A split-scene composition showcasing a baking preparation setup with flour, vintage measuring cups, glass bowl of vanilla batter, and fresh ingredients on the left, and a finished two-layer celebration cake with buttercream frosting, rainbow sprinkles, and rose petals on a pedestal on the right, illuminated by soft natural light.

Simple Birthday Cake: The Ultimate Easy Homemade Celebration Treat

Simple Birthday Cake: The Ultimate Easy Homemade Celebration Treat

Key Info:

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes

Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Total Time: 45-55 minutes

Servings: 8-12

Difficulty: Beginner

Dietary: Vegetarian (Vegan/Gluten-Free Adaptable)

Equipment Needed:
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Measuring cups/spoons
  • 2 x 8-inch cake pans
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Toothpick
Ingredients:
  • 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ¾ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Optional: ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles
Pro Tips Before Starting:
  • Room temperature ingredients mix more smoothly
  • Don’t overmix the batter
  • Use fresh baking powder for best rise
Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease cake pans thoroughly.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

  • Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl
  • Ensure no lumps remain

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

  • In separate bowl, beat eggs
  • Add milk, oil, and vanilla
  • Whisk until completely combined

4. Create Batter

  • Gradually add wet ingredients to dry
  • Mix until just combined
  • Do not overmix!

5. Optional Sprinkle Magic

  • Gently fold in rainbow sprinkles
  • Distribute evenly without overmixing

6. Bake

  • Pour batter into prepared pans
  • Bake 30-35 minutes
  • Test with toothpick: should come out clean

7. Cool and Finish

  • Let cake rest in pan 10 minutes
  • Transfer to wire rack
  • Cool completely before frosting

Close-up of a marble kitchen counter with scattered flour, vintage measuring cups, a glass mixing bowl of smooth cake batter, a wooden spoon, fresh eggs, and vanilla extract, all bathed in warm, natural light.

Critical Tips:
  • Room temperature ingredients blend better
  • Avoid opening oven during first 25 minutes
  • Let cake cool totally before decorating
Variations:
  • Chocolate version: Replace ¼ cup flour with cocoa powder
  • Vegan: Use plant milk, flax eggs
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour blend
Storage:
  • Room temperature: 2 days
  • Refrigerator: 5 days
  • Freeze: Up to 3 months (unfrosted)
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
  • Overmixing batter
  • Using old baking powder
  • Opening oven too frequently
  • Frosting warm cake
Recommended Frostings:
  • Classic vanilla buttercream
  • Cream cheese frosting
  • Chocolate ganache
  • Whipped cream

Professional overhead shot of a two-layer birthday cake with swirled vanilla buttercream frosting and rainbow sprinkles on a white ceramic stand, surrounded by rose petals and vintage cake forks on a rustic wooden table.

Nutrition Note: Occasional treat, high in sugar and carbs. Enjoy responsibly!

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