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; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. It's simple to make and deliciously versatile!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:07:20.279Z

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is a classic dessert that brings a smile to everyone’s face. Its fluffy texture and delightful vanilla flavor make it a favorite for birthdays, tea parties, or just a sweet treat at home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Simple and quick to prepare
Fluffy texture with a rich vanilla flavor
Perfect base for layered cakes or served plain

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is an exceptional choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake fits the bill. Its light and airy texture makes it easy to pair with various toppings, from fresh fruits to rich chocolate ganache or creamy frosting.

One of the best aspects of this cake is its versatility. It can be served plain for a delightful afternoon snack, or you can dress it up for special celebrations. With its neutral flavor, it complements a wide range of flavors, making it an ideal base for layered cakes or even trifles.

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the perfect rise and fluffy texture, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This allows for better incorporation of air during the creaming process, which is essential for a light sponge. Similarly, room temperature eggs will blend more easily into the batter, contributing to a uniform texture.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix just until the flour is incorporated. Finally, ensure your oven is properly preheated; an accurately heated oven is crucial for even baking and achieving that perfect golden crust.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and cooled, you can store your Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for a longer period, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and freezing it. It can last for up to three months in the freezer, making it a convenient option for future celebrations or cravings.

When it's time to serve, consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant touch. Alternatively, layer it with whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful dessert that feels indulgent yet remains light. This cake is truly a blank canvas, allowing you to get creative with your presentations!

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp 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 a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, you can frost or serve the cake as desired.

Variations to Try

While this Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. For a chocolate version, simply substitute a portion of the flour with cocoa powder. This will give you a rich chocolate sponge that pairs beautifully with chocolate or vanilla frosting.

For a citrus twist, consider adding zest from lemons or oranges to the batter. This will infuse your cake with a refreshing flavor, making it perfect for summer gatherings. You can also replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a different aromatic profile that adds warmth and depth.

Pairing Ideas

This sponge cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. The light flavors of the cake complement the richness of a good cup of coffee, while a floral tea can enhance the vanilla notes beautifully.

For dessert, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, also make great accompaniments, adding a splash of color and a burst of flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture.

→ How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it wrapped in plastic wrap.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or can be layered with jam and frosting.