10 Tips to Successfully Baking Cake from Scratch with Recipe

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Did you know that baking a cake from scratch is simple and easy? Here are 10 baking tips for successfully baking a perfect cake from scratch. Also included is a recipe and step-by-step instructions to guide you through.

A slice of vanilla cake on a plate. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

Table of Content

I have been baking since I was a little girl alongside my mom. Spending hours in the kitchen with mom, while she created all her orders was fun. She always baked from scratch. So, for her, there were no shortcuts. Even, if she needed cake flour she made it herself. She taught me the basics and that has been my foundation all these years. Over the last several years, I've shared with you 100s of cake recipes, from coffee cakes, layer cake, bundt, etc., in all three blogs. And guess what? Each and every cake is baked from scratch.

Why bake a cake from scratch?

The truth is, baking a cake from scratch is easy. It really is. I think the real problem is that people perceive it as hard. Otherwise, why would there be so many box mixes out there? Right? I don't use box mixes, and yet I can't think of how it would be any easier than baking a cake from scratch.

First of all, let's look at the ingredients in a basic cake - butter, sugar, flour, leavening, and liquid. I bet these are ingredients you already have on hand. So, in truth, the box mix is an extra ingredient that you need to buy. So how it is easier? Let me know in the comments.

And yet, baking is a science, each ingredient plays an important role and has the ability to alter the end product. Hence, it requires a specific process and procedure that we must follow to get the best results.

Baking tips - cooling the cakes on a cooling rack. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

Butter cakes Vs Oil cakes

When it comes to making a vanilla cake, the type of fat you use can have a big impact on the final outcome. Butter and oil are the two most common fats used in cake recipes, but they produce cakes with slightly different characteristics.

Butter cakes have a richer flavor and denser crumb due to the butter's higher percentage of saturated fat. The creaming method used to make a butter cake also helps to create a tender texture. On the other hand, oil cakes tend to have a lighter texture and a more delicate crumb due to the oil's liquid consistency. Oil cakes also tend to stay moist for longer periods of time.
Keep in mind that substituting oil for butter in a recipe can change the flavor and texture of the cake. For example, if a recipe calls for melted butter, using oil instead will result in a cake with a slightly greasier texture. If a recipe calls for creamed butter, using oil will change the texture of the cake, resulting in a crumb that is not as tender.
When deciding between a butter or oil vanilla cake, consider your desired flavor and texture. If you want a rich, dense cake with a buttery flavor, go with butter. If you prefer a lighter, more delicate cake that stays moist for longer, opt for oil.

A collage of layer cakes. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

10 baking tips to bake from scratch

Now, I know that there are many articles out there that give you a long list of baking tips and no explanation as to why. That changes today.

In this post, I share with you my 10 baking tips. And I will tell you exactly why you should or should not do something. So, no more following blind rules.

In fact, once you understand these tips they will come to you naturally. Understanding your ingredients and the baking process is a great way to really become a good baker.
So, let's start with the baking tips.

1. Have your ingredients ready

This is often the reason for cake disasters.

Always prepare all your ingredients on the table before you start mixing. That way you won't forget anything. And, you won't over or undermix ingredients while trying to look for something.
Follow the steps mentioned in the recipe. There is a reason why a recipe says - to preheat the oven, prepare your baking pans, etc. This gives you just enough time for preheating, measuring, sifting, creaming, etc.

Ingredients shot collage for vanilla cake. — Vanilla Cake perfect for carving

2 - Measuring ingredients

Always measure the ingredients properly. And the best way to do that is to use weight measurements, not volume. If the recipe calls for one cup, then use one cup, not a few tablespoons more or less. It makes a big difference.

For example- A few extra tablespoons of flour can make your cake dense, and crack on top. While a few tablespoons less can cause the cake to sink.

Also, if we both scooped a cup of flour, guess what, they wouldn't weigh the same. So, the best way to ensure you have the right amount is by weight rather than volume. Read measuring ingredients by weight and volume in more detail.

Baking tips - how to measure the ingredients correctly. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

3. Temperature of ingredients

Most people never realize that this makes such a huge impact on baking. Not just with cakes but also with pastry, bread, and other baked goods. And yet, it's very critical to cakes. There is a reason why a recipe calls for room-temperature ingredients.

