A fluffy sponge cake is one of those timeless recipes that every home baker should know. Soft, airy, and beautifully golden, this cake melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with fruit, whipped cream, or just a dusting of powdered sugar. Its simplicity is what makes it so special — no complicated ingredients, no heavy frostings, just pure, delicate sweetness.
Whether you’re baking it for afternoon tea, a family gathering, or a layered celebration cake, this recipe delivers the ultimate texture: light as air on the inside with a subtle golden crust. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a perfectly risen sponge cake every time.
Ingredients Overview
The beauty of a sponge cake lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to create that tender, cloud-like texture.
- 5 egg yolks – Add richness and color to the batter.
- 50 ml cooking oil – Keeps the cake moist and prevents dryness.
- 80 ml milk – Provides a light, creamy texture.
- A pinch of salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- 5 egg whites – The secret to that airy, fluffy structure.
- 80 g flour – The main structure of the cake; use cake flour if available for a finer crumb.
- 80 g sugar – Adds sweetness and helps stabilize the egg whites.
- 5 g vanilla extract – Infuses the cake with a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Hot water – Used in the water bath to ensure even baking.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 150°C (300°F). Sponge cakes rely on gentle, even heat to rise properly without collapsing, so avoid high temperatures.
Step 2: Warm the Milk and Oil
In a small saucepan, heat the milk and cooking oil over medium heat until tiny bubbles start to form. This helps emulsify the mixture and creates a smoother batter later on.
Step 3: Combine the Base Ingredients
Pour the warm milk and oil mixture into a large bowl. Add the flour and a pinch of salt, stirring well until you achieve a smooth, lump-free paste.
Next, mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined and the batter takes on a light yellow color. Set aside.
Step 4: Make the Meringue
In a separate, clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks begin to form. Gradually add the sugar, one spoonful at a time, and continue beating until you get a glossy, smooth meringue that holds its shape but is still soft.
Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of the meringue to the egg yolk mixture and gently fold to lighten it. Then, pour the egg yolk mixture into the remaining meringue. Using a spatula, fold carefully from bottom to top in smooth, gentle motions to avoid deflating the air bubbles.
You’ll know it’s ready when the batter looks uniform, smooth, and airy.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a square mold with parchment paper, leaving about 5 cm of extra paper hanging on each side — this makes it easier to lift the cake out after baking. Pour the batter into the mold and tap it gently to remove any large air bubbles.
Step 7: Create a Water Bath
Place the cake mold on a large baking tray and pour hot water into the tray (not into the cake mold) until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake pan. This method ensures the cake bakes evenly and retains its moisture.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cake at 150°C (300°F) for 30 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 130°C (260°F) and continue baking for another 30 minutes.
The slow baking process gives the sponge its signature airy texture and prevents it from cracking.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly before lifting it out using the parchment paper. Slice with a clean, sharp knife and serve plain or with your favorite toppings.
Tips for a Perfect Fluffy Sponge Cake
- Use room-temperature eggs – Cold eggs don’t whip as well, so let them sit out for at least 20 minutes before baking.
- Fold gently – Overmixing the batter can knock out the air and make the cake dense.
- Use a clean, dry bowl for egg whites – Any trace of oil or water can prevent your meringue from forming properly.
- Don’t open the oven too soon – Sudden temperature changes can cause the cake to collapse.
- Test for doneness – Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Serving Suggestions