Name: Easy Birthday Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 3 cups cake flour; 1¾ cups white sugar; 1¼ cups water; ½ cup shortening; 2½ tsp baking powder; 1½ tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp salt; For Egg Substitute:; 3 tbsp water; 2 tsp baking powder; 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil

Celebrating a special day with a homemade cake is always a delightful experience. This easy birthday cake recipe is straightforward and ensures a moist and flavorful cake that everyone will love. Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is a perfect choice for creating a memorable birthday treat.

Photos of Easy Birthday Cake Recipe

When gathering ingredients for this cake, you might find cake flour and shortening to be less common in your pantry. Cake flour has a lighter texture compared to all-purpose flour, which results in a finer, softer crumb. Shortening, on the other hand, helps create a tender and moist cake. Both can be found in the baking aisle of your supermarket.

Ingredients For Easy Birthday Cake Recipe

cake flour: A finely milled flour that creates a light and tender texture for the cake.

white sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with the cake's structure.

water: Adds moisture to the cake batter.

shortening: Used to create a moist and tender cake texture.

baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.

vanilla extract: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the cake.

salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

water: Used in the egg substitute mixture.

vegetable oil: Another component of the egg substitute to add moisture and texture.

One reader, Judah Barth says:

This easy birthday cake recipe is fantastic! The cake turned out moist and delicious, and the instructions were super simple to follow. Perfect for any celebration!

Judah Barth

Techniques Required for Making an Easy Birthday Cake

How to grease and flour cake pans: Grease the cake pans with shortening or butter, then sprinkle flour over the greased surface. Tap the pans to evenly distribute the flour and shake out any excess.

How to whisk: Use a whisk to combine ingredients until they are well mixed and smooth.

How to beat with an electric mixer: Use an electric mixer to mix ingredients at a medium speed until they are well combined and the batter is smooth.

How to test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

How to cool on a wire rack: Place the cake pans on a wire rack to allow air to circulate and cool the cakes evenly.

How to invert a cake: Run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it, then place a cooling rack or plate on top of the cake pan and flip it over to release the cake.

How To Make Easy Birthday Cake

Make birthdays more special with this versatile birthday cake, a dairy-free soft and moist cake that’s made in just under one hour!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3cupscake flour
1¾cupswhite sugar
1¼cupswater
½cupshortening
2½tspbaking powder
1½tspvanilla extract
1tspsalt

For Egg Substitute:

3tbspwater
2tspbaking powder
3tbspvegetable oil

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour two 8-inch cake pans.
Combine all egg substitute ingredients in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined.
Combine the cake flour, sugar, water, shortening, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt in a large bowl. Add the egg substitute and beat with an electric mixer for about 4 minutes until well mixed.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Run a table knife around the edges to loosen. Invert carefully onto a serving plate or cooling rack. Let cool completely before topping with choice of frosting.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 345.70kcal
Fat: 12.33g
Saturated Fat: 2.41g
Trans Fat: 1.15g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.06g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.13g
Carbohydrates: 56.37g
Fiber: 0.59g
Sugar: 29.28g
Protein: 2.81g
Sodium: 246.72mg
Calcium: 133.18mg
Potassium: 37.43mg
Iron: 2.72mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Baking a Flawless Birthday Cake

To achieve a light and fluffy texture for your cake, make sure to cream the shortening and sugar together thoroughly before adding the other ingredients. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps the cake rise properly and gives it a tender crumb.

Time-Saving Tips for Baking a Birthday Cake

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the baking process.

Use parchment paper: Line cake pans with parchment paper to avoid greasing and flouring.

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure shortening and water are at room temperature for easier mixing.

Electric mixer: Use an electric mixer to combine batter quickly and efficiently.

Cooling rack: Use a cooling rack to speed up the cooling process before frosting.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Birthday Cake Recipe

cake flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: Use 2¾ cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ cup of cornstarch to mimic the light texture of cake flour.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar provides a similar sweetness with a slight caramel flavor and is less processed.
water - Substitute with milk: Milk adds extra richness and moisture to the cake.
shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter adds a richer flavor and a better texture to the cake.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use 1 part baking soda and 2 parts cream of tartar to create a similar leavening effect.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor profile.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can add a slightly different mineral flavor and is less processed.
water - Substitute with unsweetened applesauce: Applesauce adds moisture and a slight sweetness, which can help bind the ingredients.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and vinegar: Use 1 part baking soda and 1 part vinegar to create a similar leavening effect.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content with a slight coconut flavor.

Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Birthday Cake

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that all your cake flour, white sugar, and vanilla extract are of the highest quality to achieve the best flavor and texture.
Create a smooth batter: Beat the mixture with an electric mixer for about 4 minutes to ensure a smooth and lump-free batter, which will result in a more refined cake texture.
Bake evenly: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, and rotate the cake pans halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
Cool properly: Allow the cakes to cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before inverting them. This helps to prevent the cakes from sticking to the pans and ensures they maintain their shape.
Level the cakes: Once the cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to level the tops. This will make stacking and frosting easier and more professional-looking.
Choose a sophisticated frosting: Opt for a high-quality buttercream or ganache to frost the cake. These options provide a rich and luxurious finish.
Apply a crumb coat: Spread a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Chill the cake for 15-30 minutes before applying the final layer of frosting.
Decorate with finesse: Use a piping bag to create elegant designs with the frosting. Consider adding fresh berries, edible flowers, or gold leaf for a touch of luxury.
Plate with precision: Serve the cake on a pristine white plate to highlight its colors and textures. Add a small garnish, such as a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar, to elevate the presentation.
Serve with complementary elements: Pair the cake with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry coulis to enhance the overall dining experience.

Essential Tools for Baking the Perfect Birthday Cake

Oven: Used to bake the cake at the specified temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cake pans: Two 8-inch pans to hold the batter while baking.
Electric mixer: Essential for beating the batter and ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to mix the cake ingredients together.
Small bowl: Used to prepare the egg substitute mixture.
Whisk: For combining the egg substitute ingredients until well mixed.
Measuring cups: To measure out the cake flour, sugar, water, and shortening accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure the baking powder, vanilla extract, salt, and the ingredients for the egg substitute.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
Toothpick: To check if the cake is done by inserting it into the center and seeing if it comes out clean.
Wire rack: For cooling the cakes after they are baked.
Table knife: To run around the edges of the cake pans to loosen the cakes before inverting.
Serving plate: To place the cakes on after they are removed from the pans.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Birthday Cake

Allow the birthday cake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
If you want to store the cake in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
To freeze the birthday cake, follow these steps:
1. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove any air pockets.
2. Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
3. Label the container or bag with the date and type of cake.
4. Freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to serve the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap and let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
If you want to freeze individual slices of the birthday cake, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. This way, you can easily grab a slice whenever you want without having to thaw the entire cake.

How To Reheat Leftover Birthday Cake

The best way to reheat leftover birthday cake is to wrap individual slices in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is warm and the frosting is soft and gooey.
Another option is to microwave individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds at a time, checking the temperature and texture after each interval to avoid overheating and drying out the cake.
For a quicker and more convenient method, you can also reheat leftover cake slices in a toaster oven. Place the slice on a toaster oven tray and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the frosting is melted.
If you have a large portion of leftover cake, you can reheat it in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the frosting is soft.
To maintain the moisture and texture of the cake, you can place a damp paper towel over the cake slices before reheating them in the microwave. This will help prevent the cake from drying out and becoming tough.
If you want to add a little extra flavor and warmth to your leftover cake, try warming up some caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or fruit compote and drizzling it over the reheated cake slices for a delicious and indulgent treat.

Interesting Fact About Birthday Cakes

A unique aspect of this birthday cake recipe is the use of an egg substitute made from water, baking powder, and vegetable oil, making it suitable for those with egg allergies or dietary restrictions.

Is Making a Birthday Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

This easy birthday cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With basic pantry staples like cake flour, white sugar, and shortening, the overall cost remains low. The egg substitute using vegetable oil and baking powder is also economical. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $8-$10. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Birthday Cake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This easy birthday cake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sugar content (1¾ cups)
Use of shortening, which is high in saturated and trans fats
Refined cake flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients
Absence of whole grains, fruits, or vegetables

However, the recipe does have some positive aspects, such as the absence of eggs, which reduces cholesterol content, and the relatively small serving size of 8-inch cake pans.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the sugar content by 25-50% and replace with natural sweeteners like applesauce or mashed bananas
Use whole wheat pastry flour or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour instead of cake flour to increase fiber content
Replace the shortening with healthier oil options like coconut oil or olive oil
Incorporate shredded zucchini, carrots, or pureed fruits (e.g., applesauce) into the batter for added moisture, fiber, and nutrients
Top the cake with fresh fruit instead of frosting to reduce added sugar and increase nutritional value
Experiment with sugar-free or reduced-sugar frosting recipes using ingredients like Greek yogurt, avocado, or nut butters for healthier alternatives

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Easy Birthday Cake Recipe

This easy birthday cake recipe is straightforward and accessible, making it ideal for novice bakers. The use of an egg substitute is a thoughtful touch for those with dietary restrictions. However, the recipe could benefit from more detailed instructions on mixing times and techniques to ensure a light, fluffy texture. Additionally, incorporating a step to sift the dry ingredients could improve the cake's consistency. Overall, it's a solid base recipe that can be customized with various frostings and fillings to suit any celebration.

