Birthday Cake Recipe – Classic, Moist, and Perfect for Celebrations

Birthday Cake Recipe

Everyone loves a classic birthday cake, and this recipe delivers a moist, tender vanilla cake paired with a smooth buttercream frosting. It’s perfect for any birthday or special occasion, and can easily be decorated with sprinkles or other toppings to make it festive and fun. Follow this simple recipe to make a cake that will bring joy to your celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

For the Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

To Make the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

To Make the Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
2. Add the vanilla extract, salt, and heavy cream, beating on high speed for 3-4 minutes, or until light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing with an offset spatula.
2. Decorate with sprinkles, candles, or any other desired toppings.

Tips

For an extra moist cake, add 1/4 cup of sour cream to the batter. You can also substitute almond extract for half of the vanilla for a different flavor twist. To make it extra festive, mix sprinkles into the batter for a funfetti version.

FAQs

• Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them wrapped tightly at room temperature. Frost the cake the day you plan to serve it.
• Can I use different frosting? Absolutely, cream cheese frosting or chocolate frosting are great alternatives to the classic buttercream.
• How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan? Grease and flour the pans thoroughly, or use parchment paper rounds for extra assurance.
• Can I make a gluten-free version? Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.

Conclusion

This birthday cake is a classic vanilla delight that’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for celebrating special occasions. With a creamy buttercream frosting and customizable decorations, this cake is sure to bring smiles to everyone at the party. Bake this cake for your next birthday celebration and enjoy the joy of homemade goodness!