Description
A classic vanilla sponge cake is a light, tender baked dessert renowned for its soft texture, balanced sweetness, and warm vanilla flavor. The defining characteristic of a true sponge cake is its delicate interior crumb, which manages to feel feather-light while retaining enough structural integrity to hold frostings, fruit jams, or rich cream fillings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk, room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch (20-cm) round cake pan with parchment paper. - Mix the dry ingredients:
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. - Cream the butter and sugar:
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy. - Add the eggs:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. - Combine:
Add the dry ingredients in two or three additions, alternating with the milk. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix. - Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - Cool:
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. - Serve:
Dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream and fresh berries. You can also use it as a base for a layered cake.
Notes
Make sure the eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and a lighter, more evenly textured cake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: ~300 kcal
Keywords: traditional vanilla sponge, easy vanilla cake, homemade sponge cake, simple vanilla cake