12 Easy Recipes for Cakes, Smoothies

Whipping up tasty treats at home doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you’re craving something sweet or a refreshing drink, these simple recipes will satisfy your taste without hours in the kitchen. From fruity smoothies to delicious cakes, these 12 recipes use basic ingredients you probably already have at home. They’re easy to follow, budget-friendly, and suitable for adding a bit of comfort to your day. With a mix of light flavors and familiar steps, these ideas are a nice way to enjoy homemade goodness without any fuss.

1. Fluffy Lemon Cake

Making this light and tangy lemon cake requires just a handful of common ingredients. Mix 250g all-purpose flour, 200g sugar, 3 eggs, 100ml vegetable oil, 150ml milk, and the zest of two lemons in a large bowl. Fold ingredients together until just combined, then pour into a greased 9-inch pan. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. For added zing, drizzle with a simple glaze made from 100g powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.

2. Banana Breakfast Smoothie

Start your morning with this filling banana smoothie that takes just minutes to prepare. Blend 2 ripe bananas, 250ml milk, 2 tablespoons honey, 3 tablespoons oats, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth. For added protein, include 2 tablespoons of peanut butter or a scoop of protein powder. The natural sweetness from the bananas means you won’t need much added sugar. This smoothie keeps you full for hours and provides steady energy throughout your morning.

3. Moist Chocolate Mug Cake

Satisfy your chocolate taste in just two minutes with this microwave mug cake. In a large mug, combine 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 3 tablespoons sugar, and ¼ teaspoon baking powder. Add 3 tablespoons milk, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, and a tiny pinch of salt. Mix well until no lumps remain. Microwave for 70-90 seconds until the cake rises but still looks slightly moist on top. Let it cool for one minute before enjoying this warm, gooey treat.

4. Berry Smoothie

This antioxidant-rich smoothie combines the mixed berries for a refreshing treat. Blend 1 cup frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), 1 banana, 240ml milk, and 2 tablespoons honey until smooth. For added nutrition, add 1 tablespoon chia seeds and a handful of spinach. This purple drink makes a post-workout refreshment. The frozen berries give it a thick, milkshake-like consistency without needing ice.

5. One-Bowl Carrot Cake

This simple carrot cake requires minimal cleanup and delivers better flavor. Mix 250g flour, 200g brown sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Add 3 eggs, 180ml vegetable oil, 2 cups grated carrots, and ½ cup chopped walnuts. Stir until just combined and pour into a greased 9×13 inch pan. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes. Top with a simple frosting made from 225g cream cheese, 50g butter, and 150g powdered sugar for the finishing touch.

6. No-Bake Cheesecake

Enjoy cheesecake without turning on your oven with this simple no-bake version. Crush 200g graham crackers and mix with 100g melted butter. Press firmly into a 9-inch springform pan and refrigerate. For the filling, beat 500g cream cheese with 100g sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice until smooth. Fold in 240ml whipped heavy cream. Spread over the crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Top with fresh fruit before serving.

7. Green Smoothie

Pack nutrients into your day with this green smoothie. Blend 2 cups fresh spinach, 1 banana, 1 apple (cored and chopped), 1 tablespoon ginger, 240ml coconut water, and the juice of half a lemon. For added staying power, add 1 tablespoon chia seeds or 2 tablespoons almond butter. The banana and apple provide enough sweetness that you won’t need added sugar. This smoothie delivers a natural energy boost without the caffeine crash later.

8. Simple Strawberry Cake

This light and fruity cake showcases fresh strawberries beautifully. Mix 250g flour, 200g sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add 3 eggs, 120ml milk, 100ml vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon almond extract. Fold in 300g diced strawberries (saving some for topping). Pour into a greased 9-inch round pan and bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes. After cooling, dust with powdered sugar and arrange remaining fresh strawberry slices on top for a pretty finish that’s suitable for spring gatherings.

9. Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie

This smoothie tastes like dessert but packs the nutrition of a balanced snack. Blend 1 frozen banana, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons peanut butter, 240ml milk, 1 tablespoon honey, and a handful of ice until smooth. For added protein, add 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter satisfies sweet cravings while providing healthy fats and protein. This thick, creamy smoothie works well as a post-workout recovery or an afternoon drink.

10. Honey Apple Cake

This fragrant apple cake uses honey instead of refined sugar for a naturally sweet flavor. Mix 250g flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon salt. In another bowl, combine 3 eggs, 150ml honey, 100ml vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon ginger. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in 3 diced apples. Pour into a greased 9-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes. The honey gives this cake a moist texture and rich flavor that improves after sitting for a day, making it suitable for advance preparation.

11. Coffee Banana Smoothie

Get your morning caffeine and breakfast in one convenient glass with this energizing smoothie. Blend 1 frozen banana, 120ml cold coffee, 120ml milk, 1 tablespoon honey, and a handful of ice until smooth. For a more filling breakfast, add 2 tablespoons of oats and 1 tablespoon of chia seeds. This smoothie provides the enhancement of coffee with the sustaining energy of fruit and fiber. It’s suitable for busy mornings when you need to dash out the door but still want something nutritious.

12. Simple Yogurt Cake

This versatile cake uses yogurt for moisture and a tender crumb. Mix 250g flour, 200g sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add 3 eggs, 200g plain yogurt, 100ml vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest. Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F for 50-55 minutes until golden. This basic cake can be customized with different flavors – try adding berries, chocolate chips, or nuts to the batter. The yogurt keeps it moist for days, making it suitable for lunchboxes or afternoon tea.