A light, airy, and delicate sponge cake is the perfect base for many desserts, from layered cakes to simple afternoon tea treats. This recipe provides a foolproof method to create a soft, fluffy sponge cake that’s guaranteed to impress. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be able to bake this classic treat in no time, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker. Light yet flavorful, this sponge cake will become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take about 5-7 minutes with an electric mixer on high speed. The mixture should form soft peaks and have a pale, thick texture.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix gently to incorporate.
- In a separate bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together to ensure even distribution and remove any lumps.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula. Do this slowly to preserve the airiness of the batter. You can also sift the flour mixture into the batter in increments to avoid deflating it.
- In a small saucepan or microwave, melt the butter with the milk until combined. Let it cool slightly.
- Carefully fold the melted butter and milk mixture into the batter, being cautious not to deflate the air bubbles.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any large air bubbles.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, you can frost or layer the sponge cake with your favorite fillings or enjoy it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Slice and serve, enjoying the soft, fluffy texture of your homemade sponge cake!
Conclusion:
Making a fluffy sponge cake is easier than you think, and this recipe ensures a perfect result every time. With simple ingredients and a few careful steps, you’ll be able to create a cake that’s light, airy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a standalone dessert or part of a larger cake, this sponge cake will delight anyone who tries it. Give this recipe a try and watch your baking skills soar!