cake?
A: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.
Mom’s Best Cake is a timeless dessert that brings a taste of home to any occasion. With its tender crumb and rich vanilla flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy it plain, with frosting, or dressed up with fruit, this cake is a simple yet delicious treat that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try, and bring a slice of comfort to your family table!
