Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake

Name: Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, it's a delightful treat for both novice and experienced bakers.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:50:21.213Z

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake recipe has been a family favorite for generations. Its versatility allows it to be served plain, with whipped cream, or as a base for layered cakes. Whether it's a birthday or a simple afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Subtle vanilla flavor that pairs well with any topping
Perfect base for creating layered cakes or trifles

      

The Perfect Cake for Any Occasion

Whether you are celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is an excellent choice. Its light and airy texture makes it a delightful dessert that everyone will love. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can whip it up on short notice, making it a go-to recipe for any last-minute gatherings.

This cake can stand alone as a sweet treat, but it also serves as a fantastic base for more elaborate desserts. Layer it with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or your favorite frosting to create a stunning layered cake. The versatility of this vanilla sponge cake means that it can be dressed up or down, fitting perfectly into any dessert table setting.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with this vanilla sponge cake, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and contributes to the cake's fluffy texture. Additionally, don’t over-mix when combining the dry and wet ingredients; gently folding them together will help maintain the airiness of the batter, resulting in a light cake.

Another key tip is to use a good quality vanilla extract. The flavor of vanilla is subtle but essential in this cake, enhancing the overall taste. You can even experiment with different types of vanilla, such as Madagascar or Tahitian, to give your sponge a unique twist.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake has cooled, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last for up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw it at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy it again.

When serving, consider dusting the top with powdered sugar for a classic touch or drizzling it with chocolate ganache for a more indulgent experience. Fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries also complement the cake beautifully, adding a burst of color and flavor. No matter how you choose to serve it, this vanilla sponge cake is sure to impress!

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

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

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Beat the Eggs and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy.

Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until no lumps remain.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake with your favorite toppings!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can! Using cake flour will result in an even lighter and softer texture. Just remember to adjust your measurements accordingly, as cake flour is typically lighter than all-purpose flour.

What can I substitute if I don’t have eggs? For an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixed with water. Keep in mind that these substitutes may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cake, but they can still yield delicious results.

Variations to Try

If you want to add a twist to your vanilla sponge cake, consider incorporating lemon or almond extract in place of some of the vanilla. This will give your cake a unique flavor profile without compromising its light and fluffy texture.

You can also add a layer of jam or fruit puree between cake layers for added flavor and moisture. Try strawberry, raspberry, or even a citrus curd to elevate your dessert experience further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different size pan?

Yes, you can use a different size pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can add citrus zest, spices like cinnamon, or even chocolate chips for a unique twist.