Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a bakery of dreams? Get ready for the most mouthwatering, foolproof cake recipe that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This King Arthur Flour Cake is not just a dessert; it's a magical creation that combines simple ingredients into a heavenly, moist masterpiece that melts in your mouth. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver a showstopping cake that looks like it came straight from a professional bakery!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
- Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Start by adding one-third of the flour mixture, followed by half of the milk, and continue this process until all ingredients are combined. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s), spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
- Once cooled, you can frost the cake with your favorite frosting or serve it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Slice the cake into 8 servings and enjoy your delicious King Arthur Flour Cake!
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all your ingredients, especially butter and milk, are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother, more evenly mixed batter.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
- Check Your Baking Powder: Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise and texture. If it's been sitting in your pantry for more than 6 months, replace it.
- Even Baking: Rotate your cake pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding off.
- Storage Tip: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Customization: Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or berries to make this recipe your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
