Craving Nostalgia Try This Perfect School Cake Recipe

Transport yourself back to simpler times with our classic School Cake Recipe. Remember taking that first bite of a sweet, spongy slice after a day in the classroom? With this recipe, you can recreate those cherished moments and share them with your loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned baker, a parent looking for a family-friendly project, or simply a lover of nostalgic treats, the School Cake is bound to bring a smile to your face.

Follow this guide for a sweet trip down memory lane, complete with baking tips, fun variations, and pro tricks for perfect results every time.

The History of School Cake

The School Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a cultural treasure steeped in tradition. Popular across British schools in the mid-20th century, this cake was designed to be simple, affordable, and irresistibly delicious. With its spongy vanilla base, a thin layer of icing, and a dusting of rainbow sprinkles, it became a staple of school canteens everywhere.

Today, the School Cake isn’t just a memory. It’s a symbol of nostalgia that continues to delight bakers and their families across generations.

Ingredients

Get ready to gather these pantry staples for a fuss-free recipe:

• For the Cake:
  • 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
  • 200g (1¾ cups) self-raising flour
  • 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 4 medium eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 4 tbsp milk
• For the Icing:
  • 200g (1½ cups) powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp water or milk
  • Sprinkles for decoration (classic rainbow or any of your choice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2. Mix the Batter

1. Combine the sugar and butter in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer or whisk to cream them together until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Sift together the self-raising flour and baking powder in a separate bowl, then gently fold it into the wet mixture.
5. Add the milk to loosen the batter, ensuring everything is well combined, but avoid overmixing.

Step 3. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Set the cake on a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely.

Step 4. Ice and Decorate

1. Whisk together the powdered sugar and water or milk until smooth to create your icing.
2. Spread the icing evenly over the cooled cake.
3. Finish with a generous handful of sprinkles for that iconic School Cake look.
4. Allow the icing to set for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

• Always bring your ingredients to room temperature for smooth, even mixing.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Use parchment paper to make removing the cake from the pan a breeze.
• Check for doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
• For added moisture, brush the cake with a simple syrup before icing.
• To adjust icing consistency, add more powdered sugar if it’s too thin, or milk if it’s too thick.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to retain freshness.

Variations to Try

Take the classic School Cake to new heights with these creative variations:

• Lemon School Cake: Add zest from one lemon to the batter and top with a tangy lemon glaze instead of icing.
• Chocolate Chip School Cake: Mix a handful of chocolate chips into the batter for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
• Cinnamon School Cake: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter and sprinkle some over the icing for a warm, spiced touch.
• Gluten-Free School Cake: Substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a dietary-friendly twist.
• Vegan School Cake: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg substitutes to craft a vegan version everyone can enjoy.

The Joy of Baking and Sharing

Baking a School Cake is more than just producing a dessert; it’s about reliving memories, sharing smiles, and enjoying the sweet simplicity of a classic treat.

Why not make your baking experience even more meaningful? Share your School Cake photos with us on social media or explore more nostalgic recipes through our blog.

Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every crumb of your delightful creation!