The truth is, homemade cake takes just a few extra steps, and the rich, fresh flavor is unbeatable. Besides, with an affinity for "baking" that goes back to mud-pie days, most kids love to measure and mix.

Here, we offer recipes for our favorite yellow and chocolate cakes and four flavorful frostings, plus tips for piping on fancy finishes.

Here are a few small hints that will make a big difference when baking a cake:

• Use the best ingredients available: high-quality butter, fresh eggs, and new baking powder.

• Measure ingredients (especially baking powder and baking soda) precisely.

• Be sure to cream the butter and sugar well; this step is what gives a cake its light texture.

• Cool cakes completely before frosting.

• For the freshest taste, serve cake on the day you bake.