This recipe yields a moist and airy milk cake, perfect for a sweet treat with tea or as a light dessert. It’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- For the Milk Soak:
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk (optional, for extra richness)
- Optional Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon or nutmeg powder
- Powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×9 inch square baking pan or an 8 inch round baking pan. You could also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Milk Soak:
- While the cake cools slightly, in a bowl or large measuring cup, combine the milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk (if using). Whisk until well combined.
- Poke Holes in the Cake:
- Using a fork or toothpick, poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake.
- Soak the Cake:
- Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. It may seem like a lot of liquid, but the cake will absorb it.
- Chill and Serve:
- Let the cake cool completely and then chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the milk mixture to fully absorb.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Enjoy!
- Cut into squares and serve your delicious, fluffy milk cake.