Soft and Fluffy Sponge Cake
Gather the following ingredients to make your sponge cake:
- 6 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup cake flour (sifted)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or white vinegar (optional, helps stabilize egg whites)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve the perfect sponge cake:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare an 8 or 9-inch round cake pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper—do not grease the sides.
- Step 2: Separate the egg whites into a large bowl and the yolks into another.
- Step 3: In the yolks’ bowl, beat the egg yolks and 1/2 cup of sugar until pale and thick (about 2-3 minutes). Add warm milk, oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Step 4: Gradually fold in the sifted cake flour until fully incorporated and set aside.
- Step 5: In the egg whites bowl, add lemon juice or vinegar. Beat until foamy, then gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup sugar while beating until stiff peaks form (but not dry).
- Step 6: Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk batter in three parts, ensuring you don’t deflate the mixture.
- Step 7: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and tap it gently on the counter to remove air bubbles. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and springs back when touched.
- Step 8: Once baked, turn the cake upside down onto a wire rack with the pan still on to cool completely, preventing shrinkage.
- Step 9: Once cool, run a thin knife around the edge of the pan and remove the cake.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the cake flour with all-purpose flour?
Yes, but using cake flour is recommended for a lighter texture.
2. How can I make sure my egg whites whip to stiff peaks?
Ensure that no yolk gets into the whites, and make sure your bowl and beaters are clean and dry.
3. What can I add to flavor the sponge cake?
You can add zests, extracts, or spices depending on your preference, such as lemon zest or almond extract.
4. How do I store the sponge cake?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. You can freeze it for longer storage.
5. Can I use this sponge cake for layered cakes?
Absolutely! This sponge cake’s light and fluffy texture makes it perfect for layering with frosting or fruits.
Conclusion
This soft and fluffy sponge cake is a timeless recipe that you can tailor to suit your tastes or occasions. Whether served plain, or adorned with cream and berries, it’s sure to please! Try this recipe today and delight in the lightness and simplicity that it brings to your desserts.
