The Ultimate School Cake Recipe – A Must-Have for Every Home!

There’s something magical about a slice of School Cake. With its soft, fluffy vanilla sponge, sweet icing, and colorful sprinkles, it brings back memories of old-school dinners. This retro traybake was a staple in British schools from the 1960s to the 1980s, and it’s still loved today.

Ready to bake some nostalgia? Let’s dive into the history of this beloved dessert!

What is School Cake?

The Origins of School Cake

School Cake is a simple vanilla sponge topped with white icing and plenty of sprinkles. It was served in British school cafeterias as an easy, budget-friendly dessert. While it wasn’t fancy, it was a comforting, delicious treat that students loved.

“This close-up image captures the essence of a traditional School Cake Recipe, served just like in the old school days.”

“There’s something about this cake that takes people straight back to their childhood. It’s simple, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying!”

This old-school sponge cake was baked in large metal trays and cut into squares, making it easy to serve to a crowd. It was often enjoyed with pink custard, a classic school pudding accompaniment.

Why It’s a Beloved Classic

Even though times have changed, School Cake remains a favorite for many. Why?

• It’s easy to make – Simple ingredients, no fancy techniques.
• It’s budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples like flour, sugar, and eggs.
• It’s pure nostalgia – A bite of this cake takes people back to their school days.
• It’s delicious – A soft sponge with sweet icing what’s not to love?

School Cake vs. Tottenham Cake

Many confuse School Cake with Tottenham Cake. While both are sponge cakes with icing, there are key differences:

While they’re similar, School Cake is the one that truly brings back those nostalgic school memories.

Ingredients Needed for School Cake

Before you start baking, it’s important to gather the right ingredients. The School Cake Recipe uses simple pantry staples, making it an easy dessert to whip up anytime.

The Five Main Ingredients Explained

To make the perfect old-school sponge cake, you only need a few essential ingredients:

“The secret to a fluffy sponge is the right balance of eggs, flour, and sugar. Weighing your ingredients ensures perfect results every time!”

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

Want to put your own twist on the classic recipe? Try these variations:

• Lemon zest – Adds a fresh, citrusy kick.
• Almond extract – Gives a nutty depth of flavor.
• Jam layer – Spread raspberry or strawberry jam under the icing for a fruity surprise.

Choosing Between Butter and Margarine

Traditional School Cake was made with margarine because it was more affordable for schools. However, you can use butter if you prefer a richer taste. Here’s how they compare:

If you want the most authentic School Cake Recipe, margarine is the way to go!

Looking for more cake ideas? You might also enjoy these Bundt Cake with Egg Whites for a lighter treat.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making School Cake

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s get baking! Follow this step-by-step guide for a perfect, nostalgic treat.

“This image series visually guides you through the School Cake Recipe, from mixing the batter to icing and decorating.”

Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F.
2. Line a baking tin (about 13″ x 9″) with parchment paper.
3. Cream the margarine and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. This takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric whisk.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract for that classic sweet aroma.
6. Sift in the self-raising flour and gently fold it into the mixture using a spatula.

“Be careful not to overmix! A gentle folding motion keeps the sponge light and airy.”

Baking the Perfect Sponge

1. Pour the batter into the lined baking tin, smoothing the top with a spoon.
2. Tap the tin on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Simple Icing

1. Sift the icing sugar into a bowl.
2. Add the milk (or water) gradually, stirring until smooth.
3. Pour the icing over the cooled cake, using a palette knife to spread it evenly.

“For the best results, make the icing slightly thick so it sets beautifully on top!”

Adding the Classic Sprinkles

• While the icing is still wet, sprinkle hundreds and thousands generously on top.
• Let the icing set for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles.

For another delicious cake recipe with a unique twist, check out this Chocolate Ricotta Cake Guide, perfect for chocolate lovers!

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect School Cake

Want to make your School Cake Recipe even better? These expert tips will help you get a soft, fluffy sponge and a perfectly set icing every time!

How to Make the Cake Extra Fluffy

A light and airy sponge is the key to a perfect School Cake. Here’s how to achieve it:

• Use room temperature ingredients – Cold butter, eggs, or milk can cause the batter to be dense.
• Beat the butter and sugar well – This creates tiny air pockets that expand while baking.
• Fold the flour gently – Overmixing can knock out the air, making the cake heavy.
• Weigh your eggs – Aim for around 300g in their shells to keep the sponge balanced.

