Classic School Cake Recipe: A Nostalgic UK Treat

by ADMIN 49 views
>

That classic traybake, also known as 'school cake' or 'sprinkle cake', that you probably ate at school. This simple cake is topped with white icing and sprinkled with, well, sprinkles! This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a bake sale or a treat for the kids.

What is School Cake?

School cake, or sprinkle cake, is a simple sponge cake that is baked in a tray and topped with icing and sprinkles. It is a popular cake in the UK, where it is often served in schools as a dessert.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The cake is also very versatile and can be adapted to your own taste. For example, you can add different flavorings to the sponge, such as lemon zest or vanilla extract.

Ingredients:

  • 225g (8oz) unsalted butter, softened
  • 225g (8oz) caster sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 225g (8oz) self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 2-3 tbsp milk

For the icing:

  • 200g (7oz) icing sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp water
  • Sprinkles, to decorate

Equipment

  • Baking tray
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/Gas Mark 4/350°F). Grease and line a baking tray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then gradually add the flour and baking powder.
  4. Add milk to the mixture.
  5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Leave to cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. For the icing, mix together the icing sugar and water until smooth. Spread over the cake and sprinkle with sprinkles.
  8. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips for the perfect School Cake

  • Make sure the butter is softened before you start mixing the ingredients together.
  • Don't over-bake the cake, or it will be dry.
  • If you want to add a flavoring to the sponge, add it after you have added the flour.
  • You can use any type of sprinkles you like to decorate the cake.
  • Make sure the cake is completely cool before you ice it.

Variations

  • Add lemon zest to the sponge for a zesty flavor.
  • Add vanilla extract to the sponge for a classic flavor.
  • Use different types of sprinkles to decorate the cake.
  • Add food coloring to the icing to make it colorful.
  • Add chocolate chips to the sponge for a chocolatey treat.

How to Store School Cake

School cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

FAQ

Can I freeze School Cake?

Yes, you can freeze school cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I make School Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make school cake ahead of time. The sponge can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The icing can be made up to 1 day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use a different type of flour. However, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid you add to the mixture.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can use a different type of sugar. However, the cake may not be as light and fluffy if you use a different type of sugar.

What kind of sprinkles should I use?

You can use any type of sprinkles you like to decorate the cake. However, traditional school cake is decorated with rainbow sprinkles.

Conclusion

This classic school cake recipe is easy to make and perfect for a bake sale or a treat for the kids. It is a simple sponge cake that is topped with icing and sprinkles. The cake is also very versatile and can be adapted to your own taste.