Easy School Cake Recipe: A Nostalgic Treat
Is there anything more nostalgic than a slice of school cake? This simple traybake, often topped with icing and sprinkles, brings back memories of school dinners and childhood joy. If you’re craving a taste of the past, here’s an easy-to-follow recipe to recreate this classic treat at home.
What is School Cake?
School cake, also known as 'old school cake', is a straightforward sponge cake baked in a tray. What sets it apart is the layer of white icing and the scattering of colorful sprinkles. It’s a no-fuss, comforting cake that’s perfect for a simple afternoon treat.
Easy School Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 225g (8 oz) softened butter or margarine
- 225g (8 oz) caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 225g (8 oz) self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- A splash of milk (if needed)
For the Icing:
- 250g (9 oz) icing sugar
- 3-4 tbsp water
- Sprinkles, for decoration
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/Gas Mark 4). Grease and line a rectangular baking tray (approximately 9x13 inches) with baking parchment.
- 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 a light and airy cake.
- Add Eggs: Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. If the mixture starts to curdle, add a spoonful of flour.
- Fold in Flour: Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder into the bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
- Add Milk (If Needed): If the batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen the mixture slightly. The batter should be of a dropping consistency.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Icing: While the cake is cooling, prepare the icing. In a bowl, mix the icing sugar with water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Ice and Decorate: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the icing evenly over the top. Immediately sprinkle generously with colorful sprinkles before the icing sets.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into squares or rectangles and serve. Enjoy a nostalgic trip down memory lane!
Tips for the Perfect School Cake
- Use Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is properly softened to achieve a smooth and creamy batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a dense 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 your favorite sprinkles to add a personal touch to your school cake.
Variations
- 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 dry ingredients for a chocolate version.
Why This Recipe Works
This school cake recipe is perfect because it’s simple, straightforward, and delivers a consistently delicious result. The combination of light sponge and sweet icing makes it a comforting treat that everyone will love. Plus, it's a great way to involve kids in baking, creating new memories while reliving old ones.
Serving Suggestions
School cake is best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s perfect for:
- Afternoon tea
- Lunchboxes
- Parties
- A simple dessert
Call to Action
Ready to bake your own nostalgic treat? Try this easy school cake recipe and bring back those cherished childhood memories. Share your creations with friends and family, and spread the joy of this classic cake! Find more baking recipes here.
