Recipes

1-2-3-4 cake

1 Mins read
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Introduction

The “1-2-3-4 Cake” is a delightful confection that has captured the hearts of dessert enthusiasts. With its unique blend of citrus and sweetness, this cake offers an unforgettable taste experience that stands out in any baking repertoire.

Tips for This Recipe

To achieve perfect results with the “1-2-3-4 Cake,” it’s crucial to use room temperature ingredients, as they combine more effectively. Additionally, sifting cake flour and separating eggs are key steps that contribute to a light, airy texture in the final product.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

The “1-2-3-4 Cake” is not only simple to prepare but also presents an innovative twist on traditional cakes by incorporating citrus flavors that are both refreshing and comforting. It’s perfect for those seeking a homemade treat with a hint of zest in their life, promising joy at every bite.

Ingredients

3 cups sifted cake flour (not self-rising)
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon plain salt
1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs, separated, at room temperature
1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
3/4 cup sugar

Advised Equipment

Stand Mixer with Dough Hooks, Pie or Cake Pan (9-inch), Silicone Spatula, Digital Kitchen Scale, Airtight Container with Lid, Piping Bag and Tips.

History of the Recipe

While we may not have an extensive history on file for this particular “1-2-3-4 Cake,” it’s reasonable to surmise that its name is derived from a fun, playful approach to cake recipes. The integration of three distinct citrus juices suggests a creative experiment with flavors, aimed at delivering an innovative dessert experience rather than adhering strictly to traditional methods or naming conventions in baking.

Fun Facts About This Recipe

The “1-2-3-4 Cake” stands out for its use of three different citrus juices, which not only contribute unique flavors but also play a role in the cake’s texture and structure. The interplay between orange, lemon, and milk creates a harmonious balance that sets this cake apart from others. Moreover, using a stand mixer with dough hooks makes it possible for bakers of all skill levels to achieve professional results without extensive experience or equipment.

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1-2-3-4 cake

1-2-3-4 cake

amanda

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer with Dough Hooks - This tool simplifies mixing and kneading ingredients, making it easier to prepare the batter smoothly.

  • Pie or Cake Pan (9-inch) - The size mentioned in "1-2-3-4 cake" might correspond to a standard 9-inch pan for a layered cake.

  • Silicone Spatula - A versatile tool used for mixing, folding ingredients, and scraping bowls cleanly without scratching the surface.

  • Digital Kitchen Scale - For precise measurements of ingredients, especially when baking requires accuracy in proportions.

  • Airtight Container with Lid (for storage) - After baking, this container helps keep your cake fresh for longer by sealing it from air exposure.

  • Piping Bag and Tips - Although not essential, they can be used to decorate the cake beautifully if you're making one with frosting or whipped cream as a filling.

Ingredients

  • Softened butter and flour, for the pans

  • N/A and flour

  • 3 cups sifted cake flour (not self-rising)

  • 4 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon plain salt

  • 1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature

  • 2 cups sugar

  • 4 large eggs, separated, at room temperature

  • 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

  • 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • 3/4 cup sugar

  • 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest

Instructions

1

Instruction 1

Butter and flour the bottom and sides of three 8 by 1 1/2-inch cake pans with the softened butter, tipping out the excess flour.
2

Instruction 2

Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Beat the butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer on high speed until it is light, creamy, and fluffy, about 1 minute. Gradually add the sugar into the butter, and beat until the mixture is very light and fluffy, about 2 minutes more. As the sugar blends in it will change the color of the butter to a much lighter color, almost white.
3

Instruction 3

Whisk the egg yolks in a small bowl until they are well blended. Gradually beat into the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. With the mixer on low speed, starting with the flour mixture, add the flour mixture in thirds, alternating with two equal additions of the milk, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the vanilla. In a clean bowl using clean beaters beat the egg whites until they form firm, glossy peaks. Do not overbeat until they are stiff and dry. Fold the whites into the batter.
4

Instruction 4

Pour and scrape the batter into the prepared pans, dividing it equally among them. Give the filled pans a little knock on the countertop to level the batter. Bake in the center of a preheated 350°F oven for 25 minutes, or until each cake springs back when touched in the center. Remove the pans from the oven and put them on wire cake racks to cool for a few minutes, then loosen the layers by running the flat side of a knife blade around the sides of the pans, put a rack on top of each pan, and invert so the cake comes out onto the rack, top side down. Then reverse the layers so they are top side up.
5

Instruction 5

Mix the orange juice, lemon juice, sugar, and orange rind together and drizzle the mixture over the still warm cake layers, being careful not to let it all soak into one spot; then pile the layers on top of each other. Let the cake cool.
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