These 25 Single Layer Cake recipes are easy, no-fuss cakes that show how simple can still be elaborate and delicious!
I used to be a fancy layered cake girl when I first started baking. The fancier, the better. I used to make them elaborate, sometimes with fondant, and then I'd sell them! I've learned that fancy isn't always better, though. These days I have fallen in love with the simplicity of single layer snacking cakes, and my blog is filled with different types of one layer cakes that you can enjoy with your family, or to make for yourself.
What is a Single Layer Cake?
A single layer cake or a one layer cake is a no-fuss, easy cake made into a single layer. They can either be frosted or unfrosted, and are perfect for all types of occasions, ranging from birthday parties, potlucks, or just a fun weekend bake. My favorite part about a single layer cake is that you don't need any fancy tools to frost and it will still look like a show stopper!
Can I Freeze Single Layer Cakes?
Single Layer Snacking Cakes can be easily frozen. Wrap them tightly in saran wrap, then place in a freezer bag and freeze for 1-2 months, or however long the recipe calls for.
What Pan is Best for Single Layer Cakes?
I have several recommendations for different types of one layer cakes.
Round Cake - 8 inch round USA pan
Square Cake - 8 inch Square USA pan
Sheet Cake - 9x13 USA pan
Bundt Cake - Nordic Ware Bundt Pan
Springform Pan - 9 inch Nordic Ware Springform Pan
Helpful Equipment
Kitchen scale - It's so important to use a kitchen scale for accurate results. Adding too much or too little or something could completely change the recipe from being amazing to being too dry or too wet, etc.
Parchment paper - I love using pre-cut parchment paper. You can either get the large sheets or pre-cut round sheets.
Baking spray - You don't have to use baking spray for every single type of cake, but it's very important to make sure your bundt pans are greased very ver well. My favorite is Baker’s Joy. I've been using it for years and it has never failed me.
Mixer - You can use a stand mixer, or a handheld mixer for any batters or frostings that need creaming.
Whisks & Spatulas - Sometimes it's helpful to have a whisk or spatula when mixing ingredients.
Mixing bowls - I love using glass Mixing Bowls when making batters and doughs. They're also microwave-safe for when you need to warm an ingredient.
Sifters - It's helpful to have a sifter for sifting your dry ingredients or for finishing touches, like adding powdered sugar or cocoa powder to the finished product. It's also helpful for straining lumps out when making custards or curds.
Offset spatula - You don't necessarily need an offset spatula for one layer cakes, but sometimes it's helpful to have to spread the frosting smoothly or to spread your batter into an even layer, if needed. If you don't have one, it's ok; you could always use a spoon or butter knife.
Tips to Make the Best Single Layer Cakes
Read the recipe: Before starting on anything, read the entire recipe and any notes and tips the author left. This can help with troubleshooting and making sure you have all your ingredients, measurements, and anything you may have missed.
Measure Flour Correctly: As always, with any recipe, use a kitchen scale, as it is the best form of measuring your ingredients. If you don’t have a kitchen scale, fluff your flour, scoop flour with a spoon into a measuring cup and level off.
Grease & Line Pans: When called for, grease & line your pan. It's important to grease bundt cake pans because they tend to stick.
Don't over mix: Stop mixing when ingredients are incorporated, unless the recipe says otherwise.
Don't over bake: Start checking the cake at the least amount of time allotted. So, if a recipe says to bake between 25-30 minutes, start checking at 25 minutes, sometimes even a minute or two before.
Make ahead: You can make the cake layer ahead of time and store it overnight in an airtight container on the kitchen counter. You can even store in the fridge for a few days. If making it more than a few days ahead, I suggest wrapping it tightly and freezing the cake layer. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to use. Different recipes will call for different instructions, so always read the freezing and make ahead tips.
Single Layer Snacking Cakes
More Unique Single Layer Cakes to Try
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