Classic School Cake Recipe: A Nostalgic UK Treat
That familiar tray-bake cake, often served with a generous layer of white icing and sprinkles, evokes fond memories for many who grew up in the UK. This classic School Cake recipe is easy to recreate at home, bringing a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen. — Kansas City Royals: News, Scores, & Highlights
What Makes School Cake Special?
School cake, also known as 'dinner lady cake' or 'sprinkle cake', is defined by its simple sponge base and a distinctive topping of icing and rainbow sprinkles. It’s a comforting treat that’s easy to make, making it perfect for baking with kids or for a simple afternoon treat. — Fresno State Vs. Nevada: Key Game Preview
Classic School Cake Recipe
Here’s how to bake your very own School Cake, reminiscent of those served in school cafeterias across the UK.
Ingredients:
- 225g (8oz) self-raising flour
- 225g (8oz) caster sugar
- 225g (8oz) butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Icing:
- 200g (7oz) icing sugar
- 3-4 tbsp water
- Rainbow sprinkles
Instructions:
- Get Started: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/Gas Mark 4). Grease and line a rectangular baking tin (approximately 9x13 inches).
- Cream Together: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs: Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well combined. Add the vanilla extract.
- Fold in Flour: Gently fold in the self-raising flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make 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 Sprinkle: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the icing evenly over the top. Immediately sprinkle generously with rainbow sprinkles.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy this nostalgic treat with a cup of tea!
Tips for the Perfect School Cake
- Soft Butter: Make sure your butter is properly softened for a smooth and even batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in a tough cake, so gently fold in the flour until just combined.
- Even Baking: Ensure the cake bakes evenly by spreading the batter uniformly in the tin.
- Icing Consistency: Adjust the amount of water in the icing to get the perfect spreadable consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more water; if it’s too thin, add a bit more icing sugar.
Variations
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cake batter for a zesty twist.
- Almond Extract: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Colored Icing: Use food coloring to create vibrant and fun colored icing.
Share Your Creations!
Baking this classic School Cake recipe is a delightful way to relive childhood memories. Feel free to share your creations online and tag us! Enjoy baking this simple, comforting treat. — Tyreek Hill Height: How Tall Is The NFL Star?