A sponge cake is a classic and versatile dessert that serves as the foundation for many delectable treats. Its light, airy texture and sweet flavour make it a delightful treat on its own or a perfect base for adding layers of cream, fruit, or icing. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to bake a delicious sponge cake that will surely impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Eggs and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and sugar together on medium-high speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract Mix in the pure vanilla extract until well combined. The vanilla adds a delightful aroma and flavour to the sponge cake.
Step 4: Sift the Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together. Sifting helps aerate the flour and prevents lumps, resulting in a lighter sponge cake.
Step 5: Fold in the Dry Ingredients Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the egg-sugar mixture. Gently fold them together using a spatula or a large metal spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cake to lose its lightness.
Step 6: Incorporate the Melted Butter Pour the melted and cooled unsalted butter into the batter. Gently fold it in until fully incorporated. The melted butter adds moisture and richness to the sponge cake.
Step 7: Divide the Batter Evenly divide the cake batter between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon or spatula to ensure an even rise.
Step 8: Bake the Sponge Cake Place the cake pans in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the cakes are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Assemble Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, gently turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Step 10: Add Your Favorite Toppings Once the sponge cakes are fully cooled, you can get creative with your toppings. Add a layer of whipped cream and fresh fruit, or frost the cake with your favourite icing for added sweetness.
Baking a delicious sponge cake is a delightful and rewarding experience. By following this step-by-step guide, you can achieve a light, fluffy, and flavorful sponge cake that will be a hit with your loved ones. Whether enjoyed on its own or dressed up with various toppings, your homemade sponge cake is sure to become a favourite treat for all occasions. Happy baking!