If you are looking for a quick, delicious, and foolproof dessert, this Easiest Cake Recipe is an absolute game changer. It turns out beautifully moist and flavorful every single time, and the best part is how simple the process is—from mixing to baking, you barely spend any time fussing around. Whether you’re a beginner baker or someone who wants a sweet treat on the table fast, this cake will quickly become your go-to for celebrations, family dinners, or an everyday indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, relying on basic pantry staples that come together to create the perfect texture and taste. Each ingredient plays a vital role in ensuring your cake is moist, tender, and full of flavor.
- 1 box yellow or chocolate cake mix: This forms the base, offering consistent structure and flavor with minimal effort.
- 3 large eggs: Eggs provide moisture and richness, helping the cake rise properly while adding tenderness.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: It keeps the cake wonderfully moist and gives it a lovely soft crumb.
- 1 cup water: Water balances the batter consistency and ensures even baking without dryness.
How to Make Easiest Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans well to prevent sticking and ensure an even bake. You can use butter, oil, or non-stick spray for this step.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the ingredients together for about two minutes until everything is smooth and blended. This step is where the magic begins — the batter should be silky without lumps.
Step 3: Pour and Smooth
Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s). Take a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth out the top, ensuring the batter is evenly distributed for consistent baking and rise.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
Bake the cake for 28 to 32 minutes if using a 9×13-inch pan, or 25 to 30 minutes for the smaller round pans. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This means your cake is baked through but still moist and tender inside.
Step 5: Cool Before Serving
Allow the cake to cool completely before adding frosting, whipped cream, or any toppings you like. Cooling ensures a firm texture that holds together beautifully when sliced.
How to Serve Easiest Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This cake is a blank canvas ready for your creativity. Classic frosting pairs beautifully, whether store-bought or homemade. For some texture and fresh notes, add whipped cream or scatter fresh berries on top. Chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles are fun touches that also bring extra flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Complement your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic duo, or serve alongside fresh fruit salad for a lighter contrast. A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the cozy feeling of this sweet treat, making it perfect for sharing and savoring.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate your Easiest Cake Recipe, consider layering it with frosting for a layered cake effect. You can also cut it into fun shapes using cookie cutters or serve in petite cubes as part of a dessert platter. Wrapping individual slices with decorative paper makes them great for gifting to friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your cake is frosted or cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days at room temperature, perfect for enjoying over a few days without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save your cake for later, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the cake or slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to indulge again.
Reheating
For that fresh-baked warmth, gently microwave your cake slices for 10 to 15 seconds before serving. This quick step revives the softness and enhances flavors, making every bite taste just like it came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of oil?
Absolutely! While vegetable oil is neutral and keeps the cake moist, you can substitute with canola, sunflower, or even melted coconut oil. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain texture.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, definitely! This is called the Easiest Cake Recipe for a reason. Its simple ingredient list and clear instructions make it perfect for novice bakers, yet it still produces professional-tasting results.
Can I add flavors or extras to the batter?
For sure! You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to customize your cake. Just fold them in gently once the batter is ready for an extra flavor burst.
What kind of frosting works best?
Any frosting you love will work well here. Classic buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a quick glaze complement the cake nicely. If you want a lighter touch, whipped cream is a lovely option too.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The best test is the toothpick method: insert a toothpick or thin skewer into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (but no raw batter), your cake is done perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Easiest Cake Recipe is truly a delight, combining simplicity with deliciousness in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, it’s the kind of recipe that’s always ready to impress without stress. Go ahead and give it a try—you might just find your new favorite cake to bake and share!
Print
Easiest Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easiest Cake recipe uses a simple boxed cake mix combined with eggs, vegetable oil, and water to create a moist and delicious cake perfect for beginners or quick dessert cravings. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can bake a classic yellow or chocolate cake that’s ready to be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box yellow or chocolate cake mix
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans thoroughly to ensure easy cake release.
- Mix Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients until the batter is smooth and lump-free, which should take about 2 minutes.
- Pour Batter: Pour the smooth batter into the prepared pan(s). Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the top evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the pan(s) in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes if using a 9×13-inch pan, or 25 to 30 minutes for round pans. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before frosting or serving to prevent melting or sliding frosting.
Notes
- Enhance flavor by mixing in chocolate chips, sprinkles, or flavored extracts like vanilla or almond into your batter.
- Top with store-bought or homemade frosting, whipped cream, or fresh fruit for added taste and presentation.
