Simple Vanilla Sponge Cake

Simple Vanilla Sponge Cake

Introduction:

A vanilla sponge cake is a timeless, versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for various other creations. Light, fluffy, and subtly sweet, this cake is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family gathering or a special celebration. With its airy texture and mild vanilla flavor, this sponge cake is both comforting and elegant. Topped with powdered sugar or whipped cream, it makes for a delightful treat with tea or coffee. It’s also a great option for layering with fruit, jam, or frosting. Let’s dive into the process of making this classic dessert!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan with butter and lightly flour it, or line the bottom with parchment paper. This will ensure the cake doesn’t stick during baking and helps achieve a clean release.

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2. Beat the Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. The eggs should double in volume and form a ribbon-like consistency when you lift the beaters.

3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Gently mix in the vanilla extract. Once combined, pour in the melted butter, being careful not to deflate the air you’ve incorporated into the batter. Stir until just combined.

4. Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are well combined and helps prevent clumping. Gently fold the sifted flour mixture into the egg mixture, using a spatula. Do this in stages to maintain the airiness of the batter.

5. Pour the Batter into the Pan: Once the dry ingredients are fully incorporated, pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top gently with a spatula.

6. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. The cake should also be golden brown on top and spring back lightly when touched.

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7. Cool the Cake: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully remove the cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Serve and Enjoy: After the cake has cooled, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can serve it as is, or pair it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or your favorite frosting.

Conclusion: This simple vanilla sponge cake is perfect for any occasion, thanks to its soft and delicate texture. Whether enjoyed plain with a dusting of powdered sugar or dressed up with frosting and fruit, it’s sure to be a hit. It’s a great starting point for many variations—use it as a base for layer cakes or as a light snack on its own. Its subtle vanilla flavor pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of toppings, making it a versatile and timeless treat. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy the light and fluffy goodness of this homemade sponge cake!