Easy Plain Cake Recipe: Bake From Scratch!

Sep 13, 2025 by Rajiv Sharma 43 views

Hey guys! Ever wanted to bake a simple, delicious cake from scratch but felt intimidated? Don't worry, this guide is for you! We're going to break down how to make a classic plain cake that's perfect for any occasion – or just a tasty treat on a regular day. This recipe is so easy, even baking newbies can nail it. So, let's get started and learn how to bake a simple plain cake from scratch!

Why Bake a Plain Cake?

Before we dive into the recipe, you might be wondering, "Why a plain cake?" Well, there are tons of reasons! Firstly, a plain cake is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. You can frost it with anything you like – from a rich chocolate ganache to a light and tangy cream cheese frosting. Add fresh fruit, sprinkles, or even edible flowers to make it extra special. Secondly, it's a fantastic base for more complex desserts. Think trifles, layered cakes, or even cake pops! Plus, knowing how to make a good plain cake is a fundamental baking skill that will serve you well in all your future baking adventures. It's simple, classic, and incredibly versatile, making it a staple in any baker's repertoire. This simple recipe uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it a convenient option when you crave something homemade. Ultimately, mastering a plain cake recipe empowers you to customize and create endless variations, ensuring you always have a go-to dessert for any occasion. So, let's unleash your inner baker and dive into the delicious world of plain cakes!

Ingredients You'll Need

Okay, let's gather our ingredients. The beauty of this recipe is that it uses pretty standard baking staples. You probably have most of these in your kitchen already! Here's what you'll need:

All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cake. Makes it light and airy. We need 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Make sure to measure it correctly by spooning the flour into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. This prevents adding too much flour, which can make your cake dense.
Sugar: For sweetness, of course! We'll use 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar. Sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps with the cake's texture and browning. You can adjust the amount slightly depending on your preference, but this amount provides a good balance of sweetness without being overpowering.
Baking Powder: This is our leavening agent, giving the cake its rise. You'll need 2 teaspoons of baking powder. Baking powder creates air bubbles in the batter, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. Make sure your baking powder is fresh, as it loses its effectiveness over time.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors. Just 1/2 teaspoon is enough. Salt might seem counterintuitive in a sweet recipe, but it actually balances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors in the cake.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor. You'll need 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, softened. Softened butter is crucial for creaming properly with the sugar, which incorporates air into the batter and contributes to the cake's light texture. Make sure the butter is soft but not melted.
Eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness. We'll use 2 large eggs. Eggs bind the ingredients together, add moisture, and contribute to the cake's overall texture and flavor. Using large eggs ensures consistent results.
Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter. You'll need 1 cup of milk. Milk hydrates the flour and helps create a smooth, emulsified batter. You can use whole milk, 2% milk, or even a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or soy milk.
Vanilla Extract: For that classic vanilla flavor. 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract will do the trick. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake and adds a touch of warmth.

See? Nothing too crazy. Now that we have our ingredients, let's move on to the equipment.

Equipment You'll Need

Now, let's talk about the tools you'll need. You don't need fancy equipment for this recipe, just some basic baking essentials:

9-inch Round Cake Pan: This is the perfect size for our cake. A 9-inch round cake pan is a standard size and provides ample surface area for even baking. You can also use an 8-inch pan, but the cake will be slightly thicker.
Mixing Bowls: You'll need a couple of bowls – one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients. Having separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients allows for better mixing and ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Electric Mixer: A handheld or stand mixer makes things easier, but you can also use a whisk and some elbow grease! An electric mixer, whether handheld or stand mixer, makes the creaming process much easier and ensures a smooth, well-combined batter. However, if you don't have one, a whisk and some elbow grease will also work.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success. Using accurate measuring cups and spoons is crucial for consistent results in baking. Too much or too little of an ingredient can significantly impact the texture and flavor of the cake.
Rubber Spatula: For scraping down the sides of the bowl and gently folding ingredients. A rubber spatula is essential for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated and for gently folding ingredients without deflating the batter.
Parchment Paper: To line the cake pan for easy release. Lining the cake pan with parchment paper makes it easy to remove the cake after baking and prevents it from sticking to the pan.
Wire Rack: For cooling the cake. A wire rack allows air to circulate around the cake, which helps it cool evenly and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Got your equipment ready? Awesome! Let's get baking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get to the fun part – baking! Follow these simple step-by-step instructions, and you'll have a delicious plain cake in no time.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pan. For extra insurance against sticking, line the bottom with a parchment paper circle. This crucial step ensures your cake releases easily from the pan, preventing any frustrating breakage. Proper preparation sets the stage for a beautifully baked cake.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisking dry ingredients together ensures even distribution of baking powder, resulting in a consistent rise and texture. This step is important for achieving a light and airy cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Creaming butter and sugar incorporates air into the mixture, which is essential for creating a tender cake. The mixture should become pale and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Eggs add moisture, richness, and structure to the cake. Incorporating them one at a time ensures they emulsify properly into the batter.