Butter - If the butter is not at room temperature it will not cream well with the sugar and will stay lumpy. And, if it won't cream, it won't' become light and fluffy.
Pro tip - To thaw butter quickly, don't put it in the microwave. Instead, invert a warm glass bowl over it. It takes about 5 to 7 minutes to thaw.
Eggs - Start at room temperature. This will help them combine well with the rest of the ingredients and not give you a curdled batter.
Pro tip - If you need to separate eggs, separate them when they are still cold. Eggs separate better when they are cold but whip better when they are warm ?.
Sugar - Use finer or small-grain sugar that will cream well. Since coarse granulated sugar takes longer to cream and ends up staying grainy or warming the butter too much.
Pro tip - If you cannot find fine-grain sugar just pulse the coarse sugar in a food processor for a few seconds.

Ingredients for devils food cake. — Chocolate Devils Food Cake in Bundt Pan

4. Don't over or under mix

I know this is very confusing. What does it mean to overmix or undermix a cake? How do I know when it’s enough? And, no it has nothing to do with your hand mixer, stand mixer, or if you use a whisk or spatula. But, it has to do with the ingredients and how they blend together or how they change when combined with other ingredients.

Most recipes will tell you how long to mix. And yet, if you’re still not comfortable, use a kitchen timer. (I do it all the time, mostly because I’m multitasking).

Most standard cakes have a simple formula:

Cream the butter and sugar - You will know when this it's done because it will appear light, fluffy, and creamy. (Usually about 2 to 3 minutes.) When overmixed, the butter will get softer and soupy rather than creamy.
Add eggs, one at a time, and incorporate each egg well. What it means is, to add each egg at about 20-sec intervals, and combine the first until no yellow is visible. Then, add the next one, and so on. It is important to mix the eggs well as this can give your finished cake that light and airy texture we all love. When you overmix, the batter will curdle or separate.
Pro tip - The batter is still good to use. Just add a tablespoon of flour and continue to mix (you probably just lost a little volume - but no biggie).
Adding the dry and wet ingredients - Always alternate the dry and wet ingredients, starting with the dry and ending with the dry (dry/wet - dry/wet-dry). It is important to combine them until they are incorporated completely. But, this is where we do not want to overmix. When overmixed, we activate the gluten in the flour, which makes the cake dense (sometimes chewy).

Baking tip - showing how to prepare the pans for baking. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

5. Prepare your cake pans

There is nothing worse than to have your cake stuck to the pan. Is there? All that hard work! But, what is the best way to prep your pans?

You can buy a special spray for baking, which is a combination of flour and oil. But, the simplest is of course to brush the pan with butter and coat it with flour. Shake the pan so the flour coats the surface properly then tap the pan over the sink to shake out the excess flour. It is important to tap out the excess flour otherwise it can affect the texture of the crumb of the cake.
For me, the rule of thumb is to grease the pan and line it with a piece of parchment paper on the bottom.
In some cases, if you do not prepare the sides of your pan, it can affect the rise of your cake. So, when necessary, I use the same approach: grease and line with a piece of parchment paper on the sides as well. And at other times, I will use an oil spray for the sides and its good to go.
In addition, always fill your pan ⅔ full leaving enough room for the cake to rise.

Baking tips - showing how to use baking strips and heating core for baking. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

6. Cake strips and heating cores

Cake strips - As a cake decorator I hated domes! Why? Well, it had to be cut away, which means less height on my cake, especially my layer cakes.
You can buy these ready-made cake strips, which saves you a lot of hassle but you can make your own cake strips using paper hand towels and aluminum foil.
Heating core - You don't need these for all cakes but they are a huge advantage for larger or deeper cakes by helping them bake evenly.
You see, the cake bakes from outside in. So, with large cakes, the center is still baking while the outside is already baked and starts drying out. But with a heating core, you are also baking from the center. Cool trick! I use large flower nails as a heating core.

