Don’t have an oven or microwave? No problem. You can still enjoy soft, fluffy, homemade cake using alternative cooking methods like stovetop steaming or pan baking.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make a cake without any oven or microwave—just using a stovetop, steamer, or even a rice cooker. Let’s get baking!
Why Bake Without an Oven or Microwave?
- Ideal for small kitchens or off-grid setups
- Perfect for students, travelers, or minimalist bakers
- Uses basic tools you already have
- Still results in a moist, tender cake
Best Alternative Cooking Methods
- Stovetop in a Pot – Create an oven-like environment using a large lidded pot
- Steamer Method – Great for sponge-style cakes (extra soft!)
- Rice Cooker – Simple “set it and forget it” method
- Nonstick Pan with Lid – Great for low-profile cakes and snacking
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy pot with lid (or steamer)
- A metal rack or stand (to raise the cake tin)
- Oven-safe bowl or cake tin
- Whisk, spoon, and mixing bowls
- Heat-resistant gloves or tongs
Basic Steamed Vanilla Cake Recipe (No Oven, No Microwave)
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup yogurt or milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup oil
- 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Steam the Cake on the Stovetop
1. Prep the steaming setup
- Place a metal rack or ring at the bottom of a large pot
- Add 2–3 inches of water
- Cover and heat until the water simmers
2. Mix the cake batter
- In a bowl, mix all wet ingredients
- Sift in dry ingredients and stir gently until smooth
3. Pour into a greased cake tin or heatproof bowl
- Cover the top with foil or a lid to prevent moisture drops
4. Steam
- Place inside the pot carefully
- Cover and steam for 35–45 minutes on low heat
- Avoid opening too often—check with a toothpick at the 30-minute mark
Tips for Great Results
- Don’t let the water touch the cake tin—keep it elevated
- Cover tightly to retain steam and cook evenly
- Let the cake rest 10–15 minutes before removing from the pot
- Use a cloth-wrapped lid to avoid dripping condensation
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Steamed Cake – Add ¼ cup cocoa powder + 2 tbsp more milk
- Lemon Cake – Use lemon juice and zest for a citrusy twist
- Berry Cake – Add chopped strawberries or blueberries to the batter
- Coconut Cake – Use coconut milk and shredded coconut
Serving and Storage
- Serve warm with jam, glaze, or fruit
- Store at room temp (covered) for 2 days
- Refrigerate for 4–5 days
- Reheat by steaming or in a dry pan
Cake Without an Oven? Totally Doable!
Baking without an oven or microwave doesn’t mean giving up on delicious cake. With a little creativity and the right setup, you can make soft, fluffy, flavorful cakes—right on the stove or steamer.
So grab your pot, mix your batter, and get ready to steam up something sweet!
