Homemade Birthday Cake (Theme-Ready)
This customizable homemade birthday cake is the heart of any celebration — from Princess parties to Cars themes. Moist, fluffy, and full of love, it’s easy to bake and even easier to decorate with your child’s imagination leading the way.
Equipment
- 8-inch Round Cake Pans
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Spatula
- Wire Rack
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour for a tender, fluffy base
- 1 tbsp baking powder to ensure rise
- 0.5 tsp salt balances sweetness
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- food coloring optional, for themed colors
- 1 tbsp lemon zest optional, for brightness
- 0.5 tsp almond extract optional, for a bakery-style flavor
Frosting
- 1.5 cups unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Decorations
- sprinkles, edible pearls, or small candies for themed decoration
- fresh berries or fruit slices optional
- mini chocolate chips or cookie crumbs optional filling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract, lemon zest, and almond extract if using.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the batter, starting and ending with the dry. Mix until just combined.
- Divide batter between pans. Add food coloring for themed cakes if desired.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pans, then fully on a wire rack.
- To make frosting: beat butter until creamy, then gradually mix in powdered sugar. Add milk, vanilla, and salt. Beat until fluffy and spreadable.
- Trim cake layers if needed. Frost between layers, then cover top and sides. Smooth or swirl the surface.
- Decorate with sprinkles, candies, or theme toppers. Chill for 20–30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Make ahead by baking layers the day before and storing them wrapped. Decorate right before serving for the freshest look. Easily adapt the color and theme with toppers, frosting tints, or fruit.