Baking Tips - do not crowd the oven when baking. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

6. Oven rules

Oven temperature
- When baking, the oven's temperature is very important and can affect the end result of your baked goods. I know most professionals recommend buying an oven thermometer. It is a great investment. Having said that, if you do not own one, then keep track of your oven.
- For example, if your recipe says to cook for 20 minutes, but your cake is done in 15 or 30 minutes. If this happens, often you can estimate how much hotter or cooler your oven is. Also, you can call the technician to calibrate the oven. Or next time, make the adjustments accordingly and keep track again.
Never open the oven door
- Every oven has a glass door for a reason, so you can look through it. So, NEVER open the oven door. Why? It instantly reduces the temperature of the oven by 25%, which can be very critical to some cakes. In fact, it can cause a cake to sink by deflating all the air pockets you incorporated in the mixing process.
- As a rule of thumb, never open the oven at least for the first 80% of the baking time. Most recipes will tell you how long to bake your cake.
- In addition, a great indicator is the cake aroma from the oven when the cake is almost close to being done.
Always preheat your oven
- A good practice is to have your ingredients ready, switch on the oven and start mixing. This gives you approximately 15 minutes of preheating time.
- If you forget, it is often better to delay the baking than to put the cake in a cold oven. Why?
- A cold oven will melt the butter in the batter making a greasy cake.
- Also, it will deflate all the air pockets you worked so hard to incorporate into the batter.
Never overcrowd the oven
- First, it reduces the temperature of the oven and restricts air circulation. For example, the temperature of a room with 4 people will be higher if the same room now has 10 to 12 people. Right?
- Overcrowding the oven can cause similar problems from uneven baking as well as sinking. Hence, it's best to place the cake on the middle rack and away from the side of the oven. Also, make sure the pans do not touch each other when baking.

Baking tips - checking the cake for doneness with a toothpick. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

8 - The "cake done" test

The toothpick test - My mom swore by the toothpick test. Poke a toothpick or cocktail stick into the cake and take it out. If the toothpick comes out clean without any cake batter, and you feel no moisture, the cake is done. If not, give it a few more minutes and then test again.
Bounce back - Another indication when a cake is done is that the cake bounces back. Meaning, that if you press on the top of the cake it will spring back up. While this is a good indication it should be used as a secondary option not the primary method of testing.
Cake leaves the sides of the cake - Another indication that the cake is done is that it leaves the sides of the pan.

Baking tips - Vanilla and chocolate cake layers cooling on a cooling rack. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

9. Cooling the cakes

Never leave your cakes in the pan for too long after baking. Instead, cool them on the wire rack so air can circulate all around them. Why?
Leaving your warm cake in the pan for a long can cause some cakes to sink. Especially the light and airy ones. In particular, cakes like angel food and genoise need to be taken out of the pan as soon as they are out of the oven so that they do not sink.
Also, leaving the cake in the pan can cause the steam to cool down in the pan, which can make the cake wet, damp, and sometimes greasy.
Instead, invert the cake from its pan onto a cooling rack and let it cool completely. If you have prepared your pans properly, this will be an easy job.

10. Storing the cakes

After the cake is done, no matter how tired you are always store your cakes correctly.

Leaving the cakes open on the counter can cause the cake to dry out with the air. So, wrap them in plastic.
If you plan to keep the cake in the fridge, wrap it well in double plastic. The fridge sucks up moisture and cakes can dry out easily. (keep a slice of bread open in the fridge and see how dry it becomes in a few hours - that's what happens to cakes too).
If you must leave your cake for longer, wrap it well and keep it in the freezer. The freezer does a wonderful job of keeping the cakes moist.
And, always cool cakes completely before you frost them otherwise the frosting will melt on warm cakes.

Cake layers with frosting on a cake board. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

Ingredients and substitutes

A great way to become a better baker is to take a moment to understand your ingredients. That is why in every recipe I have a section dedicated to ingredients and substitutes.

When you take a moment to think about what this ingredient is, or how this ingredient works, you are already on the path to becoming a good baker. I don't plan to give you the whole history or encyclopedia, and yet here is some background information that will help you better understand your cake ingredients.

First of all, a cake has mainly 5 basic ingredients that are used in almost all basic cakes. As you explore more recipes, you will learn how these can be used in many ways to get different outcomes. My mom would refer to this as playing with your ingredients. She'd smile and say: "have fun and let's see what happens."

