Cake Recipes With Few Ingredients

Name: Cake Recipes With Few Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Crumbs

I absolutely love baking, especially when it comes to whipping up simple yet delicious cakes. Cake recipes that require only a few ingredients make it easy and fun for anyone to join in the baking process without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes will show you that you don't need many ingredients to create a delightful dessert. In this collection, we’ll explore various cake recipes that highlight the beauty of simplicity, allowing the flavors to shine through.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:28:18.497Z

Baking has always been a way for me to express my creativity, and I've found that using minimal ingredients can really highlight the flavors of each component. For instance, a simple sponge cake made with just eggs, sugar, and flour showcases the delicate texture beautifully. I love experimenting with how these basic ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary.

One of my favorite tips when making a cake with few ingredients is to ensure your eggs are at room temperature before whisking. This helps the batter to aerate better, resulting in a fluffier cake. It’s amazing how such small details can make a big difference in the final product!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easy to follow with minimal ingredients
Perfect for spontaneous baking days
Versatile base for adding your favorite flavors

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this cake serves a specific purpose, contributing to its overall structure and flavor. The all-purpose flour forms the backbone of the cake, providing stability and texture. Pairing it with baking powder allows the cake to rise, creating a fluffy interior. The sugar not only sweetens the batter but also aids in browning, giving the cake a lovely golden color. Lastly, the eggs act as a binder, helping to unify all the ingredients while adding moisture.

Butter brings richness and a delightful flavor to the cake. When creamed with sugar, it incorporates air, which helps to create a light texture. It's important to ensure your butter is softened to room temperature; this allows for better aeration during mixing. If you want a lighter version, consider substituting half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce, which will reduce calories while maintaining moisture.

Baking Tips for Success

Preheating the oven is crucial for even baking. I recommend using an oven thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate, especially if your oven tends to have hot spots. If the cake is browning too quickly on the top, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning while ensuring the inside continues to cook through.

When checking for doneness, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, give the cake an additional 3-5 minutes in the oven. Be cautious not to over-bake, as this can lead to a dry texture. Remember that the cake will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven due to residual heat.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start:

Basic Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix these ingredients well to create a delicious cake batter!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your cake plain or dress it up with some frosting or fruit!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or orange zest to the batter. This small addition can elevate the cake significantly.

Storing and Serving

Once the cake has cooled completely, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This will keep them fresh for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a quick treat.

To elevate the cake's flavor, try serving it with a simple glaze or fresh fruits. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream goes a long way, especially when paired with berries. For a twist, consider adding citrus zest to the batter or topping, which can brighten the overall flavor profile.

Variations and Flavor Additions

This base cake recipe is incredibly versatile. You can infuse the batter with different flavors by adding cocoa powder for a chocolate version or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm, cozy alternative. If you’re a fan of citrus, a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest can add a refreshing note, making each bite burst with flavor.

Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the batter for added texture and flavor. Just be cautious not to overload the batter, as this can affect the cake's rise. Aim for about one cup of mix-ins; this will maintain a good balance without compromising the cake’s structure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute any ingredients?

Yes, you can use coconut oil instead of butter and any non-dairy milk if you want to make it dairy-free.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to make the cake more flavorful?

Try incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the batter for added texture and taste.