Need a quick homemade dessert that’s irresistibly soft, fluffy, and ready in just 15 minutes? This easy 15-minute cake recipe is your go-to treat when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple pantry ingredients and endless flavor options, it’s perfect for birthdays, last-minute guests, or those cozy nights when your sweet tooth strikes.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¼ cup | Optional, for chocolate lovers |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon | |
| Salt | Pinch | Balances sweetness |
| Milk | ½ cup | Or buttermilk for richer texture |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons | Melted butter also works |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Use pure vanilla for best flavor |
| White vinegar | ½ teaspoon | Or lemon juice for acidity |
Optional Toppings
| Topping | Use |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | For a classic dusting |
| Whipped cream | Adds a light, creamy finish |
| Fresh berries | For color and freshness |
| Chocolate ganache or frosting | For extra indulgence |
How to Make It
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder (if using), baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix milk, oil (or butter), vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth and creamy.
4. Bring It Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula until just combined — avoid overmixing for a tender crumb.
💡 Want to personalize it? Fold in chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even a handful of shredded coconut!
5. Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).
6. Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool slightly before slicing.
Dust with powdered sugar, top with whipped cream, or drizzle with chocolate ganache. Serve warm or at room temperature with coffee, tea, or milk.
Final Touch
This easy homemade cake proves that delicious comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. Moist, flavorful, and incredibly quick, it’s the kind of dessert you’ll make over and over again.