Excellent choice! The Victoria Sandwich Cake (also called Victoria Sponge Cake) is a timeless British classic named after Queen Victoria, who loved a slice with her afternoon tea. It’s light, fluffy, and filled with jam and cream – simple yet elegant. Here’s the detailed recipe:
Table of Contents
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Classic Victoria Sandwich Cake
Ingredients
For the Sponge:
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (225 g) caster sugar (superfine sugar works best)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 cup (225 g) self-raising flour (or all-purpose flour + 2 tsp baking powder)
- 2 tbsp milk (if needed, to loosen batter)
For the Filling:
- ½ cup (150 g) strawberry or raspberry jam (traditional choice)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, whipped until soft peaks (or buttercream if preferred)
For Decoration:
- Icing sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven & Tins
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Make the Sponge Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract (if using).
- Gently fold in flour (sifted) using a spatula or spoon.
- If the batter is too thick, add 1–2 tbsp milk to achieve a soft dropping consistency.
3. Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cakes are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Place one sponge layer on a serving plate.
- Spread evenly with jam.
- Top with whipped cream (or buttercream if preferred).
- Place the second sponge on top.
- Dust the top generously with icing sugar.
5. Serve
- Slice and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee – just like Queen Victoria!
Tips & Variations
- Traditional Way: Use only jam (no cream) for the most classic version.
- Buttercream Option: Replace whipped cream with buttercream for a sturdier filling.
- Fruit Twist: Add fresh strawberries or raspberries along with the cream.
- Storage: Best eaten fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or in the fridge for 3 days. (If using fresh cream, refrigerate immediately).
✨ The Victoria Sandwich Cake is light, airy, and beautifully simple – the perfect centerpiece for afternoon tea or special occasions.
Would you like me to also share a modern twist version (like a chocolate Victoria sponge or lemon-curd-filled one)?