“For an ultra-light sponge, sift the flour twice before adding it to the batter!”

The Best Way to Apply Icing

Getting the icing just right is crucial for that classic old-school sponge cake look. Follow these simple steps:

1. Let the cake cool completely – If it’s warm, the icing will melt and slide off.
2. Make the icing thick but spreadable – It should be smooth, not runny.
3. Use a palette knife or back of a spoon to spread the icing evenly.
4. Sprinkle generously while the icing is still wet, so they stick well.

Adjusting the Recipe for Different Cake Tins

Don’t have a 13″ x 9″ baking tin? No problem! You can still make this delicious cake by adjusting the ingredients slightly:

If you’re looking for more baked goods that are easy yet delicious, check out these Cake Mix Cinnamon Rolls for a quick and tasty treat.

School Cake Variations and Customizations

Want to put your own spin on the classic School Cake Recipe? Here are some fun and delicious variations to try!

“This image presents three different takes on the School Cake Recipe, perfect for customizing based on your taste.”

Chocolate School Cake

Love chocolate? Swap out some ingredients to create a chocolate version of this classic cake:

• Replace 50g of flour with 50g of cocoa powder.
• Use chocolate icing instead of white icing.
• Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra indulgence.

“Chocolate lovers will adore this rich, fudgy twist on the original School Cake!”

Jam and Coconut School Cake

This version adds a sweet, fruity layer to the traditional sponge:

• Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam before adding the icing.
• Sprinkle desiccated coconut on top instead of sprinkles.
• Serve with a side of custard for the ultimate school dinner throwback.

Serving with Traditional Pink Custard

Many people remember School Cake being served with pink custard. Here’s how to make it at home:

Pink Custard Recipe

1. Heat the milk in a pan over low heat.
2. In a separate bowl, mix cornflour, sugar, and a little cold milk to make a paste.
3. Stir the paste into the warm milk and heat until thickened.
4. Add vanilla extract and pink food coloring, stirring well.

“Serve a slice of School Cake with warm pink custard for the ultimate nostalgic dessert!”

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even though School Cake Recipe is simple, small mistakes can affect the texture and taste. Let’s look at some common baking problems and how to fix them!

Preventing a Dry Sponge

A dry sponge can ruin the soft, fluffy texture of your cake. Here’s how to keep it moist:

• Don’t overbake – Check the cake after 30 minutes and remove it once a toothpick comes out clean.
• Use the right amount of eggs and milk – They add moisture and help the cake stay soft.
• Store properly – Keep the cake in an airtight container to stop it from drying out.

“A well-baked sponge should spring back when lightly pressed – if it’s hard, it’s overbaked!”

Why Your Cake Might Not Rise

Nothing is more disappointing than a flat cake! Here’s how to get a perfect rise:

• Check your baking powder – Expired baking powder won’t work, so always use fresh ingredients.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Stir gently to keep the air inside, which helps the cake rise.
• Preheat the oven – Baking at the right temperature is key to a good sponge.

Getting the Right Icing Consistency

The icing should be smooth and spread easily without running off. To get the perfect consistency:

• If it’s too thick – Add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time.
• If it’s too runny – Stir in more icing sugar until it thickens.
• Apply while the cake is cool – This helps the icing set properly without melting.

“For a neat finish, use a palette knife to spread the icing evenly before adding sprinkles!”

Storing and Serving School Cake

Now that you’ve made your School Cake Recipe, let’s talk about the best ways to store and serve it.

How to Keep It Fresh for Days

To keep your cake soft and delicious for longer, follow these storage tips:

• At room temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
• In the fridge – If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the cake in a sealed container for up to a week.
• In the freezer – Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

“To enjoy frozen cake, let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour before eating!”

The Best Way to Serve School Cake

School Cake is great on its own, but here are some fun serving ideas:

• With warm custard – A classic school dinner pairing!
• With fresh berries – Adds a fruity contrast to the sweet cake.
• With a cup of tea or milk – Perfect for a cozy snack.

Can You Freeze School Cake?

