Iron Skillet Plain Cake
A classic iron skillet plain cake with simple ingredients, moist texture, and sweet vanilla flavor, perfect for family gatherings or casual dessert cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir flour, sugar, and vegetable shortening together.
- Add sweet milk and vanilla flavoring.
- Beat well until smooth.
- Add eggs and beat for 2 more minutes.
- Bake in an iron skillet or two 8-inch cake pans at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider sifting the self-rising flour before measuring. You can substitute the vegetable shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you don't have sweet milk, regular milk with a tablespoon of sugar mixed in will work as well. This cake can also be flavored with almond extract instead of vanilla for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious cake plain, or top it with a simple glaze or frosting for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries on the side. For a delightful variation, consider serving it with Guilt-Free Cheese Sauce drizzled over the top or alongside a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it, which will extend its freshness for about a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Iron Skillet Plain Cake contains roughly 647 calories, with 6g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but you'll need to add baking powder and salt to achieve the same leavening effect. For every cup of all-purpose flour, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, it might be due to overbaking. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. You can also brush the cake with milk or a simple syrup after baking to add moisture. A dollop of whipped cream can also help to enhance its texture.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well, and adjust the liquid slightly if needed for the best texture.
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).