Flour - Have you ever wondered how this single ingredient can be used in different recipes, and yet produce very different outcomes?
- From wonderful, flaky, tender pie crust to dense chewy bread? Read - Baking basics - how flour affects our baking. And
- Have you heard that cake flour can give delicate texture cakes with a soft crumb? Have you wondered which cakes are better with cake flour while others are better with all-purpose flour? Read - Baking basics - homemade cake flour and substitutes.
Fat - Most bakers don't realize that fat can make a huge difference in their baking. Whether it's the type of fat or the temperature at which it is used. Most cakes use butter or oil. And while butter is better for flavor in some cakes oil is better for texture. Read more - Baking basics - how butter affects our baking.
Eggs - Eggs add structure in the form of protein and help balance the texture when combined with flour and fat. Also, egg yolks contain emulsifiers that give a thick and cohesive batter helping to keep all the ingredients together. Read more - Baking basic -how eggs affect our baking.
Sugar - While sugar is used to add sweetness to cakes it also adds structure, texture, color, and flavor. So, often, you will get a recipe that calls for white sugar, brown sugar, dark brown sugar, etc. They all provide a different depth of flavor to your baked goods apart from their sweetness.
Did you know that sugar is a wet ingredient not dry? Yes, it is often referred to as a wet ingredient in baking. Because when heated it's in a liquid state. Read - Baking Basic - How sugar affects our baking.
Leavening - These are an essential part of baking. And too much or too little can create different results. Leavening agents release carbon dioxide gases into the cake when mixed into the batter. This helps the batter rise. Also, it gives a light and airy texture when combined with eggs, sugar, and flour. It is very important to follow the exact measurement of the leavening agent in your recipe. Too much of it can cause very undesirable results in your baked goods, including a dry after-taste when too much is added. Read - Baking Basic - Baking Powder vs Baking Soda
Liquids - The added moisture to the cake batter not just adds flavor but also helps hydrate all the ingredients. The liquid in cakes can be from simple water, milk, juices, or thick sour creams. And the liquid helps create steam that expands the air cells and creates that volume we like in light fluffy cakes. In addition, liquid also contributes to tender and moist cakes.

Ingredients for baking a cake from scratch. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

How to measure ingredients for baking?

When it comes to baking, precise measurements are crucial to ensure consistent and successful results. Here's a guide on how to measure ingredients accurately:

Use measuring cups: For dry ingredients like flour, sugar, and cocoa powder, use a set of dry measuring cups. These cups have flat rims, and you should fill them to the brim and level off the excess with a straight edge, like the back of a knife or a spatula.
Spoon and level: When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup without packing it down and then level off the excess with a straight edge. Avoid scooping directly from the flour bag or container, as it can compress the flour and lead to inaccurate measurements.
Use a kitchen scale: A kitchen scale is an excellent tool for precise measurements, especially for ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, or liquids. Place your bowl or container on the scale, set it to zero, and then add the ingredient until you reach the desired weight.
Measuring spoons: For smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, vanilla extract, or spices, use a set of measuring spoons. Fill the spoon to the brim and level it off with a straight edge.
Liquid measuring cups: For liquids such as water, milk, oil, or honey, use a clear liquid measuring cup with markings on the side. Place the cup on a flat surface and pour the liquid to the appropriate level by bending down to eye level for accuracy.
Brown sugar: Pack brown sugar firmly into the measuring cup or spoon and level off the excess. It should hold its shape when you remove it from the cup.
Butter: If your recipe calls for solid butter, you can use the markings on the packaging or a kitchen scale to measure the desired amount accurately. If you need to measure tablespoons or teaspoons of softened butter, refer to a conversion chart or use measuring spoons.

Remember to follow the recipe instructions and measure ingredients as precisely as possible. Baking is a science, and accurate measurements play a crucial role in achieving the desired texture, consistency, and taste in your baked goods.

Flour on a weight scale. — Tips Thursday - How to Correctly Measure your Baking Ingredients

Using vanilla extract Vs vanilla bean paste in cakes

When baking a cake, often the ingredient that can make or break it is the flavor used. No matter what cake we make we always use vanilla as the base! While both vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste add a distinct vanilla flavor, they differ in texture and strength.

Vanilla extract is the most common vanilla flavoring used in baking. It is made from vanilla beans that have been macerated in alcohol and has a strong, pure vanilla flavor. Vanilla bean paste, on the other hand, is made by blending vanilla bean seeds with sugar syrup and has a thicker consistency with visible vanilla bean specks. It has a more complex, almost caramel-like flavor than vanilla extract.
When deciding which to use in your cake, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Vanilla extract is more widely available and easier to find in grocery stores, making it the practical choice for most bakers. However, if you have access to vanilla bean paste or want a more pronounced vanilla flavor with visible specks in your cake, it's worth the extra effort to seek out and use it.
Regardless of which you choose, remember that a little goes a long way. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste. And don't forget to use high-quality vanilla for the best flavor.

