How to Bake a Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

There’s nothing quite like the smell of a fresh, homemade cake baking in the oven. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, impressing guests, or just craving something sweet, learning how to bake a cake from scratch is a skill anyone can master.

The best part? You don’t need fancy tools or professional training—just a few basic ingredients, a little patience, and this easy-to-follow guide.

Let’s get baking! 🎂

Sliced White and Pink Icing Covered Cake on White Plate With Silver-colored Fork

1. Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, make sure you have everything on hand. Here’s a classic vanilla cake recipe to get you started.

📝 Basic Cake Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour

  • 2 ½ tsp baking powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

  • 1 cup (240ml) milk

Tip: For the best results, use room temperature ingredients—they mix more evenly and help your cake rise properly.

Also, check out our guide on the best flour for baking here.

2. Preheat and Prep Your Equipment

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment paper for easy release).

Pro Tip: Use an oven thermometer to make sure your oven is the correct temperature—many home ovens run hot or cold!

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:

  • Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

  • Set aside.

4. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl:

  • Beat butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

  • Mix for about 3–5 minutes, until it’s light and fluffy.

This step adds air into the batter, which helps create a soft, tender cake.

5. Add Eggs and Vanilla

  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

  • Stir in vanilla extract.

6. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk

To keep the batter smooth and avoid overmixing:

  1. Add ⅓ of the dry mixture, then mix.

  2. Add ½ the milk, then mix.

  3. Repeat, ending with the dry ingredients.

Tip: Mix just until combined. Overmixing = tough cake!

7. Pour Into Pans and Bake

  • Divide the batter evenly between your two prepared pans.

  • Smooth the tops with a spatula.

⏱ Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until:

  • A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  • The cake springs back when lightly touched.

8. Cool and Remove from Pans

  • Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10–15 minutes.

  • Then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Why it matters: Frosting a warm cake = melted mess!

9. Frost and Decorate

Once your cake is cool, it’s time to have fun! 🎨

Frosting Ideas:

  • Classic buttercream

  • Cream cheese frosting

  • Whipped cream

  • Chocolate ganache

Add sprinkles, fruit, or even edible flowers to make it your own.

10. Slice and Enjoy!

That’s it—you just baked a cake from scratch!
Slice it up, serve it fresh, and watch everyone’s faces light up.

Optional Add-Ons:

  • Add a filling between layers like jam or lemon curd.

  • Try different flavors: chocolate, lemon, coconut, or red velvet!

Common Cake Baking Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Overmixing the batter – Leads to a dense or rubbery texture.

  • ❌ Opening the oven door too early – Causes your cake to collapse.

  • ❌ Not measuring ingredients correctly – Always use measuring cups/spoons or a kitchen scale.

  • ❌ Skipping the cooling time – Patience pays off when it comes to frosting.

Conclusion

Now you know how to bake a cake from scratch! 🍰 Whether you’re a first-time baker or just want a reliable recipe, following these simple steps will help you turn everyday ingredients into something special.

Ready to try it? Preheat your oven, grab your apron, and enjoy the sweet success of homemade baking.