Introduction:
A sponge cake, with its light and airy texture, is a timeless dessert that never fails to delight the taste buds. This classic sponge cake recipe is a tried-and-true method for achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and fluffiness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of creating a sponge cake that is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
Before you embark on your sponge cake journey, gather the following ingredients:
- Four large eggs at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- One teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/2 cup whole milk at room temperature
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring an easy release of the sponge cakes.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures a smooth and lump-free batter, contributing to the cake’s light texture.
- Beat the Eggs:
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the eggs at medium-high speed until they become thick and pale. This process may take about 5 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla Extract:
- Gradually add the granulated sugar to the beaten eggs, continuing to beat until the mixture is well combined. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the egg mixture in three separate additions. Use a spatula to fold, ensuring the incorporation of the dry ingredients without deflating the batter.
- Add Melted Butter:
- Once the dry ingredients are fully incorporated, add the melted and cooled unsalted butter to the batter. Again, gently fold until the butter is well combined.
- Pour in Milk:
- Pour the room-temperature milk into the batter, folding gently until smooth and homogeneous. Be cautious not to overmix to maintain the airy texture of the sponge cake.
- Divide and Pour Batter:
- Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans, spreading it evenly. Tap the pans on the counter to eliminate any air bubbles.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cakes to avoid over-baking.
- Cool and Frost (Optional):
- Allow the sponge cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can frost and decorate the cakes as desired.
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You’ve successfully created a classic sponge cake that is light, fluffy, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether served on its own or adorned with your favorite frosting, this versatile sponge cake is a testament to the joy of baking. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and share the delight with friends and family. Happy baking!