How to bake a cake from scratch

Preheat the oven to 325°F / 165°C / Gas Mark 3.
Grease and line 3 x 7-inch round cake pans or 2 x 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
Pro tip - You can also make 4 x 6-inch round cakes for a tall cake.

Progress pictures collage preparing the cake batter from scratch. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

Dry ingredients - Vanilla cake - Sift flour with baking powder and salt. And set aside. Chocolate cake - Sift flour with baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Pro tip - We want to add some volume to the batter and the sugar is completely dissolved. So, make sure to cream well.
Next, add eggs, one at a time. Followed by the vanilla extract.
Pro tip - Ensure the eggs are at room temperature or the batter will curdle. If that happens, just add a tablespoon or two of flour and combine well.
Then, add the flour mixture and milk alternating in three batches.
Pro tip - Since whipping cream is thick the batter looks a bit stiffer than regular vanilla cake but the cream will melt in the oven so don't add any more milk.

Progress pictures collage making the cake batter from scratch. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

Scrape the sides of the bowl, ensuring you have a smooth batter. Then, divide the batter between the prepared baking pans.
Pro tip - Use an offset spatula to spread the batter evenly in the pan so it bakes evenly.
Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Pro tip - I like to use cake strips to ensure my layer cakes bake flat.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes then invert on a cooling rack and cool completely. Always cool cakes completely before you decorate or store them away.
Pro tip - Wrap in plastic wrap and place in the freezer for an hour. This will make fewer crumbs when torting and leveling the cake.

Progress pictures baking a cake from scratch. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

How to start baking a cake from scratch? What should I bake?

The best way to bring your new journey of baking from scratch is to start simple. Easy recipes that help you master the basics. For example -
1. Start with my one-bowl vanilla or chocolate recipe. This uses less effort but the cakes will help encourage you.
2. Then start with simple sponge cakes - the recipe is in the recipe card below. This will share the standard baking method used for most cakes.
3. Then, take it. to the next level with cakes like fluffy vanilla cake that need separating and whipping the eggs separately.
Did you know that I have more than 50 layer cake recipes?

Do I always need to bake with cake flour?

Not necessarily. The term cake flour does not necessarily mean you need to use cake flour for all cakes by default. In face, some cakes such as chocolate cakes and cakes with work better with all-purpose flour. However, if a recipe ask for cake flour, and if you don't have cake flour, you can make your own by substituting it with all-purpose flour and cornstarch. For every cup of all-purpose flour, replace two tablespoons of it with cornstarch. Sift the mixture together several times to ensure it's evenly combined. Read how flour affects baking.

How to bake perfect cakes?

First of all, organize yourself. Try not to multitask. (I know, easier said than done).
Also, get all the ingredients ready before you start, so you don’t forget anything.
And remember, baking is food science. While in regular cooking you can always add more salt or have the luxury of forgetting something. In baking, each ingredient has a key role and can affect the end result of your hard work.
Finally, baking can be fun and exciting; it all depends on how you approach it.
So take care of the basics and the rest is fun.

What makes a cake light and fluffy?

There are a few things you can do to make your cakes light and fluffy.
1. Cream the ingredients such as butter and sugar properly.
2. Add eggs one at a time.
3. Don't overmix once you add the dry ingredients.
4. Whipping the eggs separately to add more air into your batter.
5. Often we, separate the eggs and whip the egg white meringue to make a fluffy cake. A slice of strawberry cake.

Weight vs volume measure in baking?

In baking, there are two common methods for measuring ingredients: weight and volume. Let's take a closer look at each method:
Weight measurement: This method involves using a kitchen scale to measure ingredients in grams or ounces. Weight measurements provide the most accurate and consistent results because they account for differences in density and packing of ingredients. Professional bakers often prefer this method because it ensures precise ratios and reliable outcomes.
When using weight measurements, you'll need to refer to a recipe that provides ingredient quantities in weight units. Place your bowl or container on the scale, set it to zero, and then add the ingredient until you reach the desired weight.
Volume measurement: This method involves using measuring cups and spoons to measure ingredients in cups, tablespoons, teaspoons, etc. Volume measurements are more common in home baking and may be the most familiar method for many people. However, it's important to note that volume measurements can be less precise, as the density and packing of ingredients can vary.
When using volume measurements, ensure you follow proper techniques to get as accurate measurements as possible. Use the appropriate measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients, spoon and level dry ingredients, and pour liquids to the correct level in liquid measuring cups.
While volume measurements can work well for some ingredients (e.g., water or milk), others like flour can vary significantly depending on how they are scooped or packed into the measuring cup. This can lead to inconsistencies in your baked goods.
Ideally, if a recipe provides both weight and volume measurements, it's best to use weight measurements for more accurate results. However, if you're using volume measurements, it's important to follow the specific instructions and techniques provided in the recipe to minimize discrepancies.
Ultimately, the choice between weight and volume measurements in baking comes down to personal preference, familiarity, and the level of precision you want to achieve in your baked goods. Baking ingredients in measuring dishes.

