Classic School Cake Recipe: A Nostalgic UK Treat

by ADMIN 49 views

That iconic traybake, served up in school dining halls across the UK, is a simple joy. This classic School Cake Recipe UK brings back memories of lunchtime treats and happy school days. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is perfect for sharing. — Aishah Sofey Erome: Rising Star

Why This School Cake Recipe Works

  • Nostalgia: Tastes just like the school cake you remember.
  • Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples.
  • Easy to Make: Perfect for beginner bakers.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 225g (8 oz) self-raising flour
  • 225g (8 oz) caster sugar
  • 225g (8 oz) baking margarine or softened butter
  • 4 large eggs
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Icing:

  • 175g (6 oz) icing sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp cold water
  • Sprinkles, for decoration

How to Make School Cake

  1. Get Started: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F, Gas Mark 4). Grease and line a rectangular baking tin (approximately 9x13 inches).
  2. Cream Together: In a large bowl, cream together the baking margarine or butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add Eggs: Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time. Add the vanilla extract, if using.
  4. Fold in Flour: Gently fold in the self-raising flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool: Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. Make the Icing: In a bowl, mix the icing sugar with cold water until you have a smooth, spreadable icing.
  8. Ice and Decorate: Spread the icing evenly over the cooled cake. Immediately sprinkle with your favorite sprinkles.
  9. Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect School Cake

  • Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake.
  • Use Softened Butter: Softened butter or baking margarine is crucial for a light and fluffy cake.
  • Cool Completely: Ensure the cake is completely cool before icing to prevent the icing from melting.
  • Get Creative with Sprinkles: Use different colors and shapes of sprinkles for a fun and festive look.

Variations

  • Lemon School Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a citrusy twist.
  • Chocolate School Cake: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate version.
  • Jam Filling: Spread a thin layer of jam over the cooled cake before icing.

This simple School Cake Recipe UK is more than just a cake; it's a trip down memory lane. Bake a batch today and share the nostalgia! — Natasha Hall: Biography, Career, And Impactful Work