Can I bake a cake without an oven?

Absolutely! You can make a delicious no oven cake using methods like steaming, stovetop cooking, microwaving, or air frying. These alternatives produce moist, fluffy cakes without the need for an oven.

Can cake be baked on the stove top?

Yes, baking a no oven cake on the stove top is a popular method. By using a heavy-bottomed pan with a lid, you can create an oven-like environment. This method steams the cake, ensuring even cooking without burning.

Can I bake a cake in a microwave?

You sure can! Microwaving is one of the quickest ways to make a no oven cake. With the right recipe and timing, you get a moist cake in just a few minutes. Be cautious not to overcook, as microwave heat can dry the cake quickly.

What is the easiest cake to make?

The easiest no oven cake recipes often include simple steamed cakes, mug cakes, or skillet cakes. These require minimal ingredients and equipment, perfect for beginners or quick cravings.

What is the alternative way to bake without an oven?

Besides steaming and stove-top methods, you can use an air fryer or pressure cooker as alternative ways to make a no oven cake. Each method mimics oven conditions differently but delivers excellent results.

How to bake on the stove top?

To bake a no oven cake on the stove top, place the batter in a greased pan, cover it tightly, and cook over very low heat. Use a heat diffuser or trivet to avoid direct flame contact and steam the cake evenly for 30-40 minutes.

Can we bake in an air fryer?

Definitely! Air fryers circulate hot air, making them excellent for baking no oven cake quickly and evenly. Adjust temperature and timing based on cake size, but expect results similar to a traditional oven.

No Oven Cake: 7 Best Methods for Easy Baking

Ingredients

1½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup vegetable oil

1 cup whole milk (or any milk alternative)

2 large eggs

1½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice

A pinch of salt

Optional: 2 tbsp cocoa powder for chocolate version

Butter or oil for greasing the pan

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until fluffy. Add oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Sift the dry ingredients
In another bowl, sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder (if using).
Combine wet and dry
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Add vinegar or lemon juice last. Mix just until combined.
Grease your baking vessel
Grease a cake tin, ramekin, or microwave-safe bowl with oil or butter.
Choose your baking method
- Stovetop: Place a ring stand or thick plate in a large pot. Add 1 cup water. Place the cake tin on top, cover, and steam for 40–50 minutes on low heat.
- Microwave: Pour batter into a microwave-safe bowl. Cook on high for 6–8 minutes, checking after 5 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 320°F (160°C). Bake the cake in a lined tin for 25–30 minutes.

Cool and serve
Let the cake cool completely before removing it from the tin. Dust with powdered sugar or frost as desired.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense texture.
If using cocoa powder, reduce flour by 2 tbsp.
For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with yogurt.
Always preheat your air fryer or stovetop setup for even baking.

Author: Maya Bake
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes (stovetop) / 6–8 minutes (microwave) / 25 minutes (air fryer)
Category: Dessert
Method: No Oven (Stovetop, Microwave, Air Fryer)
Cuisine: Universal / American-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cake)
Calories: 275 kcal
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition

Join Us!