Step 5: Add Vanilla Extract

Stir in the vanilla extract. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake and adds a touch of warmth.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so be careful not to overdo it. Alternating dry and wet ingredients helps prevent gluten development, resulting in a tender crumb.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it's best to check for doneness using a skewer.

Step 8: Cool

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cake in the pan allows it to set slightly, making it easier to remove. Cooling completely on a wire rack prevents the cake from becoming soggy.

And that's it! You've baked a simple plain cake from scratch. Great job!

Frosting and Decoration Ideas

Now that you have your beautiful plain cake, it's time to get creative with frosting and decorations! The possibilities are endless, but here are a few ideas to get you started:

Classic Vanilla Buttercream: You can never go wrong with a smooth and creamy vanilla buttercream. It's the perfect complement to a plain cake and is incredibly versatile. You can tint it with food coloring, add extracts for different flavors, or even swirl in some jam or fruit puree.
Chocolate Ganache: For a richer, more decadent option, try a chocolate ganache. It's made with just two ingredients – chocolate and heavy cream – and is surprisingly easy to make. Pour it over your cake for a glossy, impressive finish.
Cream Cheese Frosting: If you prefer a tangy frosting, cream cheese frosting is the way to go. It's perfect with a plain cake and adds a lovely hint of acidity to balance the sweetness.
Fresh Fruit and Whipped Cream: For a lighter, more elegant option, top your cake with fresh fruit and whipped cream. This is a great choice for summer gatherings and showcases the natural flavors of the fruit.
Sprinkles and Edible Flowers: For a fun and festive touch, add sprinkles or edible flowers to your cake. This is a great way to personalize your cake and make it extra special.

Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. Baking is all about having fun and expressing your creativity. Whether you keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar or go all out with a multi-layered masterpiece, your homemade cake is sure to be a hit.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Cake

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time, here are a few extra tips:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This is crucial for proper emulsification and a smooth batter. Room temperature butter creams more easily with sugar, and room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter. Taking the time to bring your ingredients to room temperature will result in a better cake texture.
Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are important. Use measuring cups and spoons designed for baking and level off dry ingredients for accurate results. Inaccurate measurements can lead to a cake that is too dry, too dense, or doesn't rise properly.
Don't Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined, and don't worry about a few lumps. Overmixing can lead to a dense, chewy texture, which is not what you want in a tender cake.
Don't Open the Oven Door Too Often: Opening the oven door can cause the oven temperature to drop, which can affect the cake's rise. Avoid peeking too often, especially during the first half of baking. Frequent opening of the oven door can cause the cake to sink or bake unevenly.
Let the Cake Cool Completely: This prevents it from crumbling when you frost it. Cooling the cake completely on a wire rack allows it to set and prevents it from becoming sticky or soggy. Frosting a warm cake can melt the frosting and cause it to slide off.

Conclusion

There you have it! You've learned how to bake a simple, plain cake from scratch. This recipe is a great starting point for your baking adventures, and you can customize it in so many ways. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, this cake is sure to satisfy. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get baking! You'll be amazed at how easy and rewarding it is to create something delicious from scratch. Happy baking, guys! This simple plain cake recipe is your gateway to a world of baking possibilities. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first cake isn't flawless. Each time you bake, you'll learn something new and refine your skills. So go ahead, bake that cake, and let your creativity shine! You've got this!