Birthday Cake

There’s something incredibly special about a Birthday Cake. Each layer tells a story of laughter, joy, and celebration. I remember the excitement building up to my birthday as a child, eagerly anticipating that towering masterpiece of sweetness. My mom would whip up the most delicious cakes, each year bringing a new flavor and design. But one thing remained constant: the happiness that came with each slice of cake shared with family and friends. Making a Birthday Cake is not just about baking; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. This recipe has been passed down through generations, each bite a reminder of those cherished moments.

What You’ll Need for Birthday Cake

When it comes to creating the perfect Birthday Cake, the ingredients are just as important as the process. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that moist, flavorful cake we all crave. The combination of all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and the sweetness from granulated sugar creates a base that is simply irresistible. With the addition of buttermilk and eggs, you’ll have a batter that promises to rise beautifully in the oven.

• 6 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the backbone of your cake, providing structure and stability.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise and gives it a light texture.
• 3 teaspoons baking powder: Works in conjunction with baking soda to create a fluffy cake.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 2 cups unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 cup shortening (softened): Creates a tender cake crumb.
• 3 cups white granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its texture.
• 4 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together for a perfect consistency.
• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, sweet flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Adds moisture and richness.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Enhances flavor and moisture.
• 1 cup water: Helps adjust the batter consistency.
• 1/3 cup canola oil: Contributes to a moist cake.
• 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles: Adds a festive touch and flavor.
• 3 cups unsalted butter (for frosting): Ensures a rich, creamy frosting.
• 3 cups shortening (for frosting): Stabilizes the frosting for better spreading.
• 12 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds flavor to the frosting.
• 6 tablespoons milk (for frosting): Adjusts the frosting’s consistency.
• 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles (for frosting): For decorating the cake.
• 1 cup rainbow sprinkles (for decoration): For adding colorful charm on top.

Instructions for Birthday Cake

Baking a cake can feel like a delightful adventure, especially when it’s a Birthday Cake. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll create a delicious cake that everyone will love. Let’s get started!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is crucial for ensuring your cake bakes evenly. While the oven is warming up, prepare your cake pans. Lightly spray 3 9-inch cake pans with baking spray and set them aside. For best results, consider adding parchment paper at the bottom and spray it again with baking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. Stir this mixture gently to evenly distribute the ingredients before setting it aside.
3. In another large bowl, use a standing mixer to cream together the butter, shortening, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl several times. Next, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract until just combined.
4. Gradually add one-third of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Then, pour in the water, buttermilk, and canola oil. Beat the batter until smooth and fully combined.
5. Continue adding another third of the flour mixture, mixing well, followed by the milk. Ensure the batter is smooth before you add the last of the flour mixture. This will give your cake a perfectly balanced texture.
6. Once everything is mixed, gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles. This will add a fun surprise to each slice of cake!
7. Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth out the tops if necessary. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans for about 10 to 15 minutes. After that, gently remove them from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
9. While your cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a clean mixing bowl, combine the remaining butter and shortening. Beat until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Then, incorporate the remaining vanilla extract and milk. If the frosting is not stiff enough, you can add more powdered sugar, half a cup at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. Lastly, fold in the remaining rainbow sprinkles.
10. Once the cakes are completely cool, use a cake leveler or a sharp serrated knife to trim off any domed tops, ensuring an even surface for stacking. Place a cake board on your cake stand, add a few tablespoons of frosting to the center, and set one cake layer on top.
11. Spread about 1 cup of frosting evenly over the first layer using a spatula. Carefully place the second layer on top and repeat the frosting process. Finally, place the last cake layer on top, using the remaining frosting to cover the entire cake. You can be generous with the frosting! Pipe dollops of frosting on top for decoration.
12. To add a charming touch, garnish the sides of the cake with more rainbow sprinkles and scatter some on top. For the best texture and flavor, place the cake in the fridge for at least 4 to 6 hours before slicing; this allows the frosting to set beautifully.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Baking the perfect Birthday Cake comes with its own set of tips to ensure success. Here are some suggestions to make your cake truly stand out.

• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake layers (wrapped tightly) for up to three months. Just thaw and frost when ready to enjoy!
• Pairing: Serve the cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Customization: Change up the flavor by adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter for a unique twist.
• Occasions: This cake is perfect not just for birthdays but also for anniversaries, graduations, or any celebration.
• Frosting Techniques: Try different piping techniques for decorating. Use various tips for different designs and textures.

What to Pair With Birthday Cake

When serving your Birthday Cake, consider these delightful pairings to enhance the celebration:

• Ice Cream: Vanilla or chocolate ice cream complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee works wonders, balancing the sweetness with its rich flavor.
• Fresh Fruits: Sliced strawberries or berries add a refreshing contrast to the cake’s richness.
• Milk: A classic pairing that never goes out of style, especially for kids!
• Celebration Drinks: Serve with sparkling water or lemonade for a festive touch.
• Seasonal Themes: Decorate the cake according to the season or occasion, adding festive touches to make it even more special.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Birthday Cake recipe is a true celebration of joy and togetherness. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for marking any special occasion. I encourage you to gather your loved ones and try this recipe for your next celebration. You’ll create not just a cake, but lasting memories!

Birthday Cake

The ultimate celebration dessert, this Birthday Cake is rich, moist, and adorned with colorful sprinkles. Perfect for any occasion, it's easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of joy!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 cups unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup shortening (softened)
• 3 cups white granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
• 1.5 cups whole milk
• 0.5 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup water
• 0.33 cup canola oil
• 0.5 cup rainbow sprinkles
• 3 cups unsalted butter (for frosting)
• 3 cups shortening (for frosting)
• 12 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 6 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
• 0.5 cup rainbow sprinkles (for frosting)
• 1 cup rainbow sprinkles (for decoration)

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is crucial for ensuring your cake bakes evenly. While the oven is warming up, prepare your cake pans. Lightly spray 3 9-inch cake pans with baking spray and set them aside. For best results, consider adding parchment paper at the bottom and spray it again with baking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. Stir this mixture gently to evenly distribute the ingredients before setting it aside.
3. In another large bowl, use a standing mixer to cream together the butter, shortening, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl several times. Next, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract until just combined.
4. Gradually add one-third of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Then, pour in the water, buttermilk, and canola oil. Beat the batter until smooth and fully combined.
5. Continue adding another third of the flour mixture, mixing well, followed by the milk. Ensure the batter is smooth before you add the last of the flour mixture. This will give your cake a perfectly balanced texture.
6. Once everything is mixed, gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles. This will add a fun surprise to each slice of cake!
7. Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth out the tops if necessary. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans for about 10 to 15 minutes. After that, gently remove them from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
9. While your cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a clean mixing bowl, combine the remaining butter and shortening. Beat until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Then, incorporate the remaining vanilla extract and milk. If the frosting is not stiff enough, you can add more powdered sugar, half a cup at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. Lastly, fold in the remaining rainbow sprinkles.
10. Once the cakes are completely cool, use a cake leveler or a sharp serrated knife to trim off any domed tops, ensuring an even surface for stacking. Place a cake board on your cake stand, add a few tablespoons of frosting to the center, and set one cake layer on top.
11. Spread about 1 cup of frosting evenly over the first layer using a spatula. Carefully place the second layer on top and repeat the frosting process. Finally, place the last cake layer on top, using the remaining frosting to cover the entire cake. You can be generous with the frosting! Pipe dollops of frosting on top for decoration.
12. To add a charming touch, garnish the sides of the cake with more rainbow sprinkles and scatter some on top. For the best texture and flavor, place the cake in the fridge for at least 4 to 6 hours before slicing; this allows the frosting to set beautifully.

Notes

When storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for a week. If you want to freeze the cake layers, wrap them tightly and store for up to three months.

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Meet Quinn Taylor

Great food doesn't have to be complicated, it just has to be smart. I focus on streamlining our recipes so you get maximum flavor with minimum stress. I cooked, timed, and tasted this dish multiple times to ensure it fits perfectly into your busy life while still delivering that 'wow' factor.