Key Info

Prep Time: 20-40 minutes

Cook Time: 18-25 minutes

Total Time: 40-70 minutes

Servings: 1-2

Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate

Cost: $10-$25

Dietary Tags

Adaptable: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free Options

Allergen Alert: Potential wheat, egg, dairy

Equipment Needed

• 4-5 inch round cake pan
• Electric mixer
• Offset spatula
• Piping bags (optional)
• Parchment paper

Ingredients

Cake Base

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (GF blend alternative)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Frosting

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2-4 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)

Optional Romantic Decorations

• Edible gold leaf
• Heart sprinkles
• Fondant toppers
• Mini chocolates

Method

1. Prep Station

• Measure all ingredients precisely
• Preheat oven to 350°F
• Grease cake pan
• Line with parchment paper

2. Mix Cake Batter

• Cream butter and sugar until fluffy
• Add egg, mix thoroughly
• Alternate adding dry and wet ingredients
• Mix until just combined (don’t overmix!)

3. Bake with Precision

• Pour batter into prepared pan
• Bake 18-25 minutes
• Check doneness:
  • Edges pull away from pan
  • Golden surface
  • Toothpick comes out clean

4. Cool Completely

• Remove from pan
• Rest on cooling rack 20-30 minutes

5. Frosting Magic

• Whip cream to stiff peaks
• Add powdered sugar
• Fold in vanilla
• Optional: Add food coloring

6. Decorate with Love

• Level cake layers
• Apply crumb coat
• Smooth final frosting layer
• Pipe romantic message:
  • “Love You 3000”
  • Initials
  • Small heart
  • Boyfriend’s favorite icon

Pro Tips

• Keep design minimalist
• Use steady hand for piping
• Personalize to his interests
• Refrigerate if not serving immediately

Variations

• Chocolate base
• Vegan substitutions
• Gluten-free flour
• Different flavor extracts

Storage

• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Cover loosely
• Best served room temperature

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t overbake
• Ensure frosting is stiff
• Avoid overcomplicated designs
• Let cake cool completely before frosting

Boyfriend Bonus Points

• Matches his favorite colors
• Incorporates his hobby/interest
• Handmade with personal touch

Trending Design Ideas

• Minimalist line art
• Sports team logo
• Gaming controller
• Black and gold aesthetic
• Favorite pop culture reference

Special Dietary Needs

• Vegan version available
• Gluten-free option
• Low-sugar modifications possible

Remember: It’s not just a cake. It’s a love letter you can eat! 💕🍰