When it comes to baking, cakes are often made in large quantities, but what if you only need enough to serve two? Baking for two can be a delightful and intimate experience, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just wanting a sweet treat to share. Here are five easy cake recipes that are perfect for smaller gatherings or romantic evenings, ensuring you can indulge without worrying about leftovers.
1. Mini Chocolate Mug Cake
For those with a sweet tooth and little time, this mug cake recipe is a lifesaver. Here’s how to make it:
- 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon water
- Optional: 1⁄4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix the dry ingredients in a microwave-safe mug. Add the wet ingredients and stir until smooth. Microwave on high for about 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until the cake has risen and appears set.
Enjoy Fresh from the Mug
This chocolate mug cake is not only quick to whip up, but it also gives you the satisfaction of baking a cake from scratch in just minutes. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.
✨ Note: Microwave times may vary, so keep an eye on your mug as you cook to avoid overflow.
2. Lemon Drizzle Cake for Two
If you’re craving something bright and refreshing, this lemon drizzle cake is the perfect treat:
- 1⁄4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar
- 1⁄2 cup self-raising flour
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Zest of half a lemon
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Cream the butter and sugar together. Beat in the egg, then fold in the flour, lemon zest, and milk. Transfer to a small loaf tin (pre-greased) and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. Once baked, prick the top with a toothpick and drizzle over the lemon juice and sugar mixture while still warm for that classic tang.
Refreshingly Simple
This lemon drizzle cake combines a dense, yet moist texture with a tangy glaze, making it an ideal dessert that’s neither too sweet nor too heavy.
3. Classic Vanilla Sponge Cake
The charm of a vanilla sponge cake lies in its simplicity:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1⁄2 cup self-raising flour
- 3 tablespoons milk
Beat the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then fold in the flour followed by milk. Divide the mixture between two mini cake tins or one medium-sized tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
Versatile and Delightful
A vanilla sponge cake is versatile; you can sandwich it with jam and whipped cream for a traditional British tea cake or simply enjoy it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar.
4. Carrot Cake Muffins
For a slightly more elaborate but still small-scale treat, consider making carrot cake muffins:
- 1⁄3 cup flour
- 1⁄4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1⁄4 teaspoon each of baking powder and soda
- 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground ginger, nutmeg, and cloves
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- 1⁄4 cup grated carrot
- 1 tablespoon apple sauce
- Optional: nuts or raisins
Mix dry ingredients, then wet. Combine all ingredients, fill muffin tins about 2⁄3 full, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes.
Healthy and Flavorful
Carrot cake muffins offer a healthier alternative with the flavor and moisture that carrots naturally provide, plus the optional crunch from nuts or sweetness from raisins.
5. Raspberry Cheesecake Mini
For an elegant and indulgent dessert, try this raspberry cheesecake mini:
- 4-5 digestive biscuits or graham crackers (crushed)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1⁄3 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh raspberries
Combine crushed biscuits with butter for the base. Mix cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the biscuit base in a small ramekin or glass dish. Top with raspberries and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
💡 Note: Use a toothpick to draw decorative patterns on the cheesecake surface with the raspberry juice before setting.
Indulge in Elegance
This mini cheesecake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a touch of elegance, making it perfect for a special evening or when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Each of these easy cake recipes brings its own unique flavor and texture to the table, making it perfect for two to enjoy without the concern of having too much cake left over. Whether you're in the mood for something rich and chocolatey, tangy and zesty, or just a classic and comforting cake, these recipes ensure you can indulge in home baking even when serving just a couple. Remember, the joy of baking is not only in the eating but in the act of sharing and creating together, making these recipes even more delightful.
Can I double these recipes to make more?
+
Yes, you can double or even triple these recipes for larger gatherings. However, be mindful of the oven’s capacity and cooking times, as a larger quantity might require a slightly longer baking time.
What can I substitute if I don’t have self-raising flour?
+
You can make your own by adding 1 1⁄2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1⁄4 teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of all-purpose flour.
Are these recipes suitable for gluten-free diets?
+
Most recipes can be adapted for gluten-free diets by substituting with gluten-free flour. For the best results, choose a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, although some recipes might require slight adjustments.
