Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step helps to aerate the batter and creates a soft, tender cake.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the batter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly springy to the touch.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar, if desired, for an elegant finishing touch.
Enjoy: Slice and serve this delicate cake with a cup of tea, coffee, or fresh fruit for a delightful dessert experience.
Why You’ll Love Soft Melender Cake
Delicate Texture: The Soft Melender Cake lives up to its name with its tender, airy crumb that practically melts in your mouth.
Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already, making this cake an easy go-to recipe.
Versatile Flavor: While the vanilla provides a classic flavor, you can easily enhance the cake with other flavors like lemon zest, almond extract, or a hint of spice.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting guests or just enjoying a treat with family, this cake is versatile enough to suit any setting.
Perfect Pairings
Serve your Soft Melender Cake with:
Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a bright, fruity contrast to the cake’s delicate sweetness.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luxurious touch to each bite.
Tea or Coffee: This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee, making it an ideal companion for an afternoon break.
Tips for Success
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best results. This ensures even mixing and a lighter, fluffier texture.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can cause the cake to become dense. Mix until just combined for the softest texture.
Use Cake Flour for Extra Softness: If you want an even more tender cake, you can substitute cake flour for all-purpose flour. Use the same amount by weight, but sift it to lighten the batter.
Storage Tips
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It stays soft and delicious for several days without drying out.
Freezing: This cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Conclusion
The Soft Melender Cake is a simple, elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and gentle sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser, whether served plain or dressed up with fruit and cream. This cake is a true testament to how basic ingredients, when combined with care, can create something truly special. Next time you’re craving a light and delightful dessert, give this Soft Melender Cake a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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