There’s something truly special about baking a homemade birthday cake to celebrate a loved one’s special day. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this delightful birthday cake recipe is sure to bring smiles and create unforgettable memories. Get ready to embark on a baking adventure and create a delicious masterpiece that will be cherished by all.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 250g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 250g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 250g self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Filling and Decoration:
- 250ml double cream
- 2 tablespoons icing sugar
- Assorted fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Edible flowers (optional)
- Additional icing sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease and line two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift the self-raising flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt into the mixture.
- Gently fold in the dry ingredients until well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
2. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the cake batter equally between the two prepared cake tins.
- Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in their tins for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- Whip the double cream with the icing sugar until it forms soft peaks. Be careful not to over-whip.
4. Assemble and Decorate:
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top of the first cake layer.
- Add a layer of fresh berries on top of the cream.
- Place the second cake layer on top and press gently to secure.
- Cover the top of the cake with more whipped cream and decorate with additional fresh berries and edible flowers if desired.
- Finish by dusting the cake with icing sugar for a beautiful presentation.
5. Serve and Celebrate:
- Slice and serve your homemade birthday cake with love and joy. Watch as the smiles and happiness light up the room!
This homemade birthday cake is a labour of love, and the result is a scrumptious and visually stunning treat that’s perfect for celebrating birthdays and special occasions. Remember to personalize your cake with the birthday person’s favourite flavours and decorations for an extra special touch. Enjoy the wonderful journey of baking and creating sweet memories!