- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a rectangular cake pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Eggs:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs using an electric mixer until they become frothy.
- Add Sugar:
- Gradually add the sugar to the beaten eggs while continuing to beat. Beat until the mixture becomes thick and pale in color.
- Warm the Milk:
- In a small saucepan, warm the milk over low heat until it’s just about to simmer. Remove it from heat and add the honey, stirring to dissolve. Let it cool slightly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour and baking powder.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the egg and sugar mixture, folding gently until just combined.
- Add Milk Mixture:
- Slowly add the warm milk mixture to the batter, continuing to fold gently.
- Add Oil and Optional Vanilla:
- Add the vegetable oil (and vanilla extract if using), and gently fold until well combined.
- Pour into Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cooling:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once cooled, slice the Castella cake into squares or rectangles and serve.
This Castella cake is a delightful treat with a sweet and subtle flavor. It’s often enjoyed on its own or with a cup of tea. Feel free to experiment with additional flavorings or toppings according to your preferences. Enjoy!