Are you craving a deliciously sweet treat that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for Ideal Milk Cake delivers a creamy, dreamy dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to guide you through every step, ensuring a perfectly textured and flavorful milk cake every time. It's one of those easy recipes that yields surprisingly delicious results, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas or even a delightful afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This preparation is key to preventing sticking and ensuring a clean release of your beautiful milk cake.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air and creating a tender crumb. Use an electric mixer for best results.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Blend Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for a perfectly risen cake.
Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – avoid overmixing. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so be gentle!
Bake to Perfection:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your cake during the last few minutes of baking; ovens can vary.
Cool and Enjoy:
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting or serving. This allows the cake to set properly and prevents it from crumbling.
Tips for Success:
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for optimal creaming and mixing.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick or wooden skewer to check if the cake is baked through. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
Variations:
- Chocolate Milk Cake: Add ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Lemon Milk Cake: Add the zest of one lemon and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter.
- Spice Cake: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of cloves to the dry ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This Ideal Milk Cake recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are also easy to make. It's a perfect recipe for homemade cooking and a great way to impress your friends and family with minimal effort. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying treat!