How long does it take to bake a 9-inch cake?

It's impossible to say exactly how long it takes to bake a 9-inch cake without knowing more about the cake recipe.

Baking time for a 9-inch cake depends on several factors:

* Type of cake: A dense cake like pound cake will take longer than a light and fluffy cake like angel food cake.

* Recipe: Different recipes will call for different baking times.

* Oven: Ovens can vary in temperature, so it's always a good idea to check the cake with a toothpick to see if it's done.

* Pan: A dark pan will absorb more heat and may require a slightly shorter baking time than a light-colored pan.

General Guidelines:

* Most cakes: 30-45 minutes

* Dense cakes (pound cake, fruitcake): 45-60 minutes

* Light and fluffy cakes (angel food, chiffon): 25-35 minutes

Always follow the recipe's instructions for baking time, but remember to check the cake for doneness:

1. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake.

2. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

3. If there's batter stuck to the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

Important Tip: It's always better to underbake a cake than overbake it. A slightly underbaked cake can be salvaged by baking it for a few more minutes, but an overbaked cake will be dry and crumbly.