A guide to a delicious school cake

Love in Layers

a short 'n' sweet recipe

There’s something so grounding about baking a cake together. The sound of music in the background, which allows you both to boogie whilst baking, the scent of vanilla traveling through the kitchen, and that moment, you know the one , where you both lean over the bowl, laughing as you spot an eggshell that has sneaked its way in. It’s simple, messy, and somehow perfect.

This is a recipe I adore; it is easy and hassle-free. It’s a classic school cake, nostalgic and sweet. But when baked with someone you love, it becomes something more..  a quiet reminder that joy lives in the small, shared simple joys.

Simple School Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 200g unsalted butter, softened

• 200g caster sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 200g self-raising flour

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp milk

• Icing sugar

• Sprinkles 

Method:

୨୧ Preheat your oven to 180°C. Line a square tin with parchment. ( I use butter to help stick it down )

୨୧ In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. This part is lovely to do together… one stirs while the other holds the bowl steady, a quiet bit of teamwork.

 ୨୧ Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each. Stir in the vanilla.

 ୨୧ Gently fold in the flour, then add the milk to loosen the batter. 

 ୨୧ Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and springy to the touch.

୨୧ Mix your icing sugar with water until thick and pourable, once your cake is cool pour the icing sugar on top and coat your creation in sprinkles.

୨୧ Once set, cut into square slices.

Enjoy with tea, or sneak a corner piece while it’s still cooling … because that’s what love looks like in the kitchen, a bit imperfect, a bit impatient, but always sweet.

With love always,

Anaiá Jonas Xx