Classic School Cake Recipe: A Nostalgic UK Treat

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That distinctly soft, sweet, and utterly comforting treat known as School Cake! This simple traybake, often topped with white icing and sprinkles, holds a special place in the hearts of many who grew up in the UK. If you're yearning for a taste of nostalgia, this classic School Cake recipe is just what you need. — Brad Garlinghouse Ties The Knot: Inside The Wedding

What is School Cake?

School Cake, also referred to as 'dinner lady cake' is a basic sponge cake baked in a large rectangular tin. It was a staple dessert on school lunch menus across the United Kingdom. Its popularity stemmed from its affordability, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing flavor. — Peter Andrew Baryshnikov: Life And Career

Why This Recipe Works

  • Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these in your pantry already.
  • Easy to Follow: This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers.
  • Nostalgic Flavor: Captures the authentic taste of classic school cake.
  • Customizable: Adapt the recipe with different extracts or toppings.

Ingredients You'll Need

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: to 180°C (350°F/ Gas Mark 4). Grease and line a rectangular baking tin (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. Beat in eggs: Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. If the mixture curdles, add a spoonful of flour.
  4. Sift dry ingredients: Sift together the self-raising flour and baking powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients in two or three additions, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Add milk: Add the milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the batter reaches a smooth, dropping consistency.
  6. Pour into tin: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and spread evenly.
  7. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool: Let the cake 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 together the icing sugar and water until you have a smooth, spreadable icing.
  10. Ice and decorate: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the icing evenly over the top. Immediately sprinkle with your favorite sprinkles before the icing sets.
  11. Slice and serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve.

Tips for the Perfect School Cake

  • Soft Butter: Ensure your butter is properly softened to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
  • Don't Overmix: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
  • Cool Completely: Make sure the cake is completely cool before icing to prevent the icing from melting.
  • Customize: Add a few drops of vanilla extract or lemon zest to the batter for extra flavor.

Variations

  • Lemon School Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the cake batter and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the icing.
  • Orange School Cake: Substitute orange zest and juice for lemon.
  • Chocolate Chips: Fold chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey twist.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your School Cake with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat. It's also perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or bake sales. — England Hockey: Latest Scores & Updates

A Taste of Childhood

This School Cake recipe offers a delightful journey back to simpler times. Its ease of preparation and comforting flavor make it a perfect treat for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a slice of nostalgia!