We’ve always been captivated by desserts that blend nostalgia with a twist, and our Mortgage Cake Recipe is no exception. This indulgent treat originated from clever home bakers who turned simple ingredients into a rich, comforting masterpiece, perfect for celebrations or cozy nights in.
What sets it apart is its moist layers and decadent frosting that evoke warmth and satisfaction. We’re excited to share how this easy recipe can become your go-to for impressing family and friends, proving that great baking doesn’t have to be complicated.
Ingredients
For our Mortgage Cake Recipe, we carefully select fresh, high-quality ingredients to create its moist layers and rich frosting. Below, we list them in the order they are typically prepared and used, with prep specifics noted for accuracy.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure a light, airy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Measured precisely for the perfect sweetness that balances the cake’s depth.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Sifted to avoid lumps and enhance the chocolatey richness we love in every bite.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Fresh to provide the essential lift for fluffy layers.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Added for additional rise and tender crumb.
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs: At room temperature to blend smoothly and add moisture.
- 1 cup whole milk: Warmed slightly to help incorporate flavors evenly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Melted and cooled to contribute a creamy, indulgent mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: For its aromatic essence that elevates the cake’s nostalgic appeal.
For the Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sifted for a smooth, velvety finish.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Softened to whip into a fluffy consistency.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Chilled to achieve the ideal creamy texture we recommend for spreading.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: To infuse subtle flavor notes that tie the whole cake together.
This selection ensures our Mortgage Cake delivers a symphony of textures and tastes, from the tender crumb to the decadent frosting.
Required Equipment
With our carefully selected ingredients prepared, we now focus on the essential tools that help us craft the perfect Mortgage Cake, ensuring every step from mixing to baking delivers moist layers and rich frosting with ease.
To achieve optimal results, we recommend the following equipment, organized by their key roles in the process:
- Mixing bowls (medium and large): We use these sturdy bowls to combine dry ingredients like sifted flour and wet components such as eggs and melted butter, promoting even blending for a tender crumb.
- Measuring cups and spoons (set of 1-cup, ½-cup, and standard spoons): Accuracy is crucial for our Mortgage Cake’s flavor and texture, so we rely on these to measure ingredients precisely, avoiding any imbalances in sugar or cocoa.
- Electric mixer or handheld whisk: This tool allows us to whip the batter smoothly and beat the frosting ingredients until creamy, ensuring the cake’s decadent finish we love.
- 9-inch round cake pans (two): We bake our Mortgage Cake in these pans for even cooking and the signature layered structure that makes it ideal for celebrations.
- Sifter or fine-mesh strainer: Essential for aerating dry ingredients like cocoa powder and flour, we use this to create the light, airy texture that sets our cake apart.
- Spatula and rubber scraper: We employ these for folding ingredients and frosting the cake, helping maintain moisture without overmixing.
- Cooling rack: After baking, we place the cake layers here to cool evenly, preserving the rich flavors and preventing sogginess.
- Oven thermometer: To guarantee precise baking temperatures, we use this for consistent results every time, as oven variations can affect the cake’s rise and moisture.
By gathering these tools, we ensure our Mortgage Cake baking process is efficient and yields professional-quality results that impress.
Directions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to bake our irresistible Mortgage Cake, ensuring a moist, flavorful result that delights the senses with its rich chocolate aroma and tender texture.
Prep
First, we preheat our oven to 350°F for even baking. In a large mixing bowl, sift 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1½ teaspoons of baking powder, and 1½ teaspoons of baking soda to aerate the dry ingredients and create a light, fluffy base that promises a perfect crumb.
Next, in a medium mixing bowl, we whisk together the wet components: 2 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and glossy, enhancing the cake’s moisture and deep flavor profile.
Finally, we combine the wet and dry mixtures by gradually pouring the wet ingredients into the dry bowl and using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter forms a velvety, chocolatey consistency that hints at the decadent taste to come.
Bake
We grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking, then divide the batter evenly between them, ensuring each pan is filled about two-thirds full for optimal rising.
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, allowing the cake to develop a golden-brown crust and release an irresistible aroma that fills our kitchen with warmth.
Once baked, we remove the pans from the oven and let them rest briefly, noting the cakes’ springy texture as they begin to cool.
Cool and Assemble
We transfer the baked cakes to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely for about 1 hour, which helps preserve their moist interior and prevents the frosting from melting prematurely.
For the frosting, we beat 3 cups of powdered sugar with 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ¼ cup of chilled heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a large bowl using an electric mixer on high speed for 3-5 minutes until it forms a creamy, smooth topping that adds a luxurious sweetness to our Mortgage Cake.
