Classic School Cake Recipe

My Easy School Cake recipe is comforting and such a classic. It’s a simple vanilla cake topped with sweet icing and a scattering of some colourful sprinkles. Great to bake with the family too!

Although loved by all (especially kids!) this cake is also a nostalgic one for so many people I’ve baked it for. It brings back memories of childhood – old school lunches, classroom celebrations and bake sales.

The best thing about it? It’s easy to make with some basic baking ingredients and a simple recipe.

school cake recipe

Whether you’re baking it for your kids, sharing it with family and friends, or just wanted something sweet then this will be the perfect recipe. Pack into school lunch boxes, share at a party, and enjoy every slice.

Keep reading to find out what you need to make it and the recipe steps too!

What You Will Need & Recipe Card

There are a few key ingredients you need to make this cake.

For the sponge:

  • 200g of softened unsalted butter

  • 200g caster sugar

  • 4 medium-sized eggs

  • 200g self-raising flour

  • 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract

  • 2 tablespoons of milk

For the decoration:

  • 250g of icing sugar

  • 2–3 tablespoons of water (added gradually)

  • Rainbow sprinkles

Tip: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best results.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

  • Correct-sized rectangular baking tray

  • Mixing bowl

  • Kitchen scales

  • Whisk (electric or hand)

  • Mixing spoon

You can follow the recipe here or download the recipe card image for convenience.

To download:

  1. Click on the recipe card image — a PDF will open in a new tab.

  2. To save it, click the download icon or right-click the image and select “Save as.”

  3. Keep it on your device or print it out for easy access while baking!

easay school cake recipe card

Steps to Make This Easy School Cake

This recipe is simple enough for any level of baker — perfect for kids or adults!

  1. Prepare Ingredients & Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (or 180°C/fan 160°C). Grease and line your rectangular baking tray with parchment paper.

  2. Cream Butter & Sugar:
    Whisk together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

  3. Add Eggs:
    Beat in one egg at a time, combining well before adding the next.

  4. Add Vanilla Extract:
    Stir it in — it smells delicious!

  5. Fold in Flour:
    Use a spoon to gently fold in the self-raising flour.

  6. Add Milk:
    Add a little milk if needed to loosen the batter. It should drop off a spoon but not be runny.

  7. Pour Batter:
    Transfer the batter into the prepared tray and level it out.

  8. Bake:
    Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and springy. Use a toothpick — it should come out clean when done.

  9. Cool Completely:
    Let the cake cool completely before icing.

  10. Prepare Icing:
    Mix icing sugar and water gradually to create a smooth, pourable icing.

  11. Ice the Cake & Decorate:
    Spread the icing over the cake and sprinkle generously with rainbow sprinkles.

  12. Set & Serve:
    Allow icing to set before slicing and serving!

Note: Although it’s tempting to eat it warm, waiting until the icing is set takes it to a new level!

Tasty Recipes for Kids & Families

Looking for a sweet treat to enjoy after a crafting session or printable game marathon? We’ve got you covered! At Mandy’s Printables, it’s not just about fun on paper — it’s about creating happy memories together, and that includes time in the kitchen.

🍫 Try Our Easy Chocolate Brownie Recipe
Soft, fudgy, and super simple to make — perfect for little hands to help and big smiles all around!

🍪 Bake Up a Batch of Classic Shortbread Biscuits
These buttery bites are a family favourite and a great way to introduce kids to baking.

👉 Head to our recipes section to check them out and add a little extra fun (and yum!) to your day.

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