There’s one recipe I look forward to more than any other every year — a simple, comforting, and delightfully moist spoon cake that has become my personal tradition. While trendy desserts come and go, this one-bowl wonder remains a seasonal favorite I never skip.
Soft, warm, and filled with nostalgic flavor, this cake isn’t just easy — it’s a pure comfort dessert that you can make in under an hour with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
If you’re looking for a foolproof, oven-baked dessert that feels like a warm hug, this is the cake you’ll want to make again and again.
What Is Spoon Cake?
Spoon cake gets its name from its ultra-soft, pudding-like texture. Unlike traditional cakes, spoon cake is meant to be scooped with a spoon, not sliced. It’s typically served warm and often features seasonal fruits like peaches, berries, or apples depending on the time of year.
This easy spoon cake recipe comes together in just one bowl, no mixer required, and bakes into a golden, gooey delight that’s perfect for weeknights, holidays, or casual get-togethers.
Why I Wait All Year to Make This Spoon Cake
I associate this spoon cake with early autumn — that cozy time when the weather cools down and the kitchen becomes the heart of the home again. It’s a dessert that welcomes the changing seasons.
Whether I make it with ripe peaches in August, spiced apples in October, or berries in June, this cake adapts perfectly to the fruit of the moment. But it’s not just the flavors — it’s the simplicity, the warmth, and the nostalgia that make me wait all year for the perfect moment to bake it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This spoon cake keeps things minimal. You don’t need any fancy tools or rare ingredients — just the pantry basics and your choice of seasonal fruit.
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh fruit (peaches, apples, blueberries, or your favorite)
Optional: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth
How to Make This Easy Spoon Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish or an oven-safe bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until just combined.
Step 3: Add the Fruit
Fold in your fresh fruit of choice. If you’re using apples or firm peaches, you may want to sauté them briefly in butter for extra tenderness.
Step 4: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean around the edges (the center will be softer — that’s the magic of spoon cake).
Step 5: Serve
Spoon it into bowls while warm. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey.
Why This Cake Works So Well
- One bowl, no fuss: Minimal prep and cleanup
- Versatile: Use whatever fruit is in season
- Comfort food classic: Warm, soft, and soothing
- Crowd-pleaser: Always gets rave reviews
- Make-ahead friendly: Tastes great the next day
Tips for the Perfect Spoon Cake
- Don’t overmix the batter — stir until just combined for the softest texture.
- Use room-temperature milk and butter for even mixing.
- Try a cast iron skillet for an extra crispy edge.
- Add lemon zest or almond extract to switch up the flavor profile.
Seasonal Variations
| Season | Fruit Suggestion | Flavor Twist |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Fresh peaches | Cinnamon & brown sugar |
| Fall | Apples or pears | Nutmeg & cardamom |
| Winter | Cranberries | Orange zest & vanilla |
| Spring | Strawberries | Lemon zest & a dollop of cream |
| Nutrition Facts(per serving) | |
|---|---|
| 254 | Calories |
| 16g | Fat |
| 27g | Carbs |
| 2g | Protein |
Show Full Nutrition Label
There’s a reason I wait all year to make this spoon cake — it’s simple, satisfying, and filled with comfort. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, it’s the kind of dessert that brings people back to the table.
If you try this spoon cake once, it may just become your annual tradition too.
FAQs
Q1: What is the texture of spoon cake like?
A: Spoon cake has a soft, custard-like center with a golden, slightly crisp top. It’s meant to be scooped, not sliced.
Q2: Can I use frozen fruit in this recipe?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain the fruit to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
Q3: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Use plant-based milk and substitute melted coconut oil or vegan butter.
