The Baking Process Unveiled
Step 1: Preparing the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Set this dry mixture aside for now.
Step 3: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a larger mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that wonderful, tender cake texture.
Step 4: Adding the Eggs and Almond Extract
Beat in 4 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, introduce the magic touch of 1 teaspoon of almond extract, enhancing the cake’s flavor profile.
Step 5: The Perfect Marriage of Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter and egg mixture, alternating with 1 cup of whole milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients to create a harmonious batter.
Step 6: The Final Flourish
Gently fold in 1 cup of melted white chocolate chips and 1 cup of fresh raspberries. This is where the cake gets its unique combination of flavors and textures, so be sure not to overmix.
Step 7: Baking Time
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Let It Cool
Once baked to perfection, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or indulging.