Minimalist Birthday Cake
A simple vanilla cake with a tender crumb and balanced sweetness. This minimalist birthday cake is perfect for any celebration—easy to make, versatile to decorate, and filled with the kind of joy that comes from simplicity.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Hand or Stand Mixer
- Two 9-inch Round Cake Pans
- Whisk
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 3/4 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk room temperature
Optional Decorations
- whipped cream for frosting
- fresh berries optional topping
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Line bottoms with parchment.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- On low speed, add flour mixture in three parts, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Decorate simply with whipped cream, powdered sugar, or fresh berries before serving.
Notes
Variations: Swap ½ cup flour for cocoa powder for a chocolate version, add citrus zest for brightness, or bake in a 9x13 pan for simplicity. Avoid overmixing and always cool before frosting.