- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring your oven is at the correct temperature is crucial for even baking.
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make for easy removal once baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes. The mixture should be pale in color and have a creamy texture. This step is vital as it incorporates air into the batter, helping the cake rise.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are thoroughly incorporated and helps maintain the light texture of the batter.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. If you are using citrus zest, add it at this stage as well.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. This means you will add a portion of the dry ingredients, then some milk, and repeat until all is added. This method helps to keep the batter smooth and prevents curdling.
Step 6: Mix Until Smooth
- Mix the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake. The batter should be smooth and lump-free.
Step 7: Pour and Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from becoming soggy from steam.
- Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for the Perfect Italian Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting. This helps them combine more easily and results in a smoother batter.
- Measuring Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Do not pack the flour, as this can lead to a dense cake.
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavorings. Almond extract, lemon extract, or even a touch of liqueur can add a unique twist to the cake.
Serving Suggestions
This Simple Italian Cake is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
- Plain: Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea.
- With Fresh Fruit: Top with fresh berries or a fruit compote.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a touch of luxury.
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
- Layered: Split the cake horizontally and fill with jam, curd, or a creamy filling for a special occasion.
Storing and Freezing
- Storing: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, you may want to store it in the refrigerator to prevent it from spoiling.
- Freezing: The cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
The Joy of Baking
Baking a cake from scratch is a rewarding experience that brings joy not only to the baker but to everyone who gets to enjoy the finished product. This Simple Italian Cake is a perfect example of how a few basic ingredients, combined with care and attention, can create something truly special.
Conclusion
We hope this detailed guide has inspired you to try your hand at baking this Simple Italian Cake with 12 tablespoons of key ingredients. The process is straightforward, and the result is a delicious cake that embodies the charm and simplicity of Italian baking. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a topping, or as part of a layered dessert, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Key Takeaway
The beauty of this Simple Italian Cake lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can create a cake that is both elegant and comforting, perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!