Why This 3 Ingredient Cake is a Must-Try
You know those days when you want a homemade treat but don’t feel like dealing with a sink full of dishes or a shopping list that’s longer than your arm? This 3 ingredient cake is your new best friend. It’s the kind of cake recipe you can whip up with minimal effort, and yet, it still delivers on flavour, texture, and versatility. Whether you’re a baking pro or just getting started, this cake is an absolute game-changer!
- No fancy ingredients – Everything you need is probably in your kitchen already!
- One-bowl wonder – Less washing up = more time enjoying cake.
- Moist & fluffy texture – Thanks to yoghurt or sour cream, every bite is soft and delicious.
- Versatile – Keep it simple or dress it up with add-ins and toppings.
- Perfect for any occasion – Last-minute guests? Cake cravings? Kids’ lunchboxes? Sorted!
The Secret to a Perfect 3 Ingredient Cake
You might be wondering: How can a cake work with just 3 ingredients? It all comes down to the magic of the right combination:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – This is the main source of sweetness and also binds the batter together. It adds a rich, caramel-like flavour that makes the cake extra delicious.
- Yoghurt or Sour Cream – This provides moisture and a subtle tanginess, helping the cake rise and stay soft. A full-fat option works best!
- Self-Raising Flour – The key to that fluffy texture! It already contains baking powder, which helps the cake rise beautifully.
Best Ingredients for the Best Cake
To get the best results from your 3 ingredient cake, here’s what I recommend:
- Condensed Milk – Use full-fat versions like Nestlé or Carnation for the best texture.
- Yoghurt or Sour Cream – Thick Greek yoghurt or full-fat sour cream works best. If your yoghurt is too runny, the batter may be too thin.
- Self-Raising Flour – If you don’t have any, make your own by adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder per cup of plain flour.
Fun Ways to Customise Your Cake
This 3 ingredient cake is amazing on its own, but if you want to mix things up, try these add-ins:
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall sweetness.
- Lemon or Orange Zest – Adds a bright, citrusy flavour.
- Choc Chips – Because everything is better with chocolate! 🍫
- Fresh or Frozen Berries – Raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries work beautifully.
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg – A pinch adds a warm, spiced flavour.
Serving Suggestions
Your 3 ingredient cake is perfect on its own, but here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- With a dusting of icing sugar – Simple yet elegant!
- Drizzled with melted chocolate – Because, why not? 😍
- Served with whipped cream and fresh fruit – A fresh, summery dessert.
- Topped with cream cheese frosting – For a richer, more indulgent treat.
- With a scoop of ice cream – The warm cake + cold ice cream combo is unbeatable!
How to Store Your Cake
Got leftovers? (Though I doubt it! 😉) Here’s how to keep your 3 ingredient cake fresh:
- At room temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the fridge – If you’ve added fresh fruit, keep it refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Freezing – Slice and wrap in cling film, then freeze for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temp before serving.
More Easy Cake Recipes to Try
If you love this 3 ingredient cake, here are some other simple, must-try cakes:
So, what are you waiting for? Whip up this 3 ingredient cake, snap a pic, and tag me @steph_cooks_stuff on Instagram! 📸🍰 Happy baking!
3 Ingredient Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
This cake is so easy, it practically bakes itself! No butter, no eggs—just three simple ingredients, and you’ve got a soft, fluffy cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can jazz it up with your favourite mix-ins like choc chips, berries, or citrus zest. Perfect for last-minute sweet cravings or when you need a quick dessert with pantry staples!
Ingredients
OPTIONAL ADD-INS
Instructions
- Mix condensed milk, yoghurt, and flour in a bowl until smooth.
- Stir in any add-ins if using.
- Pour into a lined cake tin and bake at 180°C for 35–40 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Cool, slice, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free self-raising flour blend for the same soft and fluffy texture.
You can try buttermilk, crème fraîche, or thick coconut yoghurt for a dairy-free version.
Absolutely! Pour the batter into a microwave-safe dish and cook on high for 5–7 minutes. Check with a skewer to see if it’s done.