We’ve always cherished the playful charm of the classic Patty Cake nursery rhyme and now we’re bringing that joy straight to your kitchen with our simple Patty Cake Recipe. It’s a versatile treat that’s easy to whip up using everyday ingredients making it perfect for family baking sessions or a quick dessert.
In our experience this recipe delivers moist flavorful results every time. Whether you’re a beginner or a baking enthusiast we’ll show you how to create a delightful cake that adds a touch of nostalgia to your table.
Ingredients
In our Patty Cake Recipe, we gather straightforward, everyday ingredients that blend seamlessly to create a moist and flavorful treat, perfect for family baking adventures. We’ve organized this list in the order of use, with prep notes for clarity and precision.
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups, sifted to ensure a light and airy texture as the base of our batter.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, measured and set aside for sweetening the mixture evenly.
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup (1 stick), softened at room temperature to cream smoothly with other ingredients.
- Large eggs: 2, cracked fresh for binding and adding richness to the cake.
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon, to help our patty cake rise perfectly without any lumps.
- Whole milk: ½ cup, added gradually for achieving the ideal batter consistency.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, pure and high-quality to infuse a warm, nostalgic flavor throughout.
This selection highlights our commitment to simple, reliable components that deliver consistent results every time.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into mixing our simple Patty Cake Recipe ingredients like all-purpose flour and unsalted butter, let’s ensure we have the essential equipment on hand. This setup not only streamlines the baking process but also helps achieve that light, airy texture we love in every batch.
We recommend gathering these key items, organized by their role in the recipe for seamless preparation:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized stainless steel or glass bowls for combining dry ingredients such as baking powder and all-purpose flour with wet ones like eggs and whole milk. Opt for ones with a non-slip base to keep things steady during vigorous mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of precise measuring cups (for liquids like whole milk) and spoons (for small amounts of vanilla extract or baking powder) to guarantee accurate measurements, ensuring consistent, flavorful results every time we bake.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: An electric hand mixer for quickly creaming unsalted butter and granulated sugar, or a sturdy whisk if we’re opting for a hands-on approach. This tool is crucial for incorporating air and achieving the moist, tender crumb that makes our Patty Cake Recipe a family favorite.
- Baking Pan: A 9-inch round cake pan (greased and lined with parchment paper) to hold the batter as it bakes to golden perfection. Choose one with even heat distribution for reliable outcomes.
- Spatula and Oven Mitts: A flexible silicone spatula for gently folding in ingredients without deflating the batter, paired with heat-resistant oven mitts to safely handle the pan during baking and cooling.
By preparing this equipment ahead, we set ourselves up for a smooth, enjoyable baking experience that complements the straightforward ingredients list and delivers nostalgic, delicious results.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, we’re excited to guide you through crafting our irresistible Patty Cake. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a moist, flavorful treat that captures the nostalgic charm of this classic recipe.
Prep
Before we begin mixing, let’s prepare our workspace and ingredients for seamless baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking, and generously grease a 9-inch round baking pan with unsalted butter or a non-stick spray to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, measure out the dry ingredients first: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder—sifting them together creates a lighter texture that promises a fluffy cake. For the wet components, soften 1/2 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature until it’s creamy and easy to blend, then crack 2 large eggs into a separate bowl. Gather 1 cup of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ensuring all items are at room temperature for optimal mixing and a smooth batter.
Mix
With our ingredients prepped, we’re ready to combine them into a delightful batter. In the large mixing bowl, whisk the dry ingredients vigorously until they’re well incorporated, forming a fine, powdery mixture that will give our Patty Cake its signature lightness. In another bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture turns pale and fluffy—you’ll notice a creamy texture that signals perfect aeration. Add the 2 large eggs one at a time, beating after each addition to keep the mixture smooth, then pour in the 1 cup of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until fully blended. Finally, gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients with a flexible spatula, stirring gently to avoid overmixing and maintain that airy consistency—the batter should look glossy and pour easily, hinting at the tender crumb ahead.
Bake
Now it’s time to transform our batter into a golden delight. Pour the mixed batter evenly into the greased 9-inch round baking pan, using the spatula to smooth the top for an even rise. Place the pan in the center of the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes—check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, releasing a warm, sweet aroma that fills your kitchen. Keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking, as this ensures a moist, flavorful result that retains the playful essence of our Patty Cake.
