Classic Cake Recipes You Should Know

Baking a cake from scratch can be one of the most rewarding kitchen experiences, offering the joy of creating something sweet from simple ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, mastering a few classic cake recipes will help you create delicious desserts for any occasion. Here are five classic cake recipes that everyone should know, each offering a unique flavor and texture.

Classic Vanilla Cake

A fluffy, light, and moist vanilla cake is a staple in the world of desserts. It’s versatile enough to be dressed up with frosting, fruit, or served plain with a cup of tea.

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until smooth.
6. 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.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Frost with your favorite icing, such as buttercream or cream cheese frosting.

Classic Chocolate Cake

For chocolate lovers, a rich, moist chocolate cake is an absolute must. This cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or as a treat any day.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar.
3. Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well combined.
4. Gradually add the boiling water, mixing until the batter is smooth (it will be thin).
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing them to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, frost with your favorite chocolate frosting.

Carrot Cake

Carrot cake is a warm, spiced dessert that’s a crowd-pleaser, especially when topped with rich cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for springtime or any festive occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the sugar and oil together until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Fold in the grated carrots and nuts (if using).
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting is fluffy. Frost the cooled cakes with the cream cheese frosting.

Red Velvet Cake

Red velvet cake is a Southern classic with a distinct flavor and striking red color. It’s traditionally paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting.

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red food coloring
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Conclusion

These five classic cake recipes—vanilla, chocolate, carrot, red velvet, and lemon—are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a celebration, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat, these cakes offer something for everyone. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to create these delicious cakes from scratch and impress your guests with your baking skills. Enjoy!