Classic School Cake Recipe: A Taste Of Nostalgia

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Are you craving a slice of nostalgia? Look no further than the classic School Cake, a beloved treat from UK school days! This simple yet delicious cake is known for its light sponge, topped with white icing and colorful sprinkles. Perfect for a comforting dessert or a fun baking project, this recipe brings back fond memories with every bite.

What is School Cake?

School Cake, also known as Iced Traybake or Sprinkle Cake, is a traditional British cake often served in schools. Its defining features are a fluffy, vanilla-flavored sponge, a layer of plain white icing, and a generous scattering of rainbow sprinkles. The cake is usually baked in a large tray and cut into squares, making it ideal for serving a crowd.

Why This Recipe Works

This School Cake recipe captures the authentic taste and texture of the original. The key to its success lies in a few simple techniques: — Connections Hint: October 5 - Need Some Help?

  • Creaming Method: Properly creaming the butter and sugar creates a light and airy base for the sponge.
  • Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a tough cake.
  • Perfect Icing: A smooth, glossy icing is essential for that classic School Cake look.

Ingredients You'll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bake your own School Cake:

  • 225g (8 oz) softened butter
  • 225g (8 oz) caster sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 225g (8 oz) self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Icing:

  • 250g (9 oz) icing sugar
  • 3-4 tbsp water
  • Rainbow sprinkles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake your perfect School Cake:

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F, Gas Mark 4). Grease and line a rectangular baking tray (approximately 9x13 inches).
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large 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 fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract.
  4. Fold in Flour: Gently fold in the self-raising flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tray 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 tray 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 water until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  8. Ice and Decorate: Spread the icing evenly over the cooled cake. Immediately sprinkle generously with rainbow sprinkles before the icing sets.
  9. Slice and Serve: Once the icing is set, slice the cake into squares and serve.

Tips for the Best School Cake

  • Use Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is properly softened for easy creaming.
  • Don't Overmix: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
  • Even Baking: Rotate the tray halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
  • Fresh Sprinkles: Use fresh, vibrant sprinkles for the best visual appeal.

Variations to Try

  • Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
  • Almond Extract: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
  • Colored Icing: Use food coloring to create colorful icing.

Serving Suggestions

School Cake is perfect on its own with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s also a great addition to lunchboxes or as a sweet treat for parties and gatherings. Recreate a slice of childhood and enjoy the simple pleasures of this classic bake! — Marvin Agustin: Who Is His Partner?

Enjoy Your School Cake!

Baking this classic School Cake recipe is a delightful way to relive cherished memories and create new ones. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a taste of nostalgia. Happy baking! — Slow Horses: Unpacking The Haunting Theme Song