1-2-3-4 Cake

Golden, buttery, and soft with just the right crumb — the 1-2-3-4 Cake is a timeless classic that has graced countless family tables. The moment it comes out of the oven, its sweet aroma fills the kitchen, promising slices that are as rich and tender as they are nostalgic. It’s the kind of cake that stands proudly on its own, yet is versatile enough to pair with frostings, fruits, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

Behind the Recipe

This cake has a story rooted in simplicity. Generations of bakers have loved the 1-2-3-4 Cake for its easy-to-remember formula: one cup of butter, two cups of sugar, three cups of flour, and four eggs. Passed down through kitchens where measuring cups and spoons were precious tools, this recipe taught that great baking doesn’t need to be complicated. With a few pantry staples, you could create a celebratory centerpiece that delighted everyone.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

The 1-2-3-4 Cake comes from the American tradition of “counting cakes,” recipes designed to be easily memorized. Much like the pound cake, which uses equal parts butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, this version streamlined the method and became popular in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its adaptability and reliability made it a favorite for birthdays, Sunday dinners, and potlucks — always dependable, always delicious.

Why You’ll Love 1-2-3-4 Cake

Versatile: Serve it plain, frost it with buttercream, or layer it with fruit and whipped cream.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that are affordable and easy to find.

Quick and Easy: The formula is straightforward and easy to remember.

Customizable: Add extracts, zests, or fillings to make it your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a slice of golden, tender cake.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it a day in advance, and it stays moist.

Great for Leftovers: Perfect for trifles, cake pops, or toasting with butter.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for the fluffiest batter.

Cream butter and sugar thoroughly, at least 3–4 minutes, to incorporate air.

Alternate adding flour and milk to prevent the batter from becoming dense.

Use cake flour instead of all-purpose for a finer crumb if desired.

Test for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center — it should come out clean.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.

Electric Mixer: Helps cream butter and sugar to perfection.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient ratios.

Cake Pans: Two 9-inch round pans or one 9×13-inch pan.

Cooling Rack: Ensures even cooling and prevents sogginess.

Ingredients in 1-2-3-4 Cake

The magic of this recipe lies in the balance of its simple ingredients, each one working in harmony to create a soft, flavorful cake.

1. Butter: 1 cup unsalted softened gives richness and tender crumb.
2. Granulated Sugar: 2 cups sweetens and aerates the batter.
3. All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups sifted provides structure while keeping texture light.
4. Eggs: 4 large add stability, richness, and color.
5. Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons ensures the cake rises evenly.
6. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon enhances overall flavor.
7. Whole Milk: 1 cup keeps the cake moist and fluffy.
8. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon adds warm, aromatic sweetness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter: Margarine or plant-based butter for dairy-free.

All-Purpose Flour: Cake flour for lighter texture.

Milk: Almond milk or oat milk for non-dairy versions.

Vanilla Extract: Almond extract for a nutty twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

Butter: The foundation of flavor and texture, it creates richness and a moist, tender crumb.

Eggs: They give the cake structure and contribute to its golden hue and delicate rise.

Instructions for Making 1-2-3-4 Cake

Baking this cake feels like a comforting ritual, with each step unfolding into a moment of anticipation for that first slice.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine Ingredients: Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Assemble the Dish: Alternate adding flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Cook to Perfection: Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Finishing Touches: Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or frosted with your favorite icing.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This cake is light but not too airy, with a moist crumb that melts in your mouth. The buttery base provides richness, while sugar adds caramelized notes at the edges. The vanilla brings warmth, making every slice fragrant and satisfying.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use parchment paper in pans for easy release.
• Do not overmix once flour is added, or the cake will be tough.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest for extra character.

What to Avoid

• Don’t rush creaming the butter and sugar, it’s essential for texture.
• Avoid opening the oven door too early, it can cause the cake to sink.
• Don’t overbake, as it will dry out quickly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 310

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freeze layers for up to 2 months, thawing them at room temperature before frosting.

How to Serve 1-2-3-4 Cake

Serve as a layer cake with buttercream or whipped cream frosting, or keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries and a cup of tea or coffee. For celebrations, stack it high with fruit and cream for a show-stopping centerpiece.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Turn slices into cake pops dipped in chocolate.

Crumble into trifles layered with pudding and fruit.

Toast slices lightly and serve with butter for a sweet breakfast treat.

Additional Tips

For extra moisture, brush cake layers with simple syrup before frosting.

Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.

Always sift flour for a lighter, fluffier cake.

Make It a Showstopper

Frost the cake in smooth layers of buttercream, garnish with fresh berries, and add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for elegance. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce makes it even more irresistible.

Variations to Try

Add cocoa powder to transform it into a chocolate cake.

Fold in citrus zest for a bright lemon or orange version.

Swirl in jam or fruit puree before baking for a marbled effect.

Bake in a bundt pan for a different presentation.

FAQ’s

1. Why is it called 1-2-3-4 Cake?

Because it follows the formula of 1 cup butter, 2 cups sugar, 3 cups flour, and 4 eggs.

2. Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?

Yes, divide batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18–20 minutes.

3. Can I use self-rising flour?

Yes, just reduce or omit the baking powder.

4. How do I keep the cake moist?

Do not overbake, and store properly wrapped.

5. Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, freeze unfrosted layers for up to 2 months.

6. What frosting goes best with this cake?

Buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream.

7. Can I halve the recipe?

Yes, bake in one 9-inch round pan or an 8×8-inch square pan.

8. Do I need to sift the flour?

Yes, sifting helps achieve a light crumb.

9. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, though butter gives better flavor.

10. Is this cake similar to pound cake?

It’s lighter and fluffier than a traditional pound cake.

Conclusion

The 1-2-3-4 Cake is more than just a recipe, it’s a piece of baking history. With its simple formula and delightful results, it’s the cake you’ll turn to again and again. Trust me, this one’s worth every bite — a true classic that never goes out of style.

watch how to make 1-2-3-4 Cake