Looking for a simple yet delicious dessert? Try the 1-2-3-4 Cake—an easy recipe that combines basic ingredients for a delightful treat! This cake is not only moist and flavorful, but it also brings back fond memories of family gatherings and celebrations. With its straightforward preparation, you can whip it up in no time, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone short on time.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need four main components, making it budget-friendly.
- Endless Customization: Feel free to add your favorite flavors or toppings to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it is a birthday or a casual get-together, it fits right in.
- Deliciously Moist: The cake’s texture is incredibly tender and moist, pleasing to all palates.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for the 1-2-3-4 Cake are straightforward yet essential to achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each one plays a vital role in making your cake a delightful experience.
- 1 cup of butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
- 2 cups of sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a light texture.
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour: Provides structure and stability to the cake.
- 4 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together while adding richness.
- 1 cup of milk: Ensures the cake is moist and tender.
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder: Gives the cake its rise and airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Variations for 1-2-3-4 Cake
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations you can try.
- Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a refreshing twist.
- Chocolate Chips: Mix in chocolate chips for a decadent chocolate flavor.
- Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts for added crunch and texture.
- Fruit Add-ins: Fold in fresh or dried fruits for extra flavor and moisture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
How to Make 1-2-3-4 Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and rises properly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease and flour your cake pans to prevent sticking. You can also use parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a light cake texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pans and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Frost
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, frost as desired.
Pro Tips for Making 1-2-3-4 Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and airy.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done; it should come out clean.
- Let It Cool: Always let the cake cool completely before frosting for the best results.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add different extracts or spices to enhance the flavor.
How to Serve 1-2-3-4 Cake
Garnishes
Top your cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, fresh fruits, or whipped cream for an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream to elevate the dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving slices on colorful plates or garnishing with edible flowers to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing
The cake freezes beautifully. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen cake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and serve at room temperature, or warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.
How can I make the cake more flavorful?
Incorporating extracts like almond or coconut can add a wonderful depth of flavor.
What frosting goes well with 1-2-3-4 Cake?
A simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting complements this cake beautifully.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it covered until you’re ready to frost and serve.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! The delightful 1-2-3-4 Cake is not just a recipe; it is a joyful way to bring sweetness into your life. I encourage you to try this easy yet delicious cake and make it your own. Happy baking!
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1-2-3-4 Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The 1-2-3-4 Cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that combines basic ingredients for a delightful treat. It’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion, making it a favorite for family gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Butter
- 1 cup of butter
Sugar
- 2 cups of sugar
Flour
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
Eggs
- 4 large eggs
Milk
- 1 cup of milk
Baking Powder
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and rises properly.
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease and flour your cake pans to prevent sticking. You can also use parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a light cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pans and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Frost: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, frost as desired.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and airy.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done; it should come out clean.
- Let It Cool: Always let the cake cool completely before frosting for the best results.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add different extracts or spices to enhance the flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg