This Soft Easy Cake is a quick and delightful treat that comes together in just five minutes! With a refreshing hint of lemon and a touch of sweetness from strawberry jam and coconut, this cake is perfect for when you need a fast, delicious dessert. Simple yet satisfying, it’s a lovely cake to enjoy with family, friends, or for a cozy moment by yourself.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is great for several reasons. The lemon zest and juice bring a bright, fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of strawberry jam. The sunflower oil and milk keep the cake moist and tender, while eggs provide a light, airy texture. A quick mix of these ingredients and just a short bake time results in a soft, flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
- 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1 lemon (zest and juice): Zest brings citrus aroma, and the juice adds a refreshing tang.
- 3 eggs: Provides structure and fluffiness to the cake.
- 1 tea glass sunflower oil: A neutral oil to keep the cake moist.
- Half a cup lemon juice: Enhances the lemon flavor and keeps the cake light.
- 1 tea glass milk: Adds moisture and a creamy texture.
- 2.5 cups flour: Gives the cake its structure.
- 1 pack baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- Strawberry jam: Adds a layer of sweetness and fruity flavor.
- Coconut flakes: For garnish; adds a hint of texture and a sweet, nutty finish.
How to Make a Soft Easy Cake Recipe in 5 Minutes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a cake mold thoroughly with solid butter or margarine to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Sugar, Lemon, and Eggs
- In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup of sugar and the zest of 1 lemon.
- Add 3 eggs and beat the mixture until it becomes light, foamy, and slightly thick. This step helps incorporate air into the batter, making the cake fluffy.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
- Pour in 1 tea glass of sunflower oil, half a cup of lemon juice, and 1 tea glass of milk. Mix everything until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
- Sift 2.5 cups of flour and 1 pack of baking powder into the bowl. Stir gently to avoid overmixing, as this can result in a denser cake.
Step 5: Pour and Add Jam
- Pour the cake batter into your prepared cake mold, spreading it evenly.
- Add a small amount of strawberry jam on top of the batter and gently swirl it into the batter with a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect.
Step 6: Bake
- Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool, Decorate, and Serve
- Let the cake cool slightly before removing it from the pan.
- Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam on top, then sprinkle with coconut flakes for a beautiful finish.
- Slice and enjoy!
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and milk helps the ingredients blend better, resulting in a smoother batter.
- Avoid Overmixing: When adding flour, mix only until combined to keep the cake light and airy.
- Jam Swirls: Swirling a bit of jam on top adds an extra fruity touch; be careful not to overdo it, as too much can make the batter too heavy.
- Testing for Doneness: Start checking the cake at 25 minutes. The top should be golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Serving Suggestions
- With Fresh Strawberries: Serve each slice with fresh strawberries on the side to enhance the fruity flavor.
- A Dollop of Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast.
- Paired with Tea or Coffee: This cake is light and pairs well with afternoon tea or coffee for a perfect snack.
Time & Yield
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 8-10 slices, depending on cut size.
Final Thoughts
This Soft Easy Cake is a versatile and easy recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. Its light lemony flavor, combined with the sweetness of strawberry jam and coconut, makes it a delicious and crowd-pleasing dessert. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or slightly chilled—either way, it’s a treat that’s both comforting and delightfully simple.