Birthday Cake Ideas Recipe 2025
This simple birthday cake recipe is a soft, classic base with endless customization options — perfect for every celebration. Whether you go chocolate, citrus, sprinkle-filled, or berry-bright, this cake brings joy to every table. No bakery needed — just love and a little frosting.
Equipment
- 2 8-inch Round Cake Pans
- Mixing Bowls
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 eggs room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar together with a mixer until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined — do not overmix.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto racks to cool completely before frosting and decorating.
Notes
Customize this base with cocoa powder, citrus zest, sprinkles, or fruit. Great for sheet cakes, layer cakes, or even cupcakes. Use buttercream, whipped cream, or cream cheese frosting based on the occasion.