Classic Sponge Cake: A Timeless Delight
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup (120 grams)
Cornstarch: 1/4 cup (30 grams
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Eggs: 6 large, at room temperature
Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (200 grams)
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (60 grams), melted and cooled
Milk: 1/4 cup (60 ml), at room temperature
Instructions:
Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, then line the bottom
with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Beat Eggs and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer on high speed until thick and pale, about
5-7 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and
fluffy.
Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients:
Stir in the vanilla extract. Gently fold in the sifted dry ingredients in three additions, being careful no
to deflate the batter.
Incorporate Butter and Milk:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and milk. Gently fold this mixture into the batter until just
incorporated.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven
for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve or Decorate:
Once cooled, the sponge cake can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or used as a base for
more elaborate desserts.
Tips for the Perfect Sponge Cake:
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients, especially eggs, are at room
temperature to achieve the best texture.
Gentle Folding: Be gentle when folding in the dry ingredients to maintain the airiness of the batter.
Proper Baking Time: Do not open the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the
cake from collapsing.
Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely before slicing or decorating to prevent it from
crumbling.
Nutritional Benefits:
Eggs:
Rich in high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D, choline, and selenium.
Milk:
Provides calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.
Moderation:
While sponge cake is a treat, enjoying it in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
A classic sponge cake is a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. Its simplicity and versatility
make it a staple in any baker’s repertoire. Whether enjoyed on its own or as the foundation for more
complex desserts, this light and airy cake is sure to delight. Follow this recipe to create a perfect
sponge cake and enjoy its delightful taste and texture. Happy baking