Simple Cake Recipes for Beginners

Baking a cake from scratch can feel a little intimidating.

You see those perfect cakes online and think, “There is NO WAY I could ever make that.”

But here’s the thing: you absolutely can.

Making a delicious, impressive-looking cake does not have to be complicated AT ALL. You don’t need a bunch of fancy tools or weird ingredients. You just need a simple recipe that you can trust to work.

That’s exactly what this list is for.

I’ve put together a collection of super straightforward cake recipes that are PERFECT for anyone just starting out. These are the recipes that will help you build your confidence and make something you’ll be incredibly proud of.

So, let’s find the perfect cake for you to bake first.

1. Pink Lemonade Cake

Pink Lemonade Cake

Pink Lemonade Cake is a sweet, refreshing take on a classic white cake with a smooth pink tint.

Perfect for summer, it’s easy to make and looks extra special with lemon slices and pretty straws.

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2. Millionaire’s Cake

Millionaire's Cake

Millionaire’s Cake is a rich and creamy layer cake that’s perfect for celebrations or sharing with friends.

With a buttery crust, sweet caramel layer, and smooth chocolate topping, it’s a showstopper that feels fancy but is easy to make.

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3. Banana Pudding Poke Cake

Banana Pudding Poke Cake

Banana Pudding Poke Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that blends moist cake with creamy banana pudding.

It’s a quick and delicious twist on a classic, ideal for potlucks or weekend treats.

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4. Easy Pineapple Cake

Easy Pineapple Cake

Easy Pineapple Cake is a bright, tropical treat made with a simple cake mix and a touch of coconut.

It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for summer gatherings or when you want something light and sweet.

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5. Mini Sprinkle Cupcakes (Mini Funfetti Cupcakes)

Mini Sprinkle Cupcakes (Mini Funfetti Cupcakes)

Mini Sprinkle Cupcakes are tiny, sweet, and packed with fun from every bite.

Perfect for celebrations, they’re a cute copycat version of the beloved funfetti cake.

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6. Cake Balls Recipe

Cake Balls Recipe

Cake Balls are fun, bite-sized treats made with cake mix, frosting, and candy melts.

Great for gifting or party favors, they’re easy to make and totally customizable.

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7. Cake Truffles Recipe

Cake Truffles Recipe

Cake Truffles are smooth, creamy bites made from cake crumbs, frosting, and candy melts.

You can flavor and decorate them for any occasion, and they’re always a favorite.

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8. Rainbow Swirl Tie Dye Cupcakes

Rainbow Swirl Tie Dye Cupcakes

Rainbow Swirl Tie Dye Cupcakes are bold, colorful, and perfect for summer or kids’ parties.

A simple twist on cupcakes that turns dessert into a vibrant, fun experience.

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9. Toy Story Cupcake

Toy Story Cupcake

Toy Story Cupcake features adorable green alien cupcakes that bring the fun of the movie to your dessert table.

These easy-to-make cupcakes are a hit at kids’ parties and make a playful treat for any Toy Story fan.

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10. Rainbow Shopkins Cake

Rainbow Shopkins Cake

Rainbow Shopkins Cake is a vibrant, layered cake perfect for celebrating with Shopkins lovers.

This easy rainbow cake comes together quickly and adds a dazzling touch to any themed birthday party.

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11. Pistachio Pudding Cake

Pistachio Pudding Cake

Pistachio Pudding Cake is a simple bundt cake with a rich, nutty flavor that’s great for any occasion.

With just a few pantry staples, it’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that works beautifully for spring or St. Patrick’s Day.

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12. Coconut Poke Cake

Coconut Poke Cake

Coconut Poke Cake delivers sweet, tropical vibes with yellow cake, coconut cream pudding, and toasted coconut.

This no-fuss dessert is a delicious treat for coconut fans and perfect for summer gatherings.

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13. Lemon Poke Cake

Lemon Poke Cake

Lemon Poke Cake is a moist lemon cake layered with tangy lemon curd and fluffy whipped topping.

It’s a quick and easy dessert that brings bright, zesty flavor to any season.

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14. Cupcake In A Mug

Cupcake In A Mug

Cupcake In A Mug is a fast, single-serving dessert made in minutes using a microwave.

This fun mug recipe is perfect for a sweet craving, great for one or two lucky people.

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15. Lemon Poke Cake

Lemon Poke Cake

Lemon Poke Cake is a moist, flavorful cake made with a boxed mix and instant pudding for easy prep.

It’s a guaranteed favorite for anyone who loves a bright, tangy dessert.

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16. Pink Lemonade Cake

Pink Lemonade Cake

Pink Lemonade Cake is a sweet, refreshing take on a classic white cake with a smooth pink tint.

Perfect for summer, it’s easy to make and looks extra special with lemon slices and pretty straws.

Get the Recipe

17. Millionaire’s Cake

Millionaire's Cake

Millionaire’s Cake is a rich and creamy layer cake that’s perfect for celebrations or sharing with friends.

With a buttery crust, sweet caramel layer, and smooth chocolate topping, it’s a showstopper that feels fancy but is easy to make.

Get the Recipe

18. Banana Pudding Poke Cake

Banana Pudding Poke Cake

Banana Pudding Poke Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that blends moist cake with creamy banana pudding.

It’s a quick and delicious twist on a classic, ideal for potlucks or weekend treats.

Get the Recipe

19. Easy Pineapple Cake

Easy Pineapple Cake

Easy Pineapple Cake is a bright, tropical treat made with a simple cake mix and a touch of coconut.

It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for summer gatherings or when you want something light and sweet.

Get the Recipe