Here’s a light and fluffy Sponge Cake recipe that’s perfect for layering, rolling (like Swiss rolls), or enjoying on its own. This classic cake relies on whipped eggs for airiness and has a delicate crumb.
Classic Sponge Cake
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 25-30 mins | Total Time: 40 mins + cooling
Servings: 8-10
Ingredients:
4 large eggs, room temperature
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup (120g) cake flour (or all-purpose flour + 2 tbsp cornstarch, sifted together)
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted & cooled
2 tbsp milk, room temperature
Optional:
Zest of 1 lemon or orange (for flavor variation)
Instructions:
- Prep:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line the bottom of an 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan with parchment paper (do not grease the sides).
- Whip Eggs & Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar with a mixer on high speed for 5-7 minutes until pale, thick, and tripled in volume (ribbon stage: when the beaters leave a trail that holds for a few seconds).
Add vanilla (and zest if using) and mix gently.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients:
Sift flour, baking powder, and salt over the egg mixture in 3 batches.
Gently fold with a spatula (no overmixing!) until just combined.
Drizzle in melted butter and milk, folding lightly to retain air.
- Bake:
Pour batter into the prepared pan and tap lightly to release bubbles.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and the top springs back when touched.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success:
✅ Room-temperature eggs whip better for maximum volume.
✅ No grease on pan sides helps the cake climb and rise evenly.
✅ Fold gently to avoid deflating the batter.
✅ Check doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean.
Variations:
Lemon Sponge Cake: Add zest of 1 lemon + 1 tbsp lemon juice to the batter.
Chocolate Sponge Cake: Replace 2 tbsp flour with cocoa powder.
Genoise: Add 2 tbsp melted butter for a richer texture.
Serve with whipped cream, fresh berries, or jam—or use for layered cakes like strawberry shortcake!
Would you like a flourless sponge cake or a Japanese cotton sponge version? Let me know! 😊
