Overview of the Baking Process
Baking a simple cake from scratch involves gathering basic ingredients, mixing them into a batter, baking in an oven, and cooling before serving. This process typically takes about 45-60 minutes and yields a moist, fluffy cake suitable for any occasion. Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing an 8-inch round pan by greasing and flouring it to prevent sticking.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
Essential ingredients include 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour for structure, 1 cup sugar for sweetness and tenderness, ½ cup unsalted butter for richness, 2 eggs for binding and moisture, ½ cup milk for hydration, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder for leavening, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor. These components work together through chemical reactions: baking powder releases carbon dioxide to create air pockets, while fats and sugars contribute to a tender crumb.
Step-by-Step Mixing and Baking Example
In a bowl, cream ½ cup softened butter with 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in 2 eggs one at a time, then add 1 teaspoon vanilla. In another bowl, whisk 1 ½ cups flour and 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder. Alternate adding the dry mixture and ½ cup milk to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with dry, mixing until just combined. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This example demonstrates a classic vanilla cake, adaptable for chocolate by substituting ¼ cup cocoa powder for some flour.
Cooling, Storage, and Practical Applications
After baking, cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely to avoid sogginess. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This method is foundational for home bakers, teaching measurement accuracy and oven timing, and applies to layer cakes, cupcakes, or simple desserts, emphasizing the value of fresh ingredients over pre-made mixes for better flavor control and customization.