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What is School Cake?

School cake, a beloved British classic, has been a nostalgic favorite in school cafeterias for decades. With its simple, fluffy texture and vibrant icing topped with sprinkles, this cake is an unmistakable nod to the past, conjuring up memories of childhood lunches and shared treats among friends. But this cake is not just for kids; adults across generations have cherished this comforting dessert, making it a timeless option for any gathering. School cake offers the joy of something familiar, with ingredients that are easy to find and steps simple enough for even beginner bakers to master.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect School Cake

To create this delightful cake, you don’t need fancy ingredients—just the essentials found in most kitchens. Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need, laid out in an easy-to-follow table.

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Plain flour	200g	Sifted for smooth texture
Baking powder	1 tsp	For extra fluffiness
Butter	200g	Softened at room temp
Sugar	200g	Granulated or caster
Eggs	4 large	Adds richness and texture
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	Optional, for extra flavor
Milk	2-3 tbsp	For a smoother batter
Icing sugar	150g	For the topping
Water	2-3 tbsp	Mix with icing sugar
Sprinkles	2 tbsp	Adds color and fun!

These simple ingredients come together to make a soft, fluffy cake with a sweet, playful topping that brings back memories of childhood.

Step-by-Step School Cake Recipe Instructions

Let’s break down the steps to make this beloved dessert. Follow each step carefully, and soon you’ll have a cake that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.

Preparing the Batter

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and greasing a rectangular baking pan. Lining the pan with parchment paper helps to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
Mix Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until they’re light and fluffy. This step helps to incorporate air, giving your cake a softer texture.
Add Eggs One at a Time: Add each egg one by one, beating well after each addition. This helps create a smoother batter and prevents curdling.
Incorporate the Flour and Baking Powder: Sift the flour and baking powder together, and gradually fold them into the mixture. Be gentle with this step to keep the batter airy.
Add Milk for Consistency: Add milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency—a smooth, pourable batter that’s not too thick or too runny.

Baking the Cake

Pour and Bake: Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important for the icing to set well.

Decorating Your School Cake

Now comes the fun part—decorating!

Prepare the Icing: Combine the icing sugar with a few tablespoons of water. Stir until you have a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Apply the Icing: Spread the icing over the cooled cake, covering it completely.
Add Sprinkles: Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of colorful sprinkles over the icing, capturing the classic look of a traditional school cake.

Tips & Tricks for a Perfect School Cake

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced baker, these tips can help you achieve that perfect texture and taste.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh flour, butter, and eggs make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room-temperature butter and eggs helps create a smooth batter, which leads to a softer, fluffier cake.
Gentle Mixing: Avoid over-mixing the batter after adding the flour, as this can lead to a dense cake. Fold gently to keep the batter light and airy.
Cool Completely Before Icing: It’s tempting to ice the cake as soon as it’s out of the oven, but icing a warm cake will cause the icing to melt and become runny. Patience is key here!

SCHOOL CAKE RECIPE | SPRINKLE VANILLA SPONGE CAKE | TRAY BAKE
There are other cake recipes in the link below
Chantilly Cake Recipe: A Slice of Heaven

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Once your cake is ready, you’ll want to savor every bite. Here are some ideas for serving and storing your school cake to keep it fresh and tasty.

Serving Ideas

Classic Squares: Cut the cake into squares or rectangles for an authentic school-cake experience.
Pair with Fresh Berries: A side of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries provides a bright, fresh contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
Enjoy with a Cup of Tea or Milk: This cake is perfect with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a cold glass of milk.

Storage Tips

Airtight Container: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist and fresh.
Refrigerate for Longer Storage: If you need to keep it for longer, you can refrigerate the cake. Just be sure to cover it tightly to avoid drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

To make sure you have all the details you need, here are some answers to common questions about school cake.

What is school cake made of?
School cake is made from simple ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, topped with a classic icing and colorful sprinkles.

Can I make school cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free alternative. Just be mindful that the texture may be slightly different.

How do I keep the cake moist?
The key to a moist cake is to measure ingredients carefully, avoid over-mixing, and store the cake in an airtight container once it has cooled completely.

Is school cake freezer-friendly?
Yes, school cake can be frozen. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?
Certainly! You can double the recipe and use a larger baking pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as a larger cake will take longer to bake through.

Conclusion

School cake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a slice of nostalgia that brings comfort and joy with every bite. With its simple ingredients, easy instructions, and delightful flavor, it’s no wonder this cake remains a beloved favorite across generations. Now, it’s your turn to bring a piece of the past into your kitchen.

Call to Action

Try this school cake recipe and let us know how it turns out! Share a photo, leave a comment, or rate the recipe below. We’d love to hear your memories and experiences with this delightful cake—whether it’s your first time making it or a favorite family tradition.