This classic layer cake is light, airy and so popular we put the recipe on the back of Swans Down Cake Flour boxes. Frost and decorate it to taste – it’s the cake for any occasion. Depending on how you wish customize this recipe, it can be baked in 3 (9-inch) round pans or 1 (9×13-inch) cake pan.
View Comments
Question, baking powder is double action, should I use one and a half, not 3 teaspoons
Hi Ann, 3 teaspoons of baking powder is the correct amount for this recipe. Happy baking!
Is it possible to replace baking powder with baking soda?
Hi Mark, You can replace baking powder with baking soda, but you would also have to add cream-of-tartar. To substitute 1 teaspoon baking powder, use ¼ teaspoon baking soda plus ½ teaspoon cream of tartar. Happy baking!
I would suggest NOT using buttermilk. Produced a flat cake despite making the recommended changes. Stick with the regular recipe as it’s perfect as is!
Can this recipe be used with cream cheese instead of milk?
Hi Tesha, With the difference in consistency and fat content we would not recommend using cream cheese in place of milk in this recipe. Happy baking!
Has anyone ever tried crushing freeze dried strawberries, sifting and measuring 3 ounces of that into the batter instead of jello mix? Too much strawberry? Love this cake as is but my toddler is requesting a strawberry version!
Can I use half an half instead of whole milk
Hi Kg, You should be okay to use half & half in instead of whole milk. Happy baking!
Can I make it within 30 minutes if I do a 2 or 3 layer cake
Hi Eva, Prep and bake time will likely be about the same whether you make a 2 or a 3 layer cake, about 50 minutes. Happy baking!
Can I use as cupcakes instead of cake pans?
Hi Summer, Yes you can use the 1234 Layer Cake for Cupcakes. The recipe would yield about 24 cupcakes when the tins are filled 2/3 of the way. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes or until tester inserted into cake comes out clean.bHappy baking.
Is this recipe for each (1) layer or is this enough to yield three layers?
Hi Ash, This recipe will yield a three layer cake. Happy baking!
I have made the 1234 cake for 20 years, sometimes it’s perfect and sometimes it’s a little dry. What am I doing wrong? . And I now have the coated dark pans, does that change cooking temp and/or the time to cook?
Hi Patty, Yes baking with dark coated pans will result in faster baking. You may need to lower the baking temperature by 25 degrees and test before
25 minutes or until tester inserted into cake comes out clean. Happy baking!