Hey Lykkers! Are you ready to bake a birthday cake that will be the talk of the party?

With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity, a perfectly delicious homemade birthday cake is totally within reach.

Follow these detailed steps, and you’ll be able to create a cake that’s both beautiful and tasty. Let’s get baking!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Perfect Birthday Cake

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)

4 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup whole milk

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Buttercream or frosting of choice (for decorating)

Sprinkles, edible glitter, or other decorations (optional)

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

- Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter or non-stick spray, then lightly dusting them with flour. This helps the cakes release easily once baked. Alternatively, you can line the pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step usually takes about 3-4 minutes and helps to incorporate air into the butter, making the cake fluffy.

- Add the 4 eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly combined.

- Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for that warm, sweet flavor. Mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour.

- Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the 1/2 cup of milk. Start by adding about a third of the dry ingredients, then a third of the milk, and repeat until everything is combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can cause the cake to become dense.

Step 4: Prepare the Cake Pans

- Pour the cake batter evenly into the two prepared cake pans, dividing the mixture as equally as possible.

- Tap the pans gently on the countertop to release any trapped air bubbles. This ensures your cake layers bake evenly and prevents holes in the center.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

- Place the cake pans in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This helps them set and makes it easier to remove them from the pans without breaking.

- After 10 minutes, carefully flip the cakes onto a wire rack and let them cool completely. It’s important not to frost the cakes while they’re still warm, as the frosting may melt.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

- Now, it’s time for the fun part! Once the cakes have cooled, spread a layer of frosting on the top of the first cake, then place the second cake on top. Frost the entire cake and finish off with sprinkles, edible glitter, or any decorations that suit the birthday vibe.

Baking a birthday cake doesn’t have to be a stressful experience – with these easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious, homemade cake that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. Whether it's for a family celebration or a big party with friends, this cake will surely make any birthday feel special. Happy baking and enjoy every bite!