A soft, tender cake studded with colorful chocolate gems for a fun and festive finish. This easy homemade dessert is perfect for celebrations or a cheerful everyday treat.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
In a small bowl, combine the milk and sour cream.
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
Toss the chocolate gems with 1 tablespoon of flour to help prevent them from sinking, then gently fold them into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
For the best texture, make sure the butter is softened but not melted. Tossing the chocolate gems in flour helps keep them evenly distributed throughout the cake.