Baking a cake in a microwave oven requires a slightly different approach than baking in a conventional oven. While it may not be exactly the same as an oven-baked cake, you can still achieve a soft and fluffy texture by following these steps:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the microwave-safe cake pan: Use a microwave-safe cake pan or dish. You can use a silicone or microwave-safe glass dish. Grease the inside with a little oil or butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add the dry ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour and baking powder into the wet mixture. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones, ensuring there are no lumps. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as it can result in a dense cake.
Adjust sweetness (optional): If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can add more sugar to the batter according to your taste.
Pour the batter into the cake pan: Pour the cake batter into the prepared microwave-safe cake pan, making sure it is evenly distributed.
Microwave the cake: Place the cake pan in the microwave and cook the cake on medium power (around 50-60% power) for about 5-6 minutes. Microwave times may vary, so keep a close eye on the cake while it's cooking. You can use a toothpick or cake tester to check if the cake is done. Insert it into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Let it rest: Once the cake is done, remove it from the microwave and let it cool for a few minutes in the pan. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for a soft and fluffy cake:
- Avoid overmixing the batter, as it can result in a tough cake. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Use fresh baking powder to ensure proper leavening and a fluffy texture.
- Don't overcook the cake in the microwave, as it can dry out the cake. Check for doneness by using a toothpick or cake tester in the center of the cake.
- Experiment with cooking times and microwave power settings to find the best result for your specific microwave oven.
Remember that microwave ovens vary in power and performance, so it may take a bit of experimentation to get the perfect timing for your cake. Enjoy your microwave-baked cake, and feel free to add frosting or your favorite toppings to enhance the flavor!