This Classic Vanilla Sponge Cake is the epitome of simple elegance. With its light, airy texture and delicate vanilla flavor, this cake is perfect for those who appreciate the subtleties of a traditional sponge cake. Made with just a few basic ingredients, this cake serves as a versatile base for many desserts or can be enjoyed on its own with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Why You’ll Love This: This sponge cake is incredibly light and fluffy, thanks to the careful incorporation of air into the eggs and the gentle folding of the flour. The warmth of vanilla adds a comforting flavor that makes this cake a delightful treat at any time of the day. It’s not overly sweet, which makes it an excellent canvas for a variety of toppings or fillings depending on your preference.
Perfect Occasion: This cake is ideal for afternoon tea, birthdays, or any occasion that calls for a light dessert. It can be dressed up with whipped cream and fresh berries, layered with jam for a simple Victoria sponge cake, or used as the base for more elaborate desserts like trifles and layered cakes.
Decoration Tips: For a simple yet elegant presentation, sift powdered sugar over the top of the cake. To enhance its appearance and flavor, serve it with a side of whipped cream and fresh berries or a light drizzle of honey or chocolate ganache. For special occasions, you can frost the cake with buttercream or cream cheese frosting and decorate with edible flowers or fruit.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 80g sugar
- 90g cake flour
- 20g butter, melted
- 20g milk
Instructions:
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (338°F). Grease and line a 15cm (6in) round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Eggs and Sugar:
- Combine the eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar in a heatproof bowl. Place the bowl over a double boiler and warm the mixture to 40°C (104°F), stirring constantly. This process will help dissolve the sugar and incorporate air, which is essential for the sponge’s texture.
- Whisk to Incorporate Air:
- Once warmed, remove from heat and use an electric mixer to whisk the mixture until it is light, fluffy, and has tripled in volume.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Sift the cake flour into the egg mixture in two batches, folding gently after each addition to maintain the airiness.
- Mix the melted butter and milk in a small bowl. Take a small amount of the egg and flour mixture and mix it with the butter and milk to temper it.
- Gently fold the butter, milk, and tempered mixture back into the main batter until just combined.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cool, the cake can be decorated as desired or served as is.
Enjoy this Classic Vanilla Sponge Cake, a light and fluffy delight that brings simplicity and elegance to any table!
