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Perfect Small-Batch Vanilla Birthday Cake: Easy 4-Inch Dessert

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A moist, tender, and easy-to-make vanilla cake designed for small spaces and intimate gatherings. This 4-inch cake comes together in under 45 minutes using simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (190g) All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 cup (200g) Granulated Sugar
  • ½ cup (113g) Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 2 Large Eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup (120ml) Whole Milk, room temperature
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Baking Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4-inch round cake pan with butter, line the bottom with parchment paper, and lightly flour the sides.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for about 30 seconds to ensure even distribution. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until pale yellow and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add vanilla extract and mix briefly.
  5. Reduce mixer speed to low. Add dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with milk in two parts, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
  6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges and invert onto a cooling rack. Peel off parchment and let cool completely before frosting.

Notes

Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for best emulsion. Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to avoid a tough texture. If the cake domes, trim the top with a serrated knife after cooling. For best flavor, let the cake rest overnight before frosting. Can be adapted to be gluten-free or dairy-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: small batch cake, vanilla cake, 4 inch cake, easy dessert, birthday cake, gluten-free option, dairy-free option, quick baking

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/perfect-small-batch-vanilla-birthday-cake-easy-4-inch-dessert/