For National Cake Day!

Baking doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. These three recipes are simple to make, affordable, and use everyday ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, these cakes are perfect for sharing with flatmates (or enjoying on your own)!

Carrot cake

This moist and delicious carrot cake is packed with flavour and requires minimal effort. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables!

Ingredients (serves 8)

• 150ml vegetable oil
• 150g light brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 200g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 200g carrots, grated
• 50g walnuts, chopped (optional)

For the icing:

• 200g cream cheese
• 50g unsalted butter, softened
• 100g icing sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4) and grease a 20cm round cake tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the oil, sugar, and eggs until smooth.
3. Sift in the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then fold gently into the wet mixture.
4. Stir in the grated carrots and walnuts (if using).
5. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool completely before making the icing.
7. For the icing, beat together the cream cheese, butter, icing sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over the cooled cake and serve.

Chocolate mug cake

This single-serving microwave cake is perfect for when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to bake a whole cake.

Ingredients (serves 1)

• 4 tbsp self-raising flour
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 3 tbsp caster sugar
• 3 tbsp milk
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method

1. In a large microwave-safe mug, mix the flour, cocoa powder, and sugar.
2. Add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract, then stir until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 1½ to 2 minutes, or until the cake has risen and set.
4. Let it cool slightly before digging in. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chocolate chips for extra indulgence!

Lemon drizzle cake

Bright, zesty, and easy to make, this lemon drizzle cake is a classic that’s always a hit.

Ingredients (serves 10)

• 175g unsalted butter, softened
• 175g caster sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 175g self-raising flour
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 50ml milk

For the drizzle:

• Juice of 2 lemons
• 100g granulated sugar

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4) and grease and line a loaf tin.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then fold in the flour, lemon zest, and milk until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into the tin and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
5. While the cake is still warm, mix the lemon juice and sugar for the drizzle, then pour it evenly over the cake. Allow it to cool in the tin before serving.

These cakes are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without requiring too much time or effort. Happy baking!