Castella Cake Recipe -

Castella cake, a traditional Japanese sponge cake, is renowned for its light, fluffy texture and delightful sweetness. This cake has become a favorite for many, both for its taste and its simple yet elegant appearance. Made from just a few ingredients, this recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating your own Castella cake at home, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat fresh from your kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Castella cake recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With minimal ingredients and an uncomplicated preparation method, it’s an excellent choice for novice bakers as well as seasoned chefs. The cake’s soft, fluffy texture and sweet honey flavor make it an ideal dessert for any occasion — from afternoon tea to birthday celebrations. Plus, its impressive rise and golden-brown crust give it an artisanal feel, making it a show-stopping addition to your dessert table.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Castella cake:

1 cup (130g) bread flour or cake flour, sifted
6 large eggs, at room temperature
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (60ml) honey
2 tablespoons (30ml) warm milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and grease and line a 9×5 inch loaf pan or an 8×8 square pan with parchment paper. The parchment helps prevent sticking and ensures easy removal of the cake once baked.

Step 2: In a small bowl, warm the honey and milk together until combined. Set aside to cool slightly. This mixture will help keep the cake moist and add a beautiful sweetness.

Step 3: Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat the eggs on high speed with the granulated sugar for about 8 to 10 minutes. The mixture should become thick, pale, and triple in volume. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, giving the cake its signature fluffiness.

Step 4: Once the egg mixture has reached the desired consistency, add the honey-milk mixture and vanilla extract (if using). Beat for an additional 30 seconds to fully incorporate these ingredients.

Step 5: Sift the flour into the egg mixture in three separate additions. After each addition, use a spatula to gently fold the flour in. Be careful to maintain the airiness of the batter, as over-mixing can deflate it.

Step 6: Pour the batter through a fine sieve into your prepared pan. This will help to remove any lumps or bubbles, ensuring a smooth texture in the finished cake. Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any large air bubbles that may have formed.

Step 7: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The cake should be golden brown on top, and a skewer inserted into the center should come out clean. Important: Do not open the oven door during the first 30 minutes of baking, as this could cause the cake to sink.

Step 8: Once baked, carefully remove the cake from the oven. Immediately drop the pan gently once on the counter to prevent shrinkage. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Step 9: While the cake is still warm, wrap it with parchment paper and plastic wrap to retain moisture. Allow the cake to cool completely in the wrap for several hours or overnight. This resting period will enhance the cake’s texture and flavor.

Step 10: When you are ready to serve, carefully trim the edges of the cake for a neat appearance, and slice as desired. Enjoy your homemade Castella cake plain or with fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pro Tips for Making Castella Cake

Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better volume when whisked.
Always sift your flour to prevent clumps and ensure a light cake.
Do not skip the cooling process. Letting the cake rest helps improve its final texture.
Be patient while mixing; sufficient aeration is crucial for the cake’s fluffiness.
Feel free to experiment with flavors, adding citrus zest or matcha powder for different variations.

FAQs

How long does Castella cake last?

Castella cake can be stored at room temperature, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make Castella cake without honey?

Yes, you can substitute honey with equal parts of sugar or maple syrup. However, using honey adds a unique moisture and flavor profile.

Why does my Castella cake sink?

A sinking cake is usually due to underbaking, too much mixing, or opening the oven door too early during baking. Ensure you follow the recipe closely.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but bread flour contributes to a slightly denser and chewier texture, typical of traditional Castella cake.

How can I serve Castella cake?

Castella cake is delicious on its own, but can also be served with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or drizzles of chocolate or caramel sauce for added flavor.

Conclusion

This Castella cake recipe is not just easy to follow; it captures the essence of Japanese baking with its cloud-like texture and subtle sweetness. Whether you are enjoying it with a cup of tea or presenting it at a gathering, this delightful cake is sure to impress. Give it a try, and indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade Castella cake!