Baking a cake can be a fun and rewarding experience, whether you are an experienced baker or a beginner. There are many different types of cakes that you can make, each with its own unique flavor and texture. In this process paper, we will outline the steps for baking a basic vanilla cake.
Before you begin, it is important to gather all of the necessary ingredients and equipment. You will need:
- All-purpose flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Milk
- Vegetable oil
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
You will also need the following equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or mixer
- Baking pan
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
Once you have gathered all of your ingredients and equipment, you can begin the process of baking your cake.
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk or mixer to combine the dry ingredients.
Step 3: In a separate mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of milk, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, and 2 large eggs. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until the batter is smooth and well combined. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure that all of the ingredients are incorporated.
Step 5: Line your baking pan with parchment paper or coat it with cooking spray. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Step 7: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes in the pan. Then, carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Once the cake has cooled, you can frost it with your favorite frosting or dust it with powdered sugar. Serve and enjoy!
Baking a cake may seem like a daunting task, but with the right ingredients and a little bit of patience, anyone can do it. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and beautifully-presented cake that will impress your friends and family.