5-Minute Cake

Prep: 5 min Cuisine: American

A quick and easy 5-minute cake that yields moist, fluffy muffins, loaves, or layers, perfect for a spontaneous sweet treat or dessert for any occasion.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup butter
  • 1 egg
  • 1 1/2 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • vanilla
  • milk

Instructions

  1. Put softened butter in a 1-cup measuring cup.
  2. Add the egg, then enough milk to fill the cup.
  3. Sift dry ingredients together.
  4. Pour liquid into dry ingredients and beat for 5 minutes.
  5. Bake at about 375°F as muffins, loaf, or layers.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don’t have milk, you can substitute with a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk. To enhance the vanilla flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing; if it's too hard, microwave it for a few seconds until soft but not melted.

Serving Suggestions

This 5-Minute Cake is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with Easy Gooey Rolls for a delightful breakfast spread. Serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for dessert. It can also be complemented with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable bag for up to three months. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of 5-Minute Cake contains roughly 483 calories, with 4g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 617mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).

483 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.8g 8% DV
Total Fat 4.4g 6% DV
Carbs 55.7g 20% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 12g 24% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 616.7mg 27% DV
Potassium 413.8mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 119.9mg 40% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 30.7mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 4.9mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 385.4mg 30% DV
Iron 1.7mg 10% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making it denser. You can also use gluten-free flour blends to make this cake gluten-free, adjusting the liquid as necessary.

What can I do if I don't have baking powder?

If you don't have baking powder, you can create a substitute by combining 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. This will create the necessary leavening effect for your cake. Mix it in with the wet ingredients before combining with the dry ingredients.

How can I make this cake more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of your cake, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added texture and taste. A splash of almond extract can also add a delightful twist to the classic vanilla flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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