Cake Recipes With Pantry Staples

Name: Cake Recipes With Pantry Staples
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs

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I love baking cakes, especially when I can whip one up using ingredients I already have in my pantry. There’s something so satisfying about creating a delicious dessert without the need for special trips to the store. This recipe showcases how you can use simple, everyday ingredients to make a delightful cake that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or simply a sweet treat during the week. Join me as we dive into the world of cake-making with what we have at hand!

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:03:35.923Z

One of my fondest memories involves baking a cake with my grandmother using nothing but basic pantry staples. We would giggle as flour dust filled the air and the smell of vanilla wafted through the kitchen. This method works so well because it focuses on the fundamental flavors while making the most of what you have. Our cakes always turned out light and fluffy!

Since then, I’ve perfected the recipe to ensure that you can achieve the same results with minimal ingredients. The trick is to blend the wet and dry components thoroughly, allowing the cake to rise beautifully. Trust me, this cake will bring back warm memories and create new ones!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Easily adaptable to what you have on hand
Light and fluffy texture that everyone will enjoy
Perfectly sweet with just the right amount of flavor

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this cake relies on pantry staples like all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. All-purpose flour provides the necessary structure, while the sugar contributes sweetness and moisture. It’s important to measure the flour correctly; too much can lead to a dense cake. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for best results.

Butter brings richness and helps create a light, fluffy texture in the cake. Ensure your butter is softened for easier creaming with the sugar, and avoid using margarine, as it can alter the cake's flavor and texture. If you ever run out of butter, vegetable oil can serve as a substitute, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Baking Tips for the Perfect Cake

Preheating the oven is crucial for proper cake rising. This step ensures that the batter begins to set as soon as it hits the heat, giving you a cake with a fine crumb. If your oven runs hot or cold, consider using an oven thermometer to adjust the baking temperature accordingly. Bake your cake until it’s golden and springs back slightly when pressed in the center.

Cooling the cake correctly is also vital for achieving the perfect texture. Letting it sit in the pan for 10 minutes prevents it from sticking, but make sure to transfer it to a wire rack afterward. This helps avoid sogginess on the bottom; too much residual heat can create steam, affecting the cake’s texture.

Customization and Variations

This basic cake recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to infuse different flavors. For a zingy twist, add the zest of a lemon or orange to the batter. Alternatively, mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to add texture and enhance the overall flavor profile. Remember to adjust the sugar slightly based on sweet add-ins to keep the balance.

If you're looking to make this cake a bit denser, you can substitute half a cup of flour with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate variant. Don't forget to slightly reduce the baking powder to maintain the cake's lightness while introducing additional dry ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Basic Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs

Make sure everything is at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your cake:

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade cake with your favorite frosting or simply dusted with powdered sugar!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, or spices into the batter. Ensure to adjust bake time if you add extra ingredients.

Storing and Freezing

Once cooled, this cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you plan on enjoying it later, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, which prevents freezer burn and preserves freshness. They can be frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen cake, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or leave it at room temperature for about an hour. Reheating it in the oven can bring back the fresh-baked taste; preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and warm the slices for about 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This cake serves wonderfully on its own, but elevating it with a simple icing or glaze can make it even more delightful. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a quick lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice will enhance the flavors without overpowering the cake's subtle sweetness.

For a more festive occasion, consider pairing slices with fresh fruits or a dollop of whipped cream. Berries like raspberries or strawberries contrast nicely with the cake's texture, and their tartness complements the sweetness. If you have leftover cake, try making a trifle with layers of cake, fruit, and whipped cream for an impressive dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ What can I use as a dairy-free alternative?

You can replace milk with almond milk or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter substitute.

→ How long can I store the cake?

The cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.