There’s something truly magical about a homemade sponge cake. Its light and airy texture makes it the perfect base for any celebration, whether it’s a birthday, tea party, or just a cozy afternoon treat with friends. This recipe is simple yet rewarding, and the best part is, you can customize it with your favorite flavors and toppings!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together using an electric mixer on high speed. Continue beating until the mixture becomes thick and pale, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This process incorporates air, essential for that fluffy sponge texture.
Once the egg mixture has reached the desired consistency, gently fold in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Take care not to deflate the batter too much; a light hand is key!
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually sift this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want to maintain that airy quality.
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top lightly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for maintaining the sponge’s lightness.
Serve your sponge cake plain, or dress it up with whipped cream, fresh fruits, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Each bite is a sweet reminder of the simple joys of baking and sharing delicious moments with loved ones.
Enjoy your delightful creation!