The famous cake my mom baked in the 80s and 90s: simple and delicious

2 hours ago

In the 1980s and 1990s, homemade treats had a unique flavor. There was one cake my mom baked every week—”Mommy’s Soft Cake”—simple yet irresistible, it was a hit with everyone, both adults and children. It was a simple recipe, made with wholesome ingredients and without unnecessary additives, yet it had a unique flavor.

In this article, I’ll share a cake recipe that has shaped so many people’s childhoods, with the aroma and softness of a dessert that never goes out of style.

Ingredients for a traditional, soft cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make it as it was made back then:

3 eggs
180g sugar
200g all-purpose flour
80ml vegetable oil (or 100g softened butter)
100ml milk
1 sachet baking powder
Zest of 1 lemon (or vanilla, if desired)
Powdered sugar for garnish
Simple yet balanced ingredients for a soft, aromatic, and tall cake.

Preparation
1. Beat the eggs with the sugar.

Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Add the liquid ingredients.

Add the oil (or melted butter, if you prefer a traditional version) and room-temperature milk. Continue mixing.

3. Combine the dry ingredients.

Add the sifted flour, baking powder, and lemon zest. Stir gently from the bottom up to avoid blowing the mixture away.

4. Pour into the pan.

Grease and flour a 22-24 cm round cake pan. Pour in the batter and smooth it out.

5. Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 35-40 minutes. Test with a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

6. Decorate

Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a simple, retro touch.