Ingredients:
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 1 ½ cups of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 ½ cups of granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups of milk
Equipment:
- Number-shaped cake pan (available at baking supply stores)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Cooling rack
- Wire cake leveler or serrated knife
- Offset spatula
- Fondant (optional)
- Food coloring (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 2: Bake the cake
Grease your number-shaped cake pan with butter or cooking spray. Pour the batter into the pan, filling it about two-thirds full. Smooth the top with an offset spatula if needed.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Shape and decorate
Once the cake is completely cooled, use a wire cake leveler or a serrated knife to trim the top of the cake, if needed, to create an even surface.
If desired, you can cover the cake with fondant for a smooth finish. Roll out the fondant into a large sheet, and gently drape it over the cake. Smooth it over the surface, trimming any excess fondant.
Alternatively, you can use buttercream frosting to decorate the cake. Whip up your favorite buttercream recipe and tint it with food coloring if desired. Use an offset spatula to spread the frosting over the cake, creating swirls, patterns, or any design you prefer.
Step 4: Finishing touches
For an extra special touch, you can add sprinkles, edible pearls, or small fondant decorations to enhance the appearance of your Cake Number 6.
You and your guests are now ready to enjoy the delicious and visually stunning Cake Number 6! It’s the perfect centerpiece for a memorable celebration.
Remember, the beauty of this cake lies not only in its appearance but also in the time and effort put into creating something special for your loved ones. Enjoy the baking process and have fun!
We hope this step-by-step guide has been helpful in teaching you how to make Cake Number 6. Don’t hesitate to share your creations and let us know how your cake turned out!