A light, airy, and fluffy sponge cake is the foundation of countless desserts. From birthday cakes to layered creations filled with cream and fruit, mastering the perfect sponge cake recipe will give you endless possibilities in the kitchen. While sponge cakes might seem intimidating, the secret lies in a few simple techniques. Follow these steps and you’ll achieve a golden, tender cake every time.
🎂 Why You’ll Love This Sponge Cake
Simple ingredients – just eggs, sugar, flour, and butter.
No fancy tools – a hand mixer or whisk works.
Versatile base – serve plain, dust with powdered sugar, or layer with fillings.
Always reliable – light, fluffy, and delicious.
🥚 Ingredients (for one 8-inch cake)
4 large eggs (room temperature)
200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
200 g (1 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour (sifted)
1 tsp baking powder
100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pan & Oven
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. Whip the Eggs & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar together until pale, thick, and doubled in volume.
This step is crucial – the air you incorporate here makes the sponge light and fluffy.
3. Fold in Dry Ingredients
Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together.
Gently fold into the egg mixture with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the batter.
4. Add Butter & Vanilla
Mix melted butter and vanilla together.
Gently fold into the batter until just combined.
5. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool
Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
Turn out onto a wire rack and let cool completely before slicing or decorating.
🌟 Tips for the Perfect Sponge Cake
Room-temperature eggs whip better and trap more air.
Don’t overmix – fold gently to keep the batter airy.
Sift flour for a smooth, lump-free texture.
Avoid opening the oven during baking – sudden temperature changes can deflate the cake.
Cool upside down (optional) on a rack to maintain height.
🍓 Delicious Variations
Lemon Sponge Cake: Add 1 tbsp lemon zest and swap vanilla for lemon juice.
Chocolate Sponge Cake: Replace 30 g of flour with cocoa powder.
Coffee Sponge Cake: Stir 1 tbsp instant coffee dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water into the batter.
Layered Sponge Cake: Slice in half and fill with whipped cream, jam, or fresh fruit.
🎉 Serving Ideas
Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
Spread with buttercream or ganache for a party cake.
Top with fresh berries and whipped cream for a light dessert.
Use as a base for trifles or layered cakes.
Conclusion
With these simple steps, you can achieve a perfect sponge cake recipe every time—light, fluffy, and versatile. Once you master this basic recipe, you’ll have the foundation for endless desserts. From classic layered cakes to elegant fruit-topped creations, the sponge cake is a timeless favorite that never disappoints.