The basic ingredients for a cake are:

• Flour: This is the main ingredient in a cake and provides structure.
• Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps to create a light and airy texture.
• Butter: This adds richness and flavor to the cake.
• Eggs: These bind the ingredients together and help to create a light and fluffy texture.
• Milk: This adds moisture to the cake.
• Leavening agents: These help the cake to rise. There are two main types of leavening agents: baking powder and baking soda. Baking powder is a combination of baking soda and an acid, such as cream of tartar. When baking powder is mixed with wet ingredients, it releases carbon dioxide bubbles, which help the cake to rise. Baking soda is a base, and when it is mixed with an acid, it also releases carbon dioxide bubbles.
• Flavorings: These can include vanilla extract, almond extract, or lemon zest.

There are many different types of cakes, so the ingredients may vary depending on the recipe. For example, a chocolate cake will typically include cocoa powder, and a red velvet cake will include red food coloring.

Here is a basic recipe for a vanilla cake:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

Enjoy!