Cool
Once baking is complete, we’re almost ready to enjoy our creation, but cooling is key for the best texture. Carefully remove the pan from the oven using heat-resistant oven mitts and place it on a wire rack to cool for about 10 minutes—this allows the cake to set while the steam escapes, preventing sogginess. After that, gently run a knife around the edges and invert the cake onto the rack to cool completely for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until it reaches room temperature—the surface will firm up, revealing a soft, springy feel that’s perfect for serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Patty Cake Recipe even more convenient for busy bakers, we recommend preparing certain elements in advance without compromising the cake’s light, airy texture or nostalgic flavor. This approach allows us to streamline the baking process while ensuring consistent, delicious results every time.
Preparing Ingredients Ahead
We can get a head start by prepping the dry ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. This keeps our workflow smooth and helps maintain the recipe’s simplicity. Here’s how:
- Sift and store dry ingredients: Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a large mixing bowl. Sift them together to ensure even distribution, then transfer to an airtight container. Label it with the date to keep things organized.
- Measure wet ingredients: For efficiency, measure out 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (softened), 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of whole milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into separate sealed containers. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours, but let the butter and eggs reach room temperature before use to avoid altering the batter’s creamy consistency.
Assembling and Storing Batter
If we’re short on time, we can mix the full batter ahead and store it for later baking. This method preserves the Patty Cake‘s moist, flavorful profile with minimal effort.
- Mix and refrigerate: Follow the initial steps from our recipe—blend the wet ingredients until creamy, then gently fold in the sifted dry ingredients to create a smooth batter. Once mixed, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Note: Chilling may slightly firm the batter, so let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before pouring into the pan.
- Freezing for longer storage: For make-ahead planning beyond a day, portion the batter into a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir gently before baking to restore its airy texture.
Baking and Storing the Cake
Our Patty Cake bakes beautifully ahead of time, making it ideal for family gatherings or quick desserts. Proper storage ensures it stays fresh and evokes that playful nursery rhyme charm.
- Bake in advance: Prepare and bake the cake as outlined in the previous section, then cool it completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent staleness.
- Refrigerate or freeze: Store the wrapped cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature for 1–2 hours if frozen. For the best taste, warm gently in the oven at 300°F for 5–10 minutes to refresh its golden crust and soft interior.
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we empower bakers of all levels to enjoy our Patty Cake Recipe with ease, turning everyday ingredients into a delightful, nostalgic treat.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this simple Patty Cake recipe that’s full of charm and ease. It’s a fun way to spark joy in your kitchen and create lasting memories with family.
We’re confident you’ll find it a reliable go-to for delicious, nostalgic treats that always turn out just right. Give it a try and make it your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Patty Cake Recipe?
A Patty Cake Recipe is a simple, fun twist on the classic nursery rhyme, creating a light and moist cake that’s perfect for family baking. It uses everyday ingredients for an easy dessert that evokes nostalgia, suitable for beginners and pros alike.
What ingredients are needed for the Patty Cake?
The key ingredients include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, large eggs, baking powder, whole milk, and vanilla extract. They’re chosen for their roles in achieving a fluffy texture and rich flavor, ensuring reliable results with basic pantry staples.
What equipment do I need to make Patty Cake?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or whisk, a 9-inch round baking pan, a flexible spatula, and oven mitts. Preparing these items ahead ensures smooth baking and helps create that airy, delicious cake effortlessly.
How do I make Patty Cake step by step?
Start by preheating your oven and greasing the pan. Sift dry ingredients like flour and baking powder, then blend wet ones like butter, eggs, and milk until creamy. Combine mixtures gently, pour into the pan, and bake until golden. Cool completely for the best texture—simple and straightforward!
Can I prepare Patty Cake ahead of time?
Yes, mix dry ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, or prepare the full batter and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze the batter or bake the cake ahead and store it properly to keep it fresh, making it convenient for busy schedules.
How should I store the Patty Cake?
Store cooled Patty Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic for up to 3 months—thaw before serving for that fresh-baked taste.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The Patty Cake Recipe uses simple ingredients and clear steps, making it ideal for novice bakers. With straightforward instructions and everyday items, you’ll get moist, flavorful results every time, building confidence in the kitchen.