How to Make Sponge Cake: A Simple and Fluffy Recipe

Sponge cake is a classic dessert loved for its light, airy texture and versatility. Whether you're making a basic sponge cake recipe, a vanilla sponge cake, or even a chocolate sponge cake, mastering this staple will open up a world of baking possibilities.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through an easy sponge cake recipe that delivers a perfectly soft and fluffy cake every time.

What is Sponge Cake?

A sponge cake is a light, fluffy cake made with eggs, sugar, and flour, often without added fat like butter or oil. The key to a great sponge cake recipe is properly beating the eggs to create structure and volume.

Sponge cake makes a fantastic base for a variety of desserts, thanks to its light and airy texture. It pairs especially well with rich and tangy fillings like lemon curd, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy zing. If you're looking for inspiration, try using it as the foundation for a lemon curd cake - layering the delicate sponge with velvety lemon curd and perhaps even a touch of whipped cream for an irresistible treat!

Ingredients for a Basic Sponge Cake

To make a simple sponge cake recipe, you'll need:

• 6 eggs

• 6 tablespoons sugar

• 6 tablespoons flour

This basic sponge cake recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted for different flavors, including vanilla sponge cake, lemon sponge cake, and chocolate sponge cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This is a completely basic sponge cake that can be used universally as a cake base or flavored with additional ingredients.

For example, if you want a chocolate sponge cake, replace 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder.

Sponge cake is quite similar to ladyfingers, which you might have seen in another post. To achieve the perfect texture, it requires an airy base, the right amount of sugar, and flawless baking. When done properly, it’s absolutely irresistible!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).

Step 2: Separate and Beat the Eggs

Separate the eggs, placing the egg whites in one bowl and the yolks in another. Start beating the egg whites until they form soft peaks.

Pro Tip: Make sure no egg yolk gets into the whites, as even a tiny amount of yolk can prevent them from whipping properly.

Step 3: Check for Stiff Peaks

You'll know the egg whites are ready when they form stiff peaks. A simple test: turn the bowl upside down - if the whites stay in place, they’re perfect!

Be careful trying! :)

Step 4: Add Sugar in Two Parts

Once the egg whites are almost fully whipped, gradually add half of the sugar while continuing to beat.

In a separate bowl, mix the remaining sugar with the egg yolks and whisk until pale and slightly fluffy.

Step 5: Fold the Yolks into the Whites

Gently fold the yolk mixture into the whipped egg whites using a silicone spatula (in my opinion that works best in the kitchen). Use slow folding motions to avoid deflating the mixture.

Do not overmix, as the air in the egg whites is crucial for a light and fluffy sponge.

Step 6: Fold in the Flour

Sift the flour in three additions, folding gently after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep it airy and light.

Step 7: Bake the Sponge Cake

Line a baking pan with parchment paper and pour in the batter.

Bake in the preheated oven, checking for doneness with a toothpick. Insert the toothpick into the center - if it comes out clean, your sponge cake is ready!

Tips for the Perfect Sponge Cake

• Use fresh eggs: They whip up better and provide more structure.

• Do not overmix: Gentle folding keeps the cake light and airy.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures an even batter consistency.

Sponge cake is a fantastic base for countless desserts, and with this recipe, you can experiment with different flavors and toppings to create your perfect cake!

Other recipes that might interest you:

How to Make Homemade Ladyfingers (Savoiardi) 

Easy Lemon Tiramisu Recipe: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic

The Ultimate Guide to Lemon Curd: Tangy, Sweet, and Irresistible