Description
Sponge Cake is a light, airy, and versatile dessert with a delicate texture that melts in your mouth. It’s a simple, classic cake that can be served as-is or dressed up with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or frosting. A perfect base for many desserts or enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
4 large eggs, separated
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/4 cup warm water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and thick, about 3-4 minutes. Add vanilla extract and warm water, whisking until smooth.
- In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar and a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. The egg whites should hold their shape but still be smooth.
- Gently fold about one-third of the whipped egg whites into the egg yolk mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites, making sure not to deflate the batter.
- Sift the flour over the batter and fold it in gently, being careful not to over-mix. The batter should remain light and airy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick comes out clean. The cake should rise and spring back when lightly pressed.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve the cake as-is with a dusting of powdered sugar or layer with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or frosting for extra flavor.
Notes
Add citrus zest (like lemon or orange) to the batter for a fresh twist.
Layer with jam between the cake layers for a fruity burst of flavor.
Infuse the cake with coffee or tea for a subtle, aromatic flavor.
Soak the cake with flavored syrup (like chocolate or vanilla) for added moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg