Birthday Cake Ideas
Birthday cakes are more than dessert—they’re celebrations wrapped in frosting. This classic, simple recipe creates a fluffy, moist cake base you can customize with flavors, frostings, and designs. From rainbow layers to fresh fruit toppings, these birthday cake ideas will inspire memorable celebrations for kids and adults alike.
Equipment
- Two 8-inch Round Cake Pans
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Whisk
- Parchment Paper
- Spatula
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 3–5 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix gently until just combined.
- Divide batter between pans and smooth tops. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Frost with buttercream, whipped cream, or frosting of choice. Decorate simply with sprinkles, fruit, or themed toppers.
Notes
For variations, try rainbow layers, chocolate overload, fresh fruit toppings, ice cream cake, or a minimalist naked cake. Each adapts this simple base to fit the celebration style.