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 servings
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

I love the simplicity of baking cakes with minimal ingredients, and this recipe is a perfect example of that joy. Whether I'm looking to whip up a quick dessert after a long day or impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, these few-ingredient cakes never disappoint. They are not only easy to make but also surprisingly delicious! With just a handful of staples, you can create a moist, flavorful cake that feels indulgent yet effortless.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:19:13.832Z

When I first discovered that I could make a delightful cake using just a few basic ingredients, I was thrilled. I remember experimenting with eggs, flour, and sugar, and the results were astonishingly good. The key is to properly aerate the eggs to create a light texture. By whisking them until frothy, you achieve a fluffy cake that holds up well without heavy additives.

One afternoon, while preparing for a small gathering, I decided to try adding a dash of vanilla extract for an extra kick. It transformed a simple cake into a crowd-pleaser! If you have some pantry staples on hand, you can create a quick dessert that everyone will rave about. Trust me, this method is a game-changer!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Incredibly simple and quick to prepare
Uses common pantry staples with no fuss
Produces a moist and delicious cake every time

The Role of Eggs and Sugar

The use of two large eggs in this cake recipe is crucial, as they serve multiple purposes. Eggs provide moisture and fat, contributing to a tender crumb, and they help bind the ingredients together. When whisking the eggs with sugar, aim for a light and fluffy texture; this aeration is essential for the cake to rise properly while baking. If you're concerned about cholesterol or have dietary restrictions, you can try using egg substitutes such as flax eggs or applesauce in a 1:1 ratio, but be aware that this might slightly alter the cake's texture.

Granulated sugar not only sweetens the cake but also plays a vital role in the overall structure. It helps to create volume when creamed with eggs, contributing to the final cake's lightness. For those looking to reduce sugar intake, consider using a sugar substitute specifically designed for baking; however, keep in mind that these alternatives can sometimes lead to denser cakes or affect browning during baking.

Key Techniques for Baking Success

Mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, as outlined in the steps, is key to achieving a well-structured cake. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so combine them just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. You want to see a few small lumps but overall a uniform batter. This technique keeps the gluten development in check, which is particularly beneficial for this few-ingredient cake and helps maintain its moistness.

When it comes to baking, timing is everything. Start checking the cake at around 28 minutes, as oven temperatures can vary. Insert a toothpick or a cake tester into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly but the center is not yet done, you can lightly cover the cake with foil to prevent overbrowning while it continues to bake.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This simple cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. To serve, simply thaw it at room temperature for a few hours. This cake is versatile, and you can enjoy it plain or dress it up with a simple glaze or fresh fruit.

For variations, consider adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit; just make sure not to overload the batter, as too many additions can affect the cake's structure. Another option is to infuse the batter with citrus zest for a refreshing twist. Serve your cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert that feels special, despite its minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started!

Cake Ingredients

2 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

With these ingredients ready, you're just a few steps away from enjoying a delicious cake!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps for a delightful cake!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and mix well.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.

Bake the Cake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your delicious cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to throw in some chocolate chips or nuts into the batter. A frosting made from cream cheese and a hint of lemon zest is a wonderful pairing too.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

One important tip when integrating melted butter into the batter is to ensure it's slightly cooled before adding to the egg and sugar mixture. Adding hot butter can cook the eggs prematurely, which will affect the overall texture of your cake. If you've melted the butter ahead of time, let it sit for a few minutes until it's warm but not hot to the touch.

If you find that your cake sinks in the middle after baking, it is often due to underbaking or overmixing. To avoid this issue, always check for doneness with a toothpick, and also consider the size of your baking pan; using a smaller pan can lead to longer baking times.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those who want to make this cake gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend. Always check that your blend contains xanthan gum to mimic the binding properties of gluten. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly, so be prepared for a subtle change in the final product.

If you need a dairy-free option, vegan margarine can replace unsalted butter in the recipe. Additionally, you can replace eggs with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water will replace one egg). This maintains the moisture content of the cake without compromising the flavor.

Serving Variations

To elevate the simplicity of this cake, consider serving it with a homemade fruit compote. Just simmer your choice of berries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice until they break down into a sauce. This adds a lovely tartness to balance the sweetness of the cake, creating a delightful combination that feels gourmet.

For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. Reducing the flour by an equal amount to keep the ratios consistent is essential here. Top with a simple chocolate ganache by melting chocolate with cream for a luxurious finish that enhances the cake while keeping the ingredient list short and straightforward.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can use alternatives like coconut oil for butter or honey for sugar, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste and texture.

→ How can I store the leftover cake?

Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance, just ensure it’s stored properly to maintain freshness.

→ What’s the best way to serve this cake?

This cake is lovely on its own or can be paired with a simple frosting, fresh berries, or whipped cream for an extra treat!