Baking a cake without an oven is easy and can be done using common kitchen tools like a stovetop or pressure cooker. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
1.5 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter or oil
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs (or 1/2 cup yogurt for eggless)
1.5 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
Large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep pan with a lid (like a pressure cooker or Dutch oven)
Wire rack, stand, or a layer of salt/sand for heat distribution
Baking pan (that fits inside the pot)
Parchment paper or butter for greasing
Step-by-Step Process
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream butter and sugar: In another bowl, beat the butter (or oil) and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add wet ingredients: Add eggs (or yogurt) and vanilla extract, and mix well. Gradually add the milk.
Combine: Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth. Avoid overmixing.
2. Prepare the Baking Setup
Heat the pot: Place a thick layer of salt or sand at the bottom of the pot. Alternatively, place a wire rack or metal stand to prevent direct heat on the baking pan. Preheat the pot on medium heat for 10 minutes with the lid on.
Prepare the baking pan: Grease the pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan, filling it only halfway to allow room for the cake to rise.
3. Cook the Cake
Place the pan in the pot: Carefully place the pan on the stand or over the salt/sand layer.
Cover the pot: If using a pressure cooker, remove the whistle and gasket from the lid to avoid building pressure.
Cook on low heat: Bake the cake for 35-50 minutes. Check after 35 minutes by inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
4. Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then gently remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Decorate with frosting, powdered sugar, or fruit as desired.
Tips for Success
Consistent heat: Keep the flame low to avoid burning the cake.
Test for doneness: Always check with a toothpick or skewer to ensure the cake is cooked through.
Use a heavy-bottomed pot: This ensures even heat distribution for better baking results.