Dive into the simplicity of baking with this easy and delightful cake recipe that can be whipped up in just a couple of minutes! Perfect for busy days or when you need a quick dessert, this cake promises to be a go-to favorite. It’s versatile, allowing for various customizations, and serves as a great base for numerous toppings and mix-ins.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 90g (about 1/2 cup) granulated sugar
- 70ml (1/3 cup) vegetable oil
- 100ml (a little less than 1/2 cup) milk
- 160g (1 1/3 cups) all-purpose flour
- 10g (2 tsp) baking powder
- A pinch of vanillin (or 1/2 tsp vanilla extract)
Equipment
- 20cm (8-inch) baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined and slightly pale in color.
- Gradually incorporate the oil and milk, whisking continuously to maintain a smooth consistency.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and vanillin (or vanilla extract) into the wet mixture.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure the cake remains light and fluffy.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 20cm baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the center of the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the dish for a few minutes.
- Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve as is, or enhance with a dusting of powdered sugar or your favorite frosting.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast Treat: Start your day with a slice of this cake alongside your morning coffee or tea. It’s light enough for breakfast yet satisfyingly sweet.
- Dessert Option: Serve this cake as a dessert, perfect after a meal or as a sweet snack during the day. Enhance its flavor with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Afternoon Tea: Pair this cake with a cup of herbal tea for a delightful afternoon treat. The simplicity of the cake complements a range of teas, from chamomile to Earl Grey.
- Customizable Toppings: Top the cake with fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches to add natural sweetness and a burst of color. A dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone can also elevate its richness.
- Kids’ Snack: Cut the cake into small squares to serve as a manageable, mess-free snack for children. Add a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips or rainbow sprinkles to make it more appealing to kids.
Storage
- Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Additional Tips
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon to give a unique twist to the basic recipe.
- Baking Evenly: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the cake halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
- Checking Doneness: The cake is done when it’s golden brown on top and the toothpick comes out clean. Be careful not to open the oven too often as it can cause the cake to fall.
Enjoy this simple yet delicious cake, perfect for any occasion or spontaneous baking urge. Its ease and versatility make it a fantastic recipe for both novice and experienced bakers.
