Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious cake recipe? This simple cake comes together in just a few minutes and is perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and a short prep time, you’ll find yourself making this cake over and over again. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat or need a fast dessert for guests, this cake will deliver every time. With a light, fluffy texture and a delightful taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture to the cake, helping it rise and become fluffy.
- 90g (7 tablespoons) sugar: Sugar adds sweetness and helps create the light texture in the cake.
- 70ml (1/3 cup) oil: Oil adds moisture, making the cake soft and tender. You can use vegetable oil or any neutral oil of your choice.
- 100ml (1/2 cup) milk: Milk provides moisture and richness to the cake, making it light and fluffy.
- 160g (1 1/4 cups) flour: All-purpose flour forms the base of the cake and gives it structure.
- 10g (2 teaspoons) baking powder: Baking powder helps the cake rise and gives it a light, airy texture.
- Vanillin to taste: Vanillin adds a subtle, sweet vanilla flavor that enhances the cake’s taste.
Necessary Kitchen Equipment:
- Bowl: To mix the ingredients together.
- Spatula: For mixing and leveling the cake batter.
- 20cm baking tray: A round or square baking tray will work to bake the cake.
- Baking paper: To line the baking tray, preventing the cake from sticking.
- Oven: To bake the cake until golden and fully cooked.
Preparation Steps
Preparation of the Dough:
- Beat the Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar and vanillin until the mixture becomes frothy and light. The eggs should be well incorporated, and the mixture should have a pale, fluffy texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the oil and milk to the egg mixture and stir well until combined. The oil will ensure the cake stays moist, while the milk adds richness.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder directly into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Sifting the flour helps to prevent lumps and ensures even distribution of the baking powder. Gently mix the flour into the wet ingredients until the dough is smooth and homogeneous.
Cooking:
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Butter and flour a 20cm (8-inch) baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking. Alternatively, you can line the pan with baking paper for easy removal.
- Pour the Batter into the Pan: Pour the cake mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure an even rise during baking.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so check for doneness around the 25-minute mark.
Serving
Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Cut into slices and enjoy! This cake is delicious on its own or served with a dusting of icing sugar for a simple touch of sweetness. For an extra indulgence, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Tips
- Flavor Variations: You can customize the flavor of this cake by adding a teaspoon of cinnamon, lemon zest, or cocoa powder to the batter.
- Moisture: If you prefer a richer cake, consider using melted butter instead of oil for a more buttery flavor.
- Toppings: For a more decadent treat, top the cake with your favorite frosting or glaze, or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish.
Nutritional Benefits
This cake offers a quick and satisfying dessert with a few simple ingredients. While it’s not an overly rich cake, it still delivers a comforting sweetness and can be enjoyed in moderation as a part of a balanced diet.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This cake is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no animal products beyond eggs and milk.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or another plant-based milk. You can also use a dairy-free butter or oil for added moisture.
- Egg-Free Option: To make this cake egg-free, use a flax or chia egg substitute, which can be made by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
You can use whole wheat flour or cake flour instead of all-purpose flour, but note that this may affect the texture and density of the cake. Whole wheat flour will make the cake denser and more rustic.
2. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use one that is designed for baking to ensure the best texture and rise.
3. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate or freeze the cake.
4. Can I add fruits or nuts to the batter?
Absolutely! You can add fruits like berries, apples, or bananas, or incorporate nuts like walnuts or almonds to give the cake more texture and flavor. If using fruit, be sure to lightly flour them to prevent sinking to the bottom of the cake.
5. Can I turn this into a layered cake?
Yes! This cake recipe can easily be turned into a layered cake by doubling the ingredients and baking the batter in two separate pans. Once cooled, you can fill and frost the layers with your favorite filling or frosting.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If refrigerated, the cake will last for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, let it thaw at room temperature or gently warm it in the oven.
Conclusion
This quick and easy cake is perfect for when you need a delicious dessert in a hurry. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a great choice for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a no-fuss treat. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or topped with a scoop of ice cream, this cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try it today and discover why you’ll want to make this cake every day!