4 Inch Vanilla Cake
Introduction
If you’re looking for a small yet delicious cake to celebrate a special occasion or just to enjoy with your family, this 4-inch vanilla cake is perfect for you. It’s simple to make and perfect for any dessert lover!
Why Make This Recipe
This 4-inch vanilla cake is great for intimate gatherings or small celebrations. Its size is just right, ensuring everyone gets a slice without the pressure of extra leftovers. The vanilla flavor is loved by many, making it a hit for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite frosting or decorations.
How to Make 4 Inch Vanilla Cake
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 1 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream (for frosting)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 4-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, adjusting consistency with milk or cream as needed.
- Assemble the cake by placing one layer on a serving plate, frosting it, then adding the second layer and frosting the top and sides.
- Decorate as desired.
- Slice and serve your delicious 4-inch vanilla cake!
How to Serve 4 Inch Vanilla Cake
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can serve it with a scoop of ice cream or some fresh berries for extra flavor. It’s also great with a cup of coffee or tea.
How to Store 4 Inch Vanilla Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it, where it will last for about a week. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if it’s been chilled.
Tips to Make 4 Inch Vanilla Cake
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- You can bake the cake a day ahead; it will taste great after resting!
Variation
You can add chocolate chips or lemon zest to the batter for a twist on the classic vanilla flavor. You can also use different flavored extracts, like almond or coconut, to change things up!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different size cake pan?
Yes, but baking times may change. You’d need to adjust the baking time according to the size of the pans you use.
2. Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw them before frosting.
3. How can I make the cake chocolate-flavored?
You can replace 1/4 cup of the flour with cocoa powder to make a chocolate version of this cake.
Enjoy baking this lovely little cake, and happy celebrating!
