If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s both simple and satisfying, this Lazy Day Cake Recipe is your new best friend. Perfect for those moments when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen, this cake combines everyday ingredients into a soft, tender dessert that feels like a warm hug. It’s wonderfully versatile, inviting you to enjoy it as is or dress it up with your favorite toppings. Believe me, once you discover how effortless and tasty this cake is, it’ll become your go-to for any casual get-together or quiet evening craving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven clear glass bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each containing a different baking ingredient. At the top left is a large bowl filled with white flour. To its right is a slightly smaller bowl with white milk. Below the flour bowl is a small bowl of granulated white sugar. In the center is a small bowl holding two pieces of yellow butter. To the right of the butter is a small bowl with white powder, possibly baking powder. Below the sugar bowl is a tiny bowl containing dark brown vanilla extract. Finally, at the bottom center is a small bowl with one white egg. All bowls are simple and clear, showing the texture and color of the ingredients clearly photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Lazy Day Cake Recipe shines because of its humble but essential ingredients. Each one plays a part in creating the ideal texture, flavor, and color that make this cake so delightful and easy to pull together.

1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation giving structure to your cake for that perfect crumb.
2 tsp baking powder: This little leavening agent ensures your cake rises beautifully and stays light.
2/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances flavor and helps with browning the crust.
1/4 cup butter (softened): Adds richness and tenderness, making every bite melt in your mouth.
1 egg: Binds the ingredients while contributing moisture and a slight fluffiness.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor, making the cake irresistibly aromatic.
2/3 cup milk: Hydrates the dry ingredients and keeps the cake wonderfully soft and delicate.
3 tbsp powdered sugar (optional): A light dusting for a touch of elegance and extra sweetness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Lazy Day Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Greasing an 8×8 baking dish ensures that your cake will come out cleanly and keep its perfect shape. This simple prep step sets the stage for success.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder in a medium bowl. This dry mix is essential to getting the right texture in your Lazy Day Cake Recipe — no lumps and an even rise every time.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Use a hand or stand mixer to beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This process incorporates air into your batter, giving the cake a tender crumb and lift.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Now add the egg, vanilla extract, and milk to your butter-sugar blend. Beat on a low speed until everything is just combined. This gentle mixing keeps your batter light and ready for the flour to join in.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add your flour and baking powder mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix well after each addition to avoid any dry pockets. Final batter should be smooth and ready to pour into your prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake the cake for 25 to 30 minutes and check doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center — it should come out clean. Let the cake cool on a rack to ensure it sets perfectly before removing it from the pan.

Step 7: Optional Dusting

Once cooled, sprinkle the top with powdered sugar for that classic finishing touch that adds both sweetness and a pretty presentation.

How to Serve Lazy Day Cake Recipe

A square, golden-brown baked cake sits inside a clear glass baking dish with handles on both sides, resting on a white marbled surface with a metal cooling rack underneath. The cake has a smooth top and slightly darker edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This cake welcomes a variety of garnishes. Fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey all complement the gentle vanilla flavor. Even a smear of jam or a few toasted nuts provide extra texture and a splash of color.

Side Dishes

Pair your Lazy Day Cake Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a warm cup of tea, or a bold espresso. These pairings highlight the cake’s subtle sweetness and offer delicious contrasts in temperature and intensity.

Creative Ways to Present

Keep it rustic by serving the cake as squares on a wooden board or dress it up with edible flowers and a dusting of cocoa powder for a special occasion. Layer it with frosting or fresh fruit for a delightful twist that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep it moist and fresh. Proper storage preserves its soft texture for enjoying later.

Freezing

If you want to save some for a treat down the road, wrap the cake in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying a cake that tastes like it’s freshly baked.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a low oven for a few minutes to revive that just-baked feel, perfect for cozy afternoons or last minute dessert cravings.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour in the Lazy Day Cake Recipe?

All-purpose flour works best for this recipe to achieve the right texture. You can try whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but it may make the cake denser. Adjustments to liquid may be needed.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a good-quality plant-based margarine and use any non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk. The cake will still turn out moist and delicious.

How can I add more flavor to the Lazy Day Cake Recipe?

Mix in a teaspoon of lemon zest, a handful of chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter. These additions make the cake more exciting while keeping it simple to prepare.

What’s the best way to tell when the cake is done?

Use a toothpick or skewer inserted in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked and ready to come out of the oven.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on the cake and test for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.

Final Thoughts

This Lazy Day Cake Recipe is exactly what you want when you crave something sweet without the fuss. It’s approachable, forgiving, and yields a tender cake that feels homemade every single time. Give it a try and make it your new favorite for those relaxed afternoons or last-minute dessert needs — I promise it won’t disappoint!

Lazy Day Cake Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.4 from 3 reviews

This Lazy Day Cake is a simple, quick-to-make dessert that’s perfect for when you want a homemade treat without any fuss. With basic pantry ingredients and minimal prep, it yields a moist, tender cake with a delightful vanilla flavor, perfect for enjoying on any casual day.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2/3 cup milk

Optional Topping

3 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder, whisking them together to ensure even distribution.
Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a hand or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and light.
Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk on low speed until all are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing well after each addition to form a uniform batter.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired before slicing and serving.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
Use room temperature egg and milk for better batter consistency.
Check doneness at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking, as ovens may vary.
Powdered sugar topping is optional but adds a nice sweet finish.
You can easily double the recipe to make a larger cake using a 9×13 pan; adjust baking time accordingly.