Easy School Cake Recipe: Nostalgic Baking!

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Do you remember the joy of school cake? That light, fluffy sponge topped with white icing and sprinkles? This classic treat brings back fond memories for many. If you’re craving a taste of nostalgia, or simply want an easy and delicious cake recipe, look no further! This school cake recipe is simple, straightforward, and perfect for bakers of all levels.

Why This School Cake Recipe Works

This recipe captures the essence of the classic school cake perfectly. Here’s why it’s so good:

  • Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples, making it accessible and affordable.
  • Easy to Follow: Clear, step-by-step instructions ensure success, even for novice bakers.
  • Light and Fluffy Texture: The perfect balance of ingredients creates a beautifully soft and airy sponge.
  • Nostalgic Flavor: The combination of vanilla sponge and sweet icing evokes those cherished childhood memories.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before you begin, gather these simple ingredients:

  • 225g (8 oz) butter, softened
  • 225g (8 oz) caster sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 225g (8 oz) self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Icing:

  • 200g (7 oz) icing sugar
  • 3-4 tbsp water
  • Sprinkles, for decoration

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake your own school cake:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F/ Gas Mark 4). Grease and line a rectangular baking tin (approximately 9x13 inches).
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This is a crucial step for achieving a good texture.
  3. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. If the mixture curdles, add a spoonful of flour.
  4. Fold in Flour: Gently fold in the self-raising flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
  5. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool: Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Make the Icing: In a bowl, mix together the icing sugar and water until you have a smooth, spreadable icing. Add more water, a teaspoon at a time, if needed.
  9. Ice and Decorate: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the icing evenly over the top. Immediately sprinkle with your favorite sprinkles before the icing sets.
  10. Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect School Cake

  • Use Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is properly softened for easy creaming. If you forget to take it out of the fridge in advance, you can microwave it in short bursts until softened, but be careful not to melt it.
  • Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
  • Cool Completely: Make sure the cake is completely cool before icing to prevent the icing from melting.
  • Get Creative with Sprinkles: Use different colors and shapes of sprinkles to make your cake extra fun and appealing.

Variations to Try

  • Lemon School Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a citrusy twist.
  • Chocolate School Cake: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate version. You can also add chocolate chips to the cake or the icing.
  • Different Flavor Extracts: Experiment with almond, orange, or other flavor extracts to customize the cake to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

School cake is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:

  • With a Cup of Tea: The classic pairing! A warm cup of tea complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
  • With Custard: Serve warm slices of cake with a generous dollop of creamy custard.
  • As a Dessert: A simple yet satisfying dessert for any occasion.

Conclusion

This school cake recipe is a delightful way to recreate a beloved childhood treat. With its simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can enjoy a slice of nostalgia anytime. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a cake that will bring a smile to your face!