ADVERTISEMENT
The Classic Simple 3-Ingredient Cake Recipe
This is the most popular and foolproof version.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk
That’s it. No eggs, no butter, no oil.
Why These Ingredients Work
Self-Rising Flour
Self-rising flour already contains:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
This means you don’t need to add a leavening agent—the cake rises on its own.
Sugar
Sugar provides:
- Sweetness
- Moisture retention
- Tender crumb
Milk
Milk adds:
- Moisture
- Structure
- Mild richness
Together, these three ingredients create a balanced cake with surprising softness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8-inch round or square baking pan.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, add:
- Self-rising flour
- Sugar
- Milk
Whisk or stir until smooth. Avoid overmixing—stop once the batter is combined.
Step 3: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until:
- The top is lightly golden
- A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Enjoy as-is or add toppings of your choice.
What Does This Cake Taste Like?
The flavor is:
- Lightly sweet
- Soft and tender
- Neutral enough to pair with anything
It’s similar to a simple sponge or tea cake—perfect as a base for toppings or fillings.
Easy Flavor Variations (Still Simple!)
Once you master the base recipe, you can experiment without complicating things.
Vanilla Cake
Add:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Cake
Replace:
- ¼ cup flour with cocoa powder
Add: - 2 tablespoons extra sugar
Lemon Cake
Add:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cinnamon Sugar Cake
Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
ADVERTISEMENT