Dessert Vanilla Sponge Cake

Name: Dessert Vanilla Sponge Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup whole milk

Highlighted under: Baking Ideas | Pastry & Pies

I’ve always found comfort in baking, and this Dessert Vanilla Sponge Cake is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delightful. The soft texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a versatile base for any celebration. Whether you’re layering it with cream and berries for a special occasion or enjoying it with a cup of tea, every bite feels like a warm hug. This cake is a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share my tips for achieving the perfect, fluffy sponge.

Created by

Monicas

Last updated on 2026-02-03T20:41:27.936Z

Baking this Dessert Vanilla Sponge Cake was a delightful weekend project that brought back fond memories of my childhood. I remember the smell of vanilla wafting through the kitchen as my mother baked this cake for our family gatherings. I love how straightforward the process is, yet the result is impressive enough for any occasion. I like to incorporate a touch of milk to enhance the flavor and moisture.

What truly sets this sponge cake apart is the meticulous folding technique I learned over the years. By gently incorporating the egg whites into the batter, I ensure the cake rises beautifully and maintains its lightness. I also recommend using high-quality vanilla extract for a more pronounced flavor, transforming a simple dessert into something extraordinary!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and airy texture that melts-in-your-mouth
Versatile base for endless flavor pairings
Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to afternoon tea

Why Precision Matters

When baking a dessert like this vanilla sponge cake, precision in measuring your ingredients is crucial. For best results, use a kitchen scale to weigh your flour and sugar. This ensures that you're incorporating the right ratios for optimal texture and crumb structure. A common mistake is overpacking the flour, which can lead to a dense cake. Always spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.

Also, pay attention to the temperature of your eggs and butter. Room temperature eggs help to create a smoother batter and assist in the cake rising evenly. If you're short on time, you can place cold eggs in warm water for about 10 minutes to bring them to temperature quickly. Using melted butter, rather than softened, adds moisture and allows the sugar to dissolve seamlessly, creating that light, airy texture.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Rise

To give your cake the perfect rise, the folding technique is essential. When combining the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, use a gentle folding motion rather than stirring aggressively. This method helps retain the air created during whisking and contributes to that melt-in-your-mouth quality. Make sure to fold until just combined; a few streaks of flour are okay as over-mixing can lead to a tough sponge.

Additionally, ensure your oven is preheated correctly; an oven thermometer can be a worthwhile investment. Baking in a properly heated environment ensures that the cake rises consistently without collapsing. The cake should begin to pull away from the edges of the pan, which is a good indicator it’s ready to come out. If you find your cakes struggle to rise, check that your baking powder is fresh, as using expired leavening agents can impact the final product.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This vanilla sponge cake is incredibly versatile. For a simple yet stylish presentation, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or serve with a side of whipped cream and fresh berries. You can also layer it with your favorite cream and fruits to create a charming dessert that showcases its soft texture. If you're feeling adventurous, consider flavor variations like adding lemon zest for a citrus twist or folding in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.

If you have leftover cake, storing it properly is key to maintaining its freshness. Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices; just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to warm them up slightly.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your vanilla sponge cake:

Ingredients

4 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup whole milk

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your cake:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, being careful to maintain the airiness.

Incorporate Milk

Finally, gently mix in the milk until just combined. Do not overwork the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve plain or with your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your light and fluffy vanilla sponge cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider infusing the batter with lemon zest or almond extract. This adds a delightful twist that elevates your cake.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can experiment with alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free blends if you have dietary restrictions. Keep in mind that these substitutions will alter the texture; almond flour offers a denser cake, while gluten-free blends often require additional binding agents such as xanthan gum to achieve a similar rise.

If running low on eggs, consider using a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a substitute for one egg. This version retains moisture but may slightly change the texture of your sponge. Just mix the flaxseed and water, let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, and then include it in your batter.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to make a larger cake, this recipe can easily be doubled. Use two 9-inch round pans for a classic layered cake, or bake the batter in a larger pan for a sheet cake variation. Adjust the baking time accordingly, keeping an eye on the cake as it bakes; a larger volume may require an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven.

For smaller gatherings, you can halve the recipe and use a 6-inch round pan instead. Just remember to check for doneness earlier, as smaller cakes can bake faster. Regardless of size, always perform the toothpick test to ensure your cake is properly baked before removing it from the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day or two ahead. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute with cake flour for a lighter texture or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.

→ How can I make the cake more flavorful?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporate citrus zest to enhance the flavor.

→ What's the best way to store leftover cake?

Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for a few days.