Photo: José PicayoIf you're like the contestants on Worst Bakers in America, you know that even the best-intentioned bakers can make mistakes with cake recipes, even when measurements seem exact. But don’t worry, making a homemade cake doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Whether you're new to baking or just want an easy recipe, these quick and simple cake options are perfect for building your baking confidence. Each recipe is chosen to be both uncomplicated and quick, allowing you to bake a delicious crumb cake, cheesecake, chocolate cake, and more in just a few hours.
1. Double-Chocolate Zucchini Cake
Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors HallThis easy, one-bowl chocolate cake recipe from Michele Song's cookbook, Chocolate Lover, is perfect for any occasion. For an extra rich chocolaty taste, be sure to use unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder instead of regular. Top it off with our indulgent cream cheese frosting (you’ll definitely want to lick the bowl clean!).
2. Simple Ice Cream Cake
Marcus NilssonThe trick to this incredibly easy dessert with only four ingredients? Simply stack ice cream sandwiches to create your cake layers.
3. Gingersnap Cherry Cheesecake
José PicayoThe gingersnap crust is simple to prepare—just crush the cookies in a food processor, mix them with melted butter, and press the mixture into a pan.
4. Slow Cooker Angel Food Cake
Victor ProtasioStrawberries and whipped cream make the perfect luxurious topping for this fluffy and easy angel food cake.
5. Slow Cooker Chocolate Pudding Cake
Victor ProtasioThis easy-to-make dump cake requires minimal effort—just toss in the ingredients, set the slow cooker, and let it work its magic for three hours.
6. Chocolate Hazelnut Swirl Cake
Antonis AchilleosThis indulgent treat combines the richness of a dessert with the comforting feel of a coffee cake, featuring mesmerizing zebra-like stripes formed from hazelnut and chocolate. The irresistible crunch of the streusel topping perfectly complements the dish, making it the ideal choice for a dinner gathering.
