Classic School Cake Recipe: Easy & Delicious!

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Remember those nostalgic school days and the simple joy of a slice of School Cake? This classic traybake, with its light sponge and sweet icing, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This recipe brings back those cherished memories with a modern twist, ensuring it’s easy to make and utterly delicious. — Trader Joe's Bags: Reusable, Stylish & Eco-Friendly?

What Makes School Cake So Special?

School Cake, also known as 'dinner lady cake,' is characterized by its fluffy texture, simple vanilla flavor, and a distinctive layer of white icing dotted with sprinkles. It's a comforting treat that evokes a sense of nostalgia for many. — Stephen A. Smith: Career, Controversies & Impact

Why This Recipe Works

  • Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples.
  • Easy to Follow: Perfect for beginner bakers.
  • Quick to Make: Ready in under an hour.
  • Customizable: Adaptable to your taste preferences.

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 225g (8oz) Self-Raising Flour
  • 225g (8oz) Caster Sugar
  • 225g (8oz) Soft Butter or Margarine
  • 4 Large Eggs
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

For the Icing:

  • 250g (9oz) Icing Sugar
  • 3-4 tbsp Water
  • Sprinkles for decoration

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Get Started: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C Fan/ Gas Mark 4). Grease and line a rectangular baking tray (approximately 9x13 inches).
  2. Cream Together: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is a crucial step for a light cake.
  3. Add Eggs: Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract.
  4. Fold in Flour: Gently fold in the self-raising flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
  5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the tray for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. Make Icing: In a bowl, mix the icing sugar with water until you have a smooth, spreadable icing. Add more water, a teaspoon at a time, if needed.
  8. Ice and Decorate: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the icing evenly over the top. Immediately sprinkle with your favorite sprinkles.
  9. Set and Serve: Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect School Cake

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for best results.
  • Don't Overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry cake. Check for doneness with a skewer.
  • Cool Completely: Make sure the cake is completely cool before icing to prevent the icing from melting.
  • Get Creative with Sprinkles: Use different colors and shapes of sprinkles to add a fun touch.

Variations to Try

  • Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the cake batter for a citrusy twist.
  • Almond Extract: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Chips: Fold chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey treat.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy a slice of School Cake with a cup of tea or coffee.
  • Pack it in lunchboxes for a nostalgic treat.
  • Serve it at parties or gatherings for a crowd-pleasing dessert.

This School Cake recipe is a delightful way to relive those carefree school days. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it's the perfect treat for any occasion. Bake a batch today and share the joy! — Week 4 Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: CBS Fantasy Football Guide