To assemble, we place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then stack the second layer and frost the entire cake, finishing with optional chocolate shavings for a visually stunning, multi-layered treat that combines tender crumbs with velvety frosting for an unforgettable sensory experience.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify our Mortgage Cake baking process and ensure fresh, delicious results even on busy days, we can prepare components ahead of time without compromising flavor or texture. This approach allows us to focus on assembly when the moment is right, making it ideal for events or everyday treats.
Preparing the Cake Layers in Advance
We often recommend baking the cake layers up to three days ahead for optimal freshness. Follow these steps to store them properly:
- Bake as directed: Once the layers cool completely on the rack, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Refrigerate or freeze: For short-term storage, place the wrapped layers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to two months to maintain that moist, tender crumb.
- Thaw before use: If frozen, transfer the layers to the refrigerator overnight. Let them reach room temperature for about 30 minutes before frosting to ensure even adhesion.
Making the Frosting Ahead
Our creamy frosting for the Mortgage Cake can be prepared in advance, saving time on the day of serving. Here’s how to handle it:
- Mix as instructed: After beating the frosting until smooth, transfer it to an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge: Refrigerate the frosting for up to five days. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes and re-whip with an electric mixer to restore its fluffy consistency.
- Freezing option: For extended storage, freeze the frosting in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and re-whip as needed.
Assembling the Cake Ahead
If we want to partially assemble our Mortgage Cake, we can do so with these guidelines to keep everything fresh:
- Layer and frost partially: Stack and frost the cake layers, then cover the entire cake loosely with plastic wrap or place it under a cake dome.
- Refrigerate for short-term: Store the assembled cake in the refrigerator for up to two days. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to enhance flavors and soften the texture.
- Freezing the full cake: For make-ahead events, freeze the fully assembled and frosted cake for up to one month. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours and bring to room temperature before slicing.
| Component | Refrigeration Time | Freezing Time | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cake Layers | Up to 3 days | Up to 2 months | Wrap tightly to avoid freezer burn and maintain moisture. |
| Frosting | Up to 5 days | Up to 2 months | Re-whip after thawing for the best creamy texture. |
| Assembled Cake | Up to 2 days | Up to 1 month | Allow full thawing to preserve the Mortgage Cake‘s rich, velvety layers. |
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed sharing our Mortgage Cake Recipe with you, capturing that timeless charm in every bite. It’s a straightforward way to create memorable moments with family and friends.
As we wrap up, give this treat a go and discover how it elevates your baking game effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Mortgage Cake?
A Mortgage Cake is a nostalgic, easy-to-make dessert featuring moist layers and rich frosting, perfect for celebrations or cozy nights. This recipe adds a unique twist, combining simple ingredients for a tender crumb and creamy finish that impresses family and friends while keeping baking straightforward.
What ingredients are needed for a Mortgage Cake?
The recipe uses dry ingredients like sifted all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda for texture and flavor. Wet ingredients include eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract for moisture. For frosting, you’ll need powdered sugar, softened butter, heavy cream, and vanilla to create a smooth, decadent topping—all fresh and high-quality for the best results.
What tools are required to bake a Mortgage Cake?
You’ll need medium and large mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, an electric mixer or whisk, two 9-inch round cake pans, a sifter, spatulas, and a cooling rack. An oven thermometer ensures even baking, helping you achieve professional-quality results efficiently.
How do I bake a Mortgage Cake?
Preheat your oven to 350°F and sift dry ingredients together. Whisk wet ingredients until smooth, then combine both mixtures for a velvety batter. Divide into greased pans and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on a rack, prepare the frosting by beating ingredients until creamy, and assemble the layers for a stunning, delicious cake.
Can I prepare a Mortgage Cake in advance?
Yes, bake the cake layers up to three days ahead and store them wrapped in the fridge or freezer. Frosting can be made up to five days in advance and refrigerated, or frozen for two months. You can partially assemble the cake ahead, following tips for refrigeration and freezing to keep it fresh and ready for any occasion.
How should I store a Mortgage Cake?
Store unfrosted layers wrapped tightly in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer. Frosted cake should be refrigerated and consumed within five days, or frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge before serving to maintain moisture and flavor.
Why is this Mortgage Cake recipe ideal for beginners?
This recipe is beginner-friendly due to its simple steps, common ingredients, and clear instructions, making great baking accessible. It uses basic tools and offers make-ahead options, so even new bakers can create a moist, impressive cake without hassle.