Birthday cakes

birthday cakes are special and rewarding process to prepare.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Frosting process

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)

Method

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Add the milk or heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, you can add more milk or cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
4. If desired, add food coloring to achieve your preferred color.
5. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
6. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Decorate the cake as desired with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, fresh fruit, or candles to celebrate the birthday occasion.