Classic Sponge Cake: A Timeless Delight

A classic sponge cake is a versatile and delightful dessert that serves as a base for many other recipes,

from simple cakes to elaborate layer cakes and desserts. Its light and airy texture, combined with a

subtle sweetness, makes it perfect for pairing with fruits, creams, and syrups. Here’s a detailed recipe

to create a perfect sponge cake that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup (120 grams)

Cornstarch: 1/4 cup (30 grams)

Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon

Salt: 1/4 teaspoon

Eggs: 6 large, at room temperature

Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (200 grams)

Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon

Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (60 grams), melted and cooled

Milk: 1/4 cup (60 ml), at room temperature

Instructions:

Prepare the Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, then line the bottom

with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Beat Eggs and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer on high speed until thick and pale, about

5-7 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and

fluffy.

Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients:

Stir in the vanilla extract. Gently fold in the sifted dry ingredients in three additions, being careful not

to deflate the batter.

Incorporate Butter and Milk:

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and milk. Gently fold this mixture into the batter until just

incorporated.

Bake the Cake:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven

for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cake:

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve or Decorate:

Once cooled, the sponge cake can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or used as a base for

more elaborate desserts.

Tips for the Perfect Sponge Cake:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients, especially eggs, are at room

temperature to achieve the best texture.

Gentle Folding: Be gentle when folding in the dry ingredients to maintain the airiness of the batter.

Proper Baking Time: Do not open the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the

cake from collapsing.

Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely before slicing or decorating to prevent it from

crumbling.

Nutritional Benefits:

Eggs:

Rich in high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D, choline, and selenium.

Milk:

Provides calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.

Moderation:

While sponge cake is a treat, enjoying it in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

A classic sponge cake is a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. Its simplicity and versatility

make it a staple in any baker’s repertoire. Whether enjoyed on its own or as the foundation for more

complex desserts, this light and airy cake is sure to delight. Follow this recipe to create a perfect

sponge cake and enjoy its delightful taste and texture. Happy baking!