Indulge in a Delightful Afternoon Treat: Classic Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe
Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with sweetness and satisfaction? Look no further than this simple yet scrumptious recipe for a classic vanilla sponge cake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this timeless treat is sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the world of baking bliss!
Ingredients:
Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need to create this delectable vanilla sponge cake:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 and 3/4 cup (220g) |
| Baking powder | 1 and 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (115g), softened to room temperature |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup (200g) |
| Large eggs | 3, room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
| Whole milk | 1/2 cup (120ml) |
Directions:
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making the perfect vanilla sponge cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan by greasing and flouring it, or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can decorate the cake with powdered sugar, frosting, or enjoy it plain.
- Slice and Enjoy: Cut the vanilla sponge cake into slices and serve alongside your favorite hot beverage, such as tea or coffee. Indulge in the moist and fluffy goodness of this classic treat, and savor every bite!
Tips for Success:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing and texture.
- Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Feel free to customize your cake by adding lemon zest, almond extract, or other flavorings to the batter.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer shelf life.