Is it better to use weight or volume measures for baking?

Personally, I love to measure my ingredients by weight not volume.
If you pick an old recipe book, you will often find that they ask for large eggs. Have you seen the size of eggs today as compared to say when you were a kid?
I remember eggs use to be much bigger and when you say large egg it really was a large egg. Now, it's almost impossible to call a large egg large.
So, now if we use the same recipe from the old book, let's say the recipe said 3 eggs, which would be about 140 to 150 grams of eggs in those days. Today, if we use 3 eggs that would be about 90 to 100 grams of eggs. What do you think happens to the recipe which such a difference in the amount of eggs?
You will notice on some website the conversion charts show 1 cup flour = 100 grams, and on another 1 cup flour is 120 grams. The extra 20 grams = more than 1 tablespoon.
For example, if a recipe calls for 4 cups of flour, I would use 400 grams of flour while someone else could be using 480 grams of flour. So, the same recipe could give two different people two different outcomes.
When measuring flour in a cup – some could add 7 tbsp. while another would add only 5 tbsp. Because it depends on how the individual fills the cup. This again results in different outcomes.
So would be the case with sugar, cocoa, etc.
However, 100 grams is 100 grams!! There is no confusion there. If a recipe says 100 grams flour – I will use 100 grams flour. The possibility of me being more accurate is greater.

How to measure dry ingredients correctly for baking?

While I won't stop you from using the volume measure lets at least discuss how to do them correctly.
- Spoon dry ingredients such as flour and sugar in a dry measuring cup. Make sure to have a bowl or parchment paper at the bottom.
- Fill the cup with a spoon. Never put the cup into the flour and scoop the flour out. The measurement will be different (test it).
- Fill the cup overflowing so you have more than a cup.
- Then take a spatula or the back of your knife and level the cup using a sweeping motion.
- You should now have a correctly measured cup of flour or sugar.
- Brown sugar - Some ingredients like brown sugar and vegetable shortening require that you press the sugar into the measuring cup.
- For this, it's best to firmly press the brown sugar into the cup with the back of a spoon. Then level the top for correct measurement. Did you know that how you measure your ingredients is crucial to your baking

How to measure liquid ingredients correctly for baking?

Dry ingredients are measured differently than liquid ingredients. Which is why it is very important to have both measuring cups on hand. To measure liquid ingredients like milk and oil correctly.
- Start by keeping the measuring cup on a flat surface.
- Then pour the liquid into the cup just below the right measure.
- Now bend down (kneel if necessary) so you are eye level with the measuring cup. If you stand and pour you will probably put more.
- Likewise, if you hold the cup higher and pour you will probably pour less. But, if you keep the glass at eye level you will be able to see the measure correctly.
Tips - spray a measuring cup with oil before pouring in sticky ingredients like honey or molasses. It will pour out easily. A measuring cup.

Two slices of chocolate and vanilla cake on a plate. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

Troubleshooting

If your vanilla cake isn't turning out quite the way you had hoped, don't panic. Even experienced bakers encounter issues from time to time. Here are a few troubleshooting tips to help you get to the bottom of any problems you might be having with your vanilla cake.

