A quick and delicious cake that you can prepare in just 15 minutes is perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet but don’t have the patience to spend hours baking. This recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, and the result is a soft, moist cake with rich flavor. Whether it’s for a sudden guest visit, a quick dessert after dinner, or a treat for yourself, this cake will never disappoint. The beauty of this recipe is that it requires minimal effort and no special equipment—just a bowl, a whisk, and a microwave or oven. You can even customize it with your favorite flavors and toppings. Let’s dive into the details and get started.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (optional for chocolate version)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons warm water
- Optional: chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for extra texture
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder if using, baking powder, and salt. This helps to remove any lumps and ensures even mixing of dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and warm water until smooth and well combined.
- Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a whisk or spatula until no lumps remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense instead of soft. If you like extra flavor, fold in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits at this stage.
- For the microwave method, pour the batter into a microwave-safe baking dish or large mug and microwave on high for about 5 to 6 minutes, checking at the 4-minute mark. The cake should be firm to the touch but still soft and moist inside. For the oven method, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), pour the batter into a greased cake tin, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Test by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool for 2 to 3 minutes if using the microwave or 5 minutes if using the oven. You can serve it plain or add toppings like powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh fruits, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent touch. This cake is best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat slightly before serving to bring back its softness.
- This 15-minute cake recipe is not only quick but also versatile. You can experiment with flavors by adding coffee powder for a mocha version, orange zest for a citrus twist, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth. The texture is light and fluffy, making it perfect for pairing with tea, coffee, or milk. With this recipe in your collection, you’ll never run out of ideas for a last-minute dessert that impresses everyone without stress.