the big zero-one

Our youngest celebrated her one year birthday last weekend.

 

Born last year the day after thanksgiving. 

Thanksgiving time is a good time to celebrate a birthday. After all, a birthday is a time to be thankful for the life the Lord has given us. And we are very thankful for our Susannah.

Chocolate cake is a must for first birthdays. Finger food at its finest. Perfect fodder for photography sessions.

My favorite recipe (so far) comes from the Better Homes & Gardens cookbook. It pairs nicely with browned butter frosting. I do have to say, it isn't the goopiest chocolate cake recipe I've ever had, so if you're going for a really messy baby face for those classic first birthday pictures another recipe might suit. However, this one is so tasty I am willing to sacrifice a little classic messiness. Besides, licking the beaters usually provides ample chocolate smearage.

 

Chocolate Cake

3/4 cup butter, set at room temperature 30 minutes

3 eggs, set at room temperature 30 minutes

2 cups flour

3/4 cup cocoa powder

1 tsp baking soda

3/4 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

2 cups sugar

2 tsp vanilla

1 1/2 cups milk

Lightly grease bottoms of two 9x1 1/2 inch round cake pans and line bottoms of pans with waxed paper. Grease and lightly flour bottoms and sides of pans. 

Mix dry ingredients in a small bowl.

In a large mixing bowl beat butter for 30 seconds. Gradually add sugar and beat until well combined then continue beating for 2 minutes. Add eggs 1 at a time and beat until combined. Beat in vanilla. Alternately add flour mixture and milk and beat until combined. Spread batter into pans. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes. 

And then, of course, there was the ritual photo shoot...

 

 

 Elegant dresses and pearls are all wonderful, but this is the Susannah I know and love...