Sponge cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the Pan: Grease an 8- or 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Beat the Eggs and Sugar

  1. Whip Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the eggs and sugar.
  2. Mix Until Fluffy: Use an electric mixer on high speed to beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy. This will take about 5-7 minutes. The volume should triple, and the mixture should have a thick ribbon-like consistency.

Step 3: Sift the Dry Ingredients

  1. Combine Flour, Baking Powder, and Salt: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture.

Step 4: Fold in the Dry Ingredients

  1. Gently Fold: Carefully fold the sifted dry ingredients into the egg mixture in batches. Use a spatula and gently fold in the flour to avoid deflating the batter. Be careful not to overmix.
  2. Add Warm Milk and Vanilla: Gradually add the warm milk and vanilla extract, folding gently until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Sponge Cake

  1. Pour and Smooth: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  2. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
  3. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then gently turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Perfect Sponge Cake

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs whip up better when at room temperature, giving you the airy structure you need for sponge cake.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing will deflate the batter, so fold ingredients carefully to keep the cake light and airy.
  • Use Warm Milk: Warm milk helps to keep the cake moist and provides a slightly richer texture.

Serving Suggestions

  • Simple Dusting: Dust with powdered sugar and serve as-is for a light, elegant dessert.
  • Fruity Delight: Top with whipped cream and fresh berries or sliced fruit for a fresh twist.
  • Layered Cake: Slice the sponge in half horizontally and fill it with jam, cream, or custard for a layered cake.

Final Thoughts

This classic sponge cake recipe creates a light, fluffy cake perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you’ll have a versatile cake that’s delicious on its own or as the base for many creative desserts.

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