Simple Cake Designs
These simple cake designs prove that you don’t need professional tools or hours of decorating to create a beautiful cake. From sprinkles to fresh fruit to rustic swirls, these ideas are beginner-friendly, family-approved, and adaptable for any occasion.
Equipment
- Two 9-inch Round Cake Pans
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 3–4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding flour mixture and milk to the batter, beginning and ending with flour. Mix gently until just combined.
- Divide batter between pans and smooth tops. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate simply: press sprinkles on frosting, create rustic swirls, top with fresh fruit, add a chocolate drip, or frost with whipped cream and dust with cocoa.
Notes
Try seasonal themes, kid-friendly sprinkle cakes, or elegant versions with fruit and edible flowers. Keep designs stress-free by focusing on one or two simple decorations.