Cake Recipes With Few Ingredients

Name: Cake Recipes With Few Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients: 1 cup of all-purpose flour; 1 cup of granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Dessert Bliss

I love experimenting with cake recipes that require minimal ingredients, and this collection has truly become my go-to. Each cake is surprisingly delightful, allowing the few elements to shine without overwhelming complexity. Whether it's a quick treat for a weekend gathering or a simple dessert after dinner, these recipes always deliver the perfect balance of flavor and texture. I enjoy how easily they come together, making baking accessible even on the busiest days.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:19:13.107Z

Baking has always been a therapeutic process for me, and when I discovered cake recipes with few ingredients, it changed everything. I remember my first attempt at a simple cake, using just flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. The result was a moist and fluffy delight that proved less really can be more in the kitchen.

What I love most is how these recipes allow for creativity without the need for a long shopping list. From adding seasonal fruits to drizzling with chocolate ganache, each cake is unique and adaptable. I've learned that by focusing on quality ingredients in simplicity, you can create something remarkably delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Simple and easy to follow, perfect for novice bakers
Minimal ingredients lead to fresh, standout flavors
Quick to prepare and bake, ideal for weeknight cravings

Embracing Minimalism in Baking

Baking with fewer ingredients allows each element to shine. In this basic cake recipe, the balance of sugar and butter provides natural sweetness, while the eggs contribute moisture and structure. The choice of all-purpose flour ensures the cake is light yet holds together well. It's fascinating how these simple components transform into a delightful dessert—a testament to the beauty of minimalistic baking.

When experimenting with this recipe, consider the impact of each ingredient. For instance, using high-quality vanilla extract can elevate the flavor profile significantly. I recommend opting for real vanilla extract over imitation to enhance the cake’s aroma and taste. Each bite should encapsulate a warm, inviting flavor that showcases the classic notes of a simple cake.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

One useful tip for achieving a light, airy cake is to ensure your butter is not too hot when mixed with the eggs and sugar. If the butter is too warm, it can cook the eggs, resulting in a dense texture. Instead, let the melted butter cool slightly before incorporating it into your mixture—this will maintain the cake's fluffiness.

Monitoring baking time closely is crucial; ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center, and it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If you find the top of your cake browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent overcooking while the inside finishes baking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful cake experience:

Basic Cake Ingredients

1 cup of all-purpose flour
1 cup of granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
Pinch of salt

Add your favorite toppings or frostings if desired!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps for baking your cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until fluffy. Stir in melted butter and vanilla.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy plain or with your favorite toppings.

Once cooled, feel free to enhance with your favorite frostings!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon zest or a dash of cinnamon to the batter.

Ingredient Substitutions

This cake recipe is versatile, making it easy to modify based on what you have at home. For a dairy-free option, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using a natural sweetener like honey, adjusting the liquid content slightly to compensate for the added moisture.

Eggs are a common allergy, but you can replace them with flax eggs to suit a vegan diet. Simply mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water, allowing it to sit for about five minutes until it becomes gelatinous. This substitute works well for binding and adding moisture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

To preserve the freshness of your cake, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. If stored at room temperature, it will keep well for about three days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped in plastic and placed in a freezer-safe bag—these can last up to three months.

When it comes to serving, this cake is delightful as is, but there are several yummy options to elevate it. A dusting of powdered sugar gives it a classic look, while fresh berries and whipped cream add a fresh touch. Alternatively, you can drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute butter with oil?

Yes, you can use an equal amount of vegetable or coconut oil for a slightly different texture.

→ How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it includes a binding element, like xanthan gum.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can add extracts like almond or citrus zest to give your cake a distinct flavor.

→ How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!