Ingredients and Weight:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional)
- 1 cup fresh fruit like blueberries, strawberries or cherries (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the sugar and butter. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the vanilla or almond extract and lemon zest (if using). Mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing well.
- If using fresh fruit, gently fold them into the batter.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured cake pan.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before frosting or serving.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
Calories: 350-400 (depending on additions and frosting)
Carbohydrates: 50-60g
Fat: 15-20g (depending on whether using oil or butter)
Protein: 5-7g
(Note: Nutrition facts may vary based on ingredients used and preparation method.)
Dish Characteristics:
- A classic American-style cake with a soft and moist texture.
- The addition of fresh fruit gives it a fruity flavor and added texture.
- Can be served plain or with a cream cheese frosting for a richer taste.
User Comments:
- "This cake was so delicious! The texture was perfect and the lemon zest gave it a nice citrusy flavor." - John Doe
- "I added fresh blueberries to this cake and it was really tasty. My family loved it!" - Jane Smith
- "I used cream cheese frosting on top and it was an instant hit at my party." - Michael Johnson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to grease and flour the cake pan well to ensure the cake doesn't stick.
- For best results, use fresh ingredients like eggs and butter that are at room temperature.
- Adjust the baking time according to your oven's calibration. Check the cake after 45 minutes to ensure it doesn't overbake.
