Classic School Cake Recipe: A Nostalgic UK Treat

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Dive into a delightful slice of nostalgia with the classic School Cake, a beloved treat in the UK. This simple yet scrumptious cake brings back memories of school dinners and happy childhood moments. Perfect for a comforting dessert or a fun baking project, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a moist, flavorful cake topped with icing and sprinkles.

What is School Cake?

School Cake, also known as 'dinner lady cake,' is a traditional British cake served in schools across the UK. Characterized by its light sponge, white icing, and colorful sprinkles, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The cake's simplicity and comforting taste make it a timeless favorite.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before you start baking, gather these essential ingredients:

  • 225g (8oz) self-raising flour
  • 225g (8oz) caster sugar
  • 225g (8oz) butter or margarine, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • For the Icing:
    • 200g (7oz) icing sugar
    • 3-4 tbsp water
    • Sprinkles for decoration

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own School Cake:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/Gas Mark 4) and grease and line a rectangular baking tin.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add Eggs: Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well combined before adding the next. If the mixture curdles, add a spoonful of flour.
  4. Fold in Flour: Gently fold in the self-raising flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Add Milk: Stir in the milk to create a smooth batter.
  6. Pour into Tin: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and spread evenly.
  7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Make the Icing: In a bowl, mix the icing sugar with water until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  10. Ice and Decorate: Spread the icing evenly over the cooled cake and immediately sprinkle with your favorite sprinkles.
  11. Slice and Serve: Once the icing has set, slice the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy this classic School Cake with a cup of tea or as a nostalgic treat!

Tips for the Perfect School Cake

  • Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is properly softened to achieve a light and fluffy cake.
  • Don't Overmix: Overmixing can result in a tough cake, so fold the flour gently.
  • Even Baking: Use a reliable oven thermometer to ensure your oven temperature is accurate for even baking.
  • Creative Sprinkles: Get creative with your sprinkles! Use different colors and shapes to make your cake visually appealing.

Variations to Try

  • Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
  • Almond Extract: A few drops of almond extract can enhance the flavor.
  • Jam Filling: Spread a thin layer of jam over the cake before icing for added sweetness.

Why This Recipe Works

This School Cake recipe is cherished for its simplicity and foolproof method. Using self-raising flour ensures a light and airy texture, while the balance of ingredients guarantees a moist and flavorful cake. The easy icing and sprinkle topping add the perfect finishing touch, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Enjoy Baking!

Baking this classic School Cake is a wonderful way to relive childhood memories and create new ones. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a slice of comforting nostalgia. Happy baking!