Whimsical White Cake: A Classic with a Touch of Magic

1. Preheat & Prep: Fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square cake pan with butter or non-stick spray, then dust it lightly with flour, tapping out any excess. This ensures your cake will release like a dream.
2. Cream the Dream Base: In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of sugar and ½ cup of softened butter until the mixture is light, fluffy, and almost cloud-like. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, beating briefly after each addition to create a smooth, velvety texture. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a hint of warmth and sweetness.
3. Whisk the Dry Magic: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 ¾ teaspoons of baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pour in ½ cup of milk and stir gently until the batter is silky smooth, like a blank canvas ready for baking.
4. Pour with Care: Transfer the batter to your prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to release any air bubbles and ensure an even bake.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection: Slide the pan into the oven and let the cake bake for 30-40 minutes. It’s ready when the top springs back lightly to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Create: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, unleash your creativity—frost it with your favorite icing, dust it with powdered sugar, or top it with fresh berries for a pop of color. Slice, serve, and savor every bite of this timeless treat.

Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of almond extract to the batter.

• All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups): The sturdy foundation for your fluffy cake.
• Baking Powder (1 ¾ teaspoons): The magical leavening agent that gives the cake its rise.
• Butter, Unsalted (½ cup, softened): Rich and creamy, for a tender crumb and buttery flavor.
• Eggs, Large (2): The binding stars that add structure and richness.
• Milk (½ cup): The liquid that brings the batter together, ensuring a moist and tender cake.
• Sugar, White (1 cup): Sweetness to balance the flavors and create a light, airy texture.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): A warm, aromatic touch that elevates the cake’s flavor.