How to Make Cake
A cake can be made either from scratch or a mix. A standard recipe or cake mix usually makes either two 8" or 9" inch layers, a 9"x13" sheet or 24 cupcakes. Cake mixes include all the required dry ingredients but eggs, water, and sometimes oil must be added. The dry ingredients necessary to make a cake are commonly found in most kitchens and include flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
To learn how to make cake, just follow these simple steps.
Step 1: Preheat Oven
A cake usually bakes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. For glass pans, the temperature should be reduced to 325. Preheating is essential to cake baking success. The oven must be heated to the appropriate temperature before the cake is placed into the oven to bake.
Step 2: Assemble Utensils
A pan or pans, measuring cup, rubber scraper and bowl are essential. A mixer and beaters or a wooden spoon are needed to mix the batter. If making the cake from scratch, measuring spoons will also be necessary.
Step 3: Prepare Pan(s)
Apply a thin coating of shortening or oil to the inside of the pan(s) and dust with flour, ensuring that all surfaces are covered. If making cupcakes, use paper cupcake liners instead of greasing and flouring the pan.
Step 4: Assemble Ingredients
The basic dry ingredients needed for a plain white cake are flour, sugar, salt and baking powder. Wet ingredients include water, eggs and oil. If using a cake mix, all the dry ingredients are pre-measured and ready for mixing. If making the cake from scratch, the recipe may also call for vanilla.
Step 5: Mix
Place all ingredients into the bowl. If using a mixer and beaters, blend on low speed until the dry ingredients are moistened and then beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. If mixing by hand, use the wooden spoon and beat thoroughly, about 300 strokes.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into prepared pan(s). Place the pan(s) in the oven and bake for the time specified by the recipe or box instructions. A sheet cake or round layers usually require about 30-35 minutes while cupcakes will be done in about 20 minutes.
Step 7: Test for Doneness
To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake or a cupcake. If the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is done.
Step 8: Let Cool
Remove the cake from the oven and set the pan(s) on a wire rack or potholder to cool. Once cooled, remove the cake by inverting the pan onto a plate or tray.
Step 9: Frost
If desired, frosting or a glaze may be added. As an alternative simply sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Once it is known how to make cake, a multitude of variations are possible. Consider experimenting with the addition of chopped nuts, shredded coconut or raisins. Enjoy!
