ISO:good basic cake

HI everybody, I'm searching a good basic cake recipe with which I can create all kinds of cakes like upside-down, "with fruit", add some nuts or so...It shouldn't be so fat like a pound cake and if it was one-bowl that'll be great.You know, I mean a thing to use instead of cake mix.I know I ask a lot but I'm a very unexperienced baker and kind of dissapointed by many failures.If somebody could give me some advice how -long to- bake -in-what-kind-of-pan that'll be fine, too.Happy baking from Germany!

[m brown]

GATEAUX AUX FRUITS

24 OZ BUTTER
2# BROWN SUGAR

16 EGGS
2 TBL. VANILLA

3# FLOUR
2 TBL BAKING POWDER
2 TBL BAKING SODA
2 TSP SALT
1 1/2 TBL CINNAMON
1 TBL GINGER
1 TBL NUTMEG
16 CUPS PEACHES
4 1/2 PINTS BLACK BERRIES

YIELD 4 BUNT PANS, GREASED AND SUGARED

bake at 350 f.

this formula can be cut, multiplied and utilizes any soft fruit in season!
enjoy.