Sponge cake is a delightful and airy dessert that brings a touch of sweetness to any occasion. With its light texture and subtle flavor, this cake is a favorite among both bakers and dessert lovers. Whether enjoyed with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or simply dusted with powdered sugar, sponge cake is a versatile treat that can brighten up any meal. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it a perfect choice for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
What You’ll Need for Sponge Cake
To whip up this delightful dessert, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 large eggs (about 200g)
- 1 cup sugar (200g)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
How to Make Sponge Cake
Follow these easy steps to create your own sponge cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes with a hand mixer or a stand mixer on medium speed.
- Gently fold in the flour using a spatula or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want to keep the air in the batter.
- Pour the batter into a prepared cake pan. Make sure the pan is greased and lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust it with powdered sugar before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Sponge cake is wonderful on its own, but there are so many ways to serve it. You can slice it into pieces and serve it with fresh berries and whipped cream for a classic treat. Another delightful option is to layer it with custard or your favorite fruit preserves. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider serving slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for that charming finishing touch!
Helpful Tricks for Sponge Cake
Here are a few tips to help you with your baking:
- Room temperature eggs work best for achieving that light, fluffy texture. If you forget to take them out of the fridge ahead of time, you can place them in warm water for about 10 minutes.
- Be gentle when folding in the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light sponge we aim for.
- Experiment with flavorings! Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a bit of lemon zest can elevate your sponge cake to new heights.
Sponge Cake FAQs
Can I add flavor to this sponge cake?
Yes! Vanilla extract, lemon zest, or almond extract can add delightful flavors to your sponge cake.
How do I store leftover sponge cake?
You can store leftover sponge cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I freeze sponge cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Give this sponge cake a try—it’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress your family and friends! Happy baking!