Enhance Your Easy Birthday Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Enhance your birthday celebration with a vibrant fruit salad. A medley of berries, melon, and citrus slices will add a refreshing twist to your dessert table. The natural sweetness and juicy textures will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the cake.

Mini Quiches: Add a savory touch to your party with delightful mini quiches. These bite-sized wonders, filled with spinach, cheese, and bacon, offer a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the birthday cake. They are easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Caprese Skewers: For a burst of Mediterranean flavor, serve caprese skewers. These elegant appetizers feature cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze. They are a light and tasty addition to your dessert spread.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with savory stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, these bite-sized treats are a perfect complement to the sweetness of your birthday cake. They are sure to be a hit at any celebration!

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Indulge in the luxurious combination of chocolate-dipped strawberries. The juicy strawberries coated in rich dark chocolate provide a decadent treat that pairs beautifully with the cake. This elegant dessert is both visually stunning and delicious.

Alternative Recipes for Celebrating Birthdays

Chocolate Fudge Cake: Indulge in a rich and decadent dessert with this Chocolate Fudge Cake. Perfect for any celebration, this cake is moist, dense, and topped with a luscious chocolate ganache. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Vanilla Cupcakes: These Vanilla Cupcakes are light, fluffy, and bursting with classic vanilla flavor. They are perfect for birthday parties or any special occasion. Top them with your favorite frosting and sprinkles for a festive touch.

Red Velvet Cake: Experience the luxurious taste of Red Velvet Cake, a dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious. With its signature red color and creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to impress your guests.

Lemon Drizzle Cake: Brighten your day with a slice of Lemon Drizzle Cake. This dessert is moist and zesty, with a tangy lemon glaze that adds a burst of flavor. It's perfect for afternoon tea or a light dessert after dinner.

Carrot Cake: Enjoy a slice of Carrot Cake, a dessert that's packed with flavor and texture. Made with grated carrots, warm spices, and a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is a delightful treat for any occasion.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Birthday Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a satisfying crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts to perfection. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Picture toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate this simple dish to gourmet status. It's a refreshing and light start to any meal, perfect for showcasing the flavors of fresh, seasonal produce.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the aromatic flavors of herbs. Perfect for a summer evening, this dish features tender chicken breasts marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Grilled to perfection, the chicken develops a beautiful char and a succulent interior. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal. This dish is not only flavorful but also healthy and easy to prepare, making it a go-to for any occasion.

Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers: Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers are a vibrant and nutritious option for a main course. These colorful bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and tomatoes, all seasoned with cumin and chili powder for a hint of spice. Topped with melted cheese and fresh cilantro, these stuffed peppers are baked until tender and bursting with flavor. They make a satisfying and wholesome meal that is perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Pair them with a side of guacamole or sour cream for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Why trust this Easy Birthday Cake Recipe:

This easy birthday cake recipe is perfect for any celebration. With simple ingredients like cake flour, white sugar, and a unique egg substitute, it ensures a moist and fluffy texture. The step-by-step instructions make it foolproof, even for beginners. Plus, the use of shortening adds a rich flavor that everyone will love. Trust this recipe for a delightful and stress-free baking experience.

Want to discuss this easy birthday cake recipe further? Head over to the Baking and Desserts section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use regular flour instead of cake flour?

You can, but cake flour gives a lighter, fluffier texture. If you use regular flour, the cake might be a bit denser. You can make a substitute by replacing 2 tablespoons of each cup of all-purpose flour with cornstarch.

What can I use instead of shortening?

You can use butter or margarine as a substitute for shortening. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the texture and flavor of the cake.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If there's batter or crumbs sticking to it, give it a few more minutes.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. Frost it on the day you plan to serve it.

What kind of frosting goes well with this cake?

This cake is pretty versatile, so you can go with classic buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a simple whipped cream. It really depends on your taste and the occasion.