Fabulous FlapJacks

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, then lightly flour it to prevent sticking.

In a small bowl, combine the molasses and baking soda, stirring gently until the mixture froths slightly as the acid-base reaction begins.

Cream the butter in a large mixing bowl until it becomes light and fluffy, then gradually incorporate the molasses mixture, beating continuously.

Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the creamed butter mixture, blending thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.

Gradually fold in the remaining dry ingredients, mixing just until no streaks remain and the batter is smooth and uniform in color.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.

Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is firm to the touch.

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.