Yes! Freezing is a great way to save leftovers. To freeze properly:

1. Slice the cake into squares.
2. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap.
3. Place wrapped slices in an airtight container or freezer bag.

When you’re ready to eat, just defrost at room temperature for about an hour, and it’s good as new!

For another warm and comforting dessert idea, you might like this Pineapple Casserole Recipe a sweet and savory combination you have to try!

FAQs About School Cake Recipe

You’ve learned how to make School Cake, but you might still have some questions. Here are answers to the most common ones!

What is the most popular cake for kids?

Kids love cakes that are soft, sweet, and fun! Some of the most popular cakes include:

• School Cake – A simple vanilla sponge with icing and sprinkles.
• Chocolate Cake – Rich, fudgy, and always a hit!
• Birthday Cake – Often decorated with colorful frosting and candles.

The School Cake Recipe remains a favorite because it’s easy to make and reminds people of childhood memories.

Do you put milk in old school cake?

Yes! Many traditional recipes use a little milk in the sponge and icing. Milk helps make the cake:

• Softer and fluffier.
• Easier to mix.
• More moist and delicious.

If you don’t have milk, you can use water, but milk gives the best texture.

What are the five main ingredients in cake?

Most simple cakes, including School Cake Recipe, need just five key ingredients:

1. Flour – The base that gives structure.
2. Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with texture.
3. Eggs – Binds everything together and makes the cake fluffy.
4. Butter or Margarine – Adds richness and moisture.
5. Baking Powder (if using plain flour) – Helps the cake rise.

These ingredients work together to create a light, tasty sponge.

What is the difference between Tottenham Cake and School Cake?

Both cakes are similar, but they have key differences:

Tottenham Cake has a slight fruity flavor, while School Cake Recipe is more of a classic vanilla sponge with a sweet icing.

The Ultimate School Cake Recipe

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• Author: Chef Clara
• Total Time: 2 minute
• Yield: 12-15 slices

Print Recipe

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Description

The ultimate school cake is a soft, buttery vanilla sponge topped with sweet icing and sprinkles, bringing back nostalgic school lunch memories.

 

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Ingredients

**For the Sponge Cake:**  

– 200g unsalted butter, softened  

– 200g caster sugar  

– 4 eggs  

– 200g self-raising flour  

– 1 tsp vanilla extract  

– 2 tbsp milk  

**For the Icing:**  

– 250g icing sugar  

– 3-4 tbsp water  

– 1 tsp vanilla extract  

– Sprinkles (for topping)  

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease and line a baking tray (about 9×13 inches).  

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.  

3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.  

4. Add vanilla extract and mix.  

5. Sift in the self-raising flour and fold gently into the mixture.  

6. Add milk and stir until smooth.  

7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread evenly.  

8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.  

9. Allow the cake to cool completely before icing.  

10. For the icing, mix icing sugar, vanilla extract, and water until smooth and spreadable.  

11. Pour icing over the cooled cake and spread evenly.  

12. Sprinkle generously with colorful sprinkles.  

13. Let the icing set before slicing and serving.  

Notes

– Use whole milk for a richer cake.  

– Let the cake cool fully before icing to prevent melting.  

– Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.  

– Serve with custard for the classic school dinner experience.  

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: school cake, traybake, vanilla sponge, nostalgic cake, easy bake

Final Thoughts on School Cake Recipe

The School Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert, it’s a nostalgic treat that brings back childhood memories. Its soft vanilla sponge, smooth icing, and colorful sprinkles make it a classic that never goes out of style.

Why You Should Try It

If you haven’t made School Cake before, now is the perfect time! Here’s why you’ll love it:
Easy to make – Simple ingredients, simple steps.
Great for sharing – Perfect for school events, birthdays, or family gatherings.
Customizable – Add jam, coconut, or chocolate for your own twist.

If you love classic flavors but want something a little different, why not try a refreshing Hailey Bieber Smoothie Recipe alongside your cake for a unique pairing?

Final Baking Tips

• Weigh your ingredients for the best texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter gentle folding makes a fluffy sponge.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

“Nothing beats the joy of biting into a piece of soft, sweet School Cake. Whether you make it for nostalgia or to try something new, it’s a recipe worth keeping!”

Happy baking!