Directions to follow

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cool, frost and decorate as desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

Presentation is key! As you frost the cake, consider adding colorful sprinkles or fresh fruit on top. Serve generous slices alongside a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added treat. This cake pairs perfectly with hot coffee, cold milk, or festive punch—it’s all about creating the right atmosphere for your celebration!

How to store & freeze

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to save a cake for later, you can freeze it. Wrap slices or whole layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It’ll maintain its flavor for about three months in the freezer. Always remember to let it thaw in the fridge to preserve moisture.

Helpful cooking tips

• For a moist cake, avoid over-mixing the batter.
• Let your eggs and butter sit at room temperature before starting for better incorporation.
• If your frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
• Leftover frosting can be stored in the fridge for a week.

Creative twists

This birthday cake can be made uniquely yours by swapping out flavors. Try using chocolate instead of vanilla for a rich twist, or add citrus zest for a refreshing spark. You can even experiment with different fillings, such as fruit preserves or cream cheese, for added surprise with every slice.

Common questions

Q: How long does it take to prepare this cake?
A: The preparation time is around 20 minutes, with baking taking an additional 25-30 minutes. Cool time is important too—make sure to allow sufficient cooling before frosting.

Q: Can I use gluten-free flour?
A: Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and you can enjoy this delicious cake without the gluten.

Q: What’s the best way to decorate the cake?
A: Get creative! Use colorful sprinkles, edible glitter, or themed decorations, especially if you’re celebrating a character-themed birthday. You can even write a special message on top with icing!

Q: How should I adjust for dietary restrictions?
A: You can easily modify this recipe to be vegan or gluten-free, as mentioned earlier. Just ensure all your ingredients align with your dietary needs.

With a little effort and creativity, this birthday cake will not only taste incredible but will also leave lasting memories. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start baking!