There’s nothing quite like a homemade cake that brings back warm memories of family gatherings and special celebrations. Mom’s Best Cake is a timeless dessert that’s soft, moist, and filled with comforting flavors. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this classic cake is a must-have for anyone who loves a simple yet delicious homemade treat.
With a perfectly tender crumb and just the right balance of sweetness, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Best of all, it’s easy to make with everyday ingredients, making it the perfect go-to recipe for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients: No fancy ingredients—just pantry staples!
Light & Moist: A perfectly soft texture that stays fresh for days.
Versatile: Enjoy as-is, or dress it up with frosting, fruit, or glaze.
Easy to Make: Great for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Perfect for Any Occasion: A classic cake that’s great for any event.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (or butter for a richer flavor)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup low-fat buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Light cream cheese frosting
- A dusting of powdered sugar
- Fresh berries and a drizzle of honey
Instructions
Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, beat together the sugar, applesauce, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Mix Everything Together
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve & Enjoy
- Enjoy the cake plain, or add your favorite frosting or toppings for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
Calories: 160 | Carbs: 28g | Fat: 3g | Protein: 4g | Sugar: 10g
Tips for Success
- Measure Carefully: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid a dry cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined for a tender crumb.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking at 25 minutes.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add lemon zest, almond extract, or cinnamon for a unique twist.
Why This Recipe Works
- Moist & Fluffy: The combination of buttermilk and applesauce keeps the cake light yet rich.
- Balanced Sweetness: Just the right amount of sugar for a naturally sweet flavor.
- No-Fuss Baking: A simple, classic cake that always turns out delicious.
This homemade cake is a timeless favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain with a cup of coffee or topped with frosting for a celebration, it’s guaranteed to bring comfort and joy with every bite. Try it today and experience the simple, delicious flavors that make Mom’s Best Cake a true classic!
Mom’s Best Cake: A Homemade Treat Full of Love and Flavor
12
servings20
minutes30
minutes160
kcalIngredients
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened applesauce (or butter for a richer flavor)
2 large eggs
1 cup low-fat buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
Light cream cheese frosting
A dusting of powdered sugar
Fresh berries and a drizzle of honey
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. - Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together the sugar, applesauce, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. - Mix Everything Together
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. - Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. - Serve & Enjoy
Enjoy the cake plain, or add your favorite frosting or toppings for extra flavor.
Notes
- Measure Carefully: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid a dry cake.
Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined for a tender crumb.
Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking at 25 minutes.
Enhance the Flavor: Add lemon zest, almond extract, or cinnamon for a unique twist.