If your cake is coming out dry, it might be overcooked. Check the cooking time and temperature, and consider reducing the time in the oven by a few minutes. Another possibility is that you're using too much flour; be sure to measure your ingredients precisely, as too much flour can make your cake dry and dense.
My cake is too soft and breaks - Adding too much flour or adding less butter and eggs can cause the cake to be very dry and crumbly. This is why always follow the recipe correctly.
On the other hand, if your cake is coming out overly moist, the issue may be with the ingredients. Be sure that your eggs are at room temperature before mixing them into your batter. Cold eggs can cause your cake to be overly damp. You may also want to consider reducing the amount of liquid in your recipe slightly.
Dense chewy cakes -
- Overmixing can make cakes dense and chewy.
- Often, the reason could be that the ingredients were not at room temperature. This lead to ingredients not being fully combined.
- Follow the recipe correctly so you know the steps.
- Have all your ingredients ready so you don't go looking for things.
- Do the right amount of creaming, beating, and folding. Do not undermix or overmix.
If your cake is coming out slightly uneven or lopsided, make sure that your oven racks are level, and that you're placing your cake pans in the center of the oven. If all else fails, you can try adding a few baking strips around your pans to help distribute the heat more evenly.
Finally, if your cake is sticking to the pan, you may not have greased and floured it sufficiently. Be sure to give your pans a generous coating of cooking spray or butter, and then dust them lightly with flour before adding your batter. You can also try using parchment paper to line the bottom of your pans for added insurance.

Frosting a vanilla and chocolate cake. — 10 Tips to successfully baking a cake from scratch - How to bake a cake from scratch.

Creative Ways to Decorate and Serve Your Cake

With your vanilla cake baked to perfection, it's time to get creative with the decorations and presentation.

One easy and classic option is to simply dust the top with powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. If you're looking for something a bit more unique, try layering sliced strawberries, raspberries, or peaches over the top of the cake for a fruity twist.
For a more formal occasion, consider using a piping bag and frosting to decorate the cake with intricate designs or personalized messages. You can also add edible flowers or other decorations to give it a touch of elegance. Another fun option is to cut the cake into fun shapes and designs, such as squares or triangles, and serve on a platter with a variety of toppings and sauces.
Whatever your choice for decorating and serving your vanilla cake, be sure to have fun and let your creativity shine.

Ideas for frosting vanilla cake

There are many different ways to frost a vanilla cake. Here are some ideas:

Classic Vanilla Buttercream: This is a traditional frosting made with butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or cream. It is creamy and sweet, and pairs perfectly with vanilla cake.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Cream cheese frosting is tangy and slightly sweet, and it goes great with vanilla cake. To make it, combine cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Chocolate Frosting: If you love chocolate, consider frosting your vanilla cake with a chocolate frosting. You can make a simple chocolate buttercream by adding cocoa powder to your classic buttercream frosting.
Lemon Buttercream: If you want a bright and citrusy frosting, try a lemon buttercream. Simply add lemon juice and zest to your classic buttercream frosting.
Whipped Cream Frosting: For a lighter and less sweet option, try a whipped cream frosting. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it forms stiff peaks, and then spread it over your cake.
Caramel Frosting: For a rich and decadent frosting, consider caramel. You can make a caramel frosting by combining sugar, butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract over heat until it forms a thick caramel sauce, and then letting it cool before spreading it over your cake.
Berry Frosting: If you want a fruity twist on your vanilla cake, try a berry frosting. Puree fresh berries and mix them into your classic buttercream frosting for a delicious and colorful option.

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Ideas for frosting a chocolate cake

There are many different frosting options for a chocolate cake, here are some ideas:

Chocolate Ganache: Heat up heavy cream and pour over chopped chocolate, mix until smooth and let the ganache cool until it thickens. Then, spread it over the cake.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder until smooth. This gives a tangy and creamy cheesy frosting.
Chocolate Buttercream: Mix together softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a little bit of milk until smooth and fluffy. This frosting an be used on vanilla or chocolate cakes.
Whipped Cream Frosting: Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and cocoa powder until stiff peaks form. This gives a lighter and airy frosting. You can even stabilize it to keep for longer
Mocha Frosting: Mix cocoa powder and instant coffee granules with softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a little bit of milk until smooth.
Peanut Butter Frosting: Mix together softened butter, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This gives a nutty and creamy frosting.
Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth. This gives a rich and chocolatey cream cheese frosting.
Chocolate Whipped Cream Frosting: Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and melted chocolate until stiff peaks form. This gives a rich and decadent frosting.

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Choose the frosting that suits your preference and taste buds, and enjoy the deliciousness of your chocolate cake!

In conclusion, baking the best cake is a simple yet rewarding endeavor when you have the right ingredients, tools, and guidance. Whether you prefer butter or oil cakes, vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste, or have questions about troubleshooting or decorating, this ultimate guide has got you covered.

Remember to take your time when mixing and baking, and don't be afraid to show off your creativity when serving and decorating. As Julia Child once said, "A party without cake is just a meeting." So go ahead and create something sweet and memorable that will bring joy to your loved ones. Happy baking!

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