Mother’s Day Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mother’s Day Cake is a beautiful, tender, and delicious centerpiece to celebrate the special moms in your life. This soft and moist cake is layered with fluffy frosting and decorated with pretty, simple touches that make it feel extra special. Whether you choose classic vanilla, lemon, or a fruity filling, this cake is sure to make Mom feel loved and appreciated.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
baking powder
salt
unsalted butter, softened
large eggs
whole milk or buttermilk
vanilla extract
fresh berries or fruit preserves (optional, for filling)
heavy cream or butter (for frosting)
powdered sugar
food coloring and sprinkles or edible flowers (optional, for decoration)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the milk, mixing until just combined—do not overmix.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the frosting, beat heavy cream or butter with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract until light and fluffy.

If desired, spread a layer of fresh berries or fruit preserves between the cake layers.

Frost the top and sides of the cake, then decorate with sprinkles, edible flowers, or piped designs.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields one 8-inch layer cake (about 12 slices).
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Cooling and decorating time: 1 hour
Total time: about 1 hour 50 minutes

Variations

Add lemon zest to the batter for a fresh citrus twist.
Use a strawberry or raspberry jam filling for a fruity surprise.
Decorate with fresh flowers or piped rosettes for an elegant touch.
Swap vanilla for almond extract for a delicate flavor variation.

storage/reheating

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Freeze leftover slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the layers a day in advance and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Frost before serving.

What frosting works best?
Buttercream or whipped cream frosting pairs perfectly with this light cake.

Can I color the frosting?
Absolutely! Add a few drops of food coloring for pastel pinks, purples, or Mom’s favorite shades.

Do I have to use a filling?
No, the cake is delicious plain, but a fruit filling adds extra flavor and moisture.

Can I make cupcakes instead?
Yes! Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 18-20 minutes.

Conclusion

Mother’s Day Cake is a sweet and thoughtful way to show Mom just how much she means to you. Soft, fluffy, and beautifully decorated, this homemade cake makes any celebration extra special. Make it your own with her favorite flavors and a heartfelt touch—she’ll love every bite!

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