A simple, buttery sugar cake with a crisp top—timeless comfort made easy
Description
Old-Fashioned Sugar Cake is a beautifully simple dessert that proves less really is more. Made with just six basic ingredients, this tender, buttery cake bakes up soft on the inside with a lightly crackled sugar crust on top. There’s no frosting, no complicated steps, and no special equipment—just a cozy, nostalgic cake that tastes like something passed down through generations. Inspired by classic Midwestern home baking, this sugar cake is perfect for everyday moments when you want something warm, sweet, and familiar.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Home bakers who love simple, old-fashioned desserts
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Beginners looking for a foolproof cake recipe
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Busy households needing a quick, no-fuss treat
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Potlucks, church gatherings, and casual get-togethers
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Anyone craving nostalgic comfort food
Why It’s Great
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Uses only 6 pantry staples
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No frosting or decorating required
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Soft, buttery texture with a crackly sugar topping
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Easy to dress up or keep simple
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Perfect with coffee, tea, or brunch
Ingredients
Sugar Cake Batter
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs, room temperature
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½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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1½ teaspoons baking powder
Optional Flavor Enhancers
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Pinch of salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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8×8-inch baking pan
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Mixing bowls
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Hand mixer or whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Rubber spatula
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Parchment paper (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. -
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt (if using). Set aside. -
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. -
Add Eggs and Flavoring
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract if using. -
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients in two additions, alternating with the milk. Mix gently just until combined—do not overmix. -
Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the top.
Bake for 25–32 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. -
Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes. Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Storage
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Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days
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Refrigerate for up to 4 days if needed
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Warm slices briefly before serving for best texture
FAQ
Can I double this recipe?
Yes. Double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Does this cake need frosting?
No. The crackly sugar top provides all the sweetness and texture it needs.
Can I add toppings?
Absolutely. Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries if desired.
What makes the top crackly?
Sprinkling sugar over the batter before baking creates a light, crisp crust as it melts and caramelizes.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Sugar Cake is the kind of recipe that never goes out of style. Simple, reliable, and comforting, it’s a reminder that good baking doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether enjoyed plain with a cup of coffee or dressed up for guests, this six-ingredient cake delivers warmth, nostalgia, and timeless flavor in every bite
