Easy Homemade Birthday Cake – Classic and Moist

Discover how to make an easy homemade birthday cake that’s moist, fluffy, and perfect for any celebration. Try this simple recipe today.

Easy Homemade Birthday Cake

Making an easy homemade birthday cake is one of the best ways to celebrate any special occasion. This recipe delivers a moist, fluffy cake that’s incredibly simple to prepare, using common pantry ingredients. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just craving a delicious treat, this birthday cake hits the mark with its classic flavor and tender crumb. Check out our easy weeknight dinners for more simple meal ideas.

Why You’ll Love It

This easy homemade birthday cake is perfect because it combines simplicity with great taste. It’s moist without being dense, has a tender crumb, and works well with any frosting or decoration you prefer. Plus, it requires only a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, which means you can have a homemade celebration cake ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free flour for GF version)
• 2 and 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (dairy-free butter alternative works)
• 1 and 3/4 cups granulated sugar (coconut sugar for refined sugar-free option)
• 4 large eggs (flax eggs for vegan option)
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk (almond or oat milk for dairy-free)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between the two prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Expert Tips

Use room temperature ingredients to ensure the batter mixes evenly. Avoid overmixing after adding flour to keep the cake tender. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. The cake layers can be baked a day ahead and stored in airtight containers.

Storage

Store the birthday cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting or serving.

Variations

• Vegan: Use flax eggs and dairy-free milk and butter substitutes.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Dairy-Free: Replace butter with plant-based butter and use almond, soy, or oat milk.
• Sugar-Free: Use a refined sugar substitute like erythritol or coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.

FAQ

Can I make this birthday cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers up to 2 days ahead and store them wrapped at room temperature or refrigerated. Frost just before serving.

How do I make the birthday cake moist?

Using the right ratio of butter and milk plus not overmixing helps keep the cake moist and tender.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just increase the ingredient quantities and bake in larger pans or multiple pans as needed.

What frosting pairs best with this birthday cake?

Classic vanilla buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or chocolate ganache all work beautifully with this cake.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, this easy homemade birthday cake is perfect for kids’ parties as it uses familiar, simple flavors and ingredients.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment below to share your experience, rate the recipe, or ask questions. Don’t forget to save and share this easy birthday cake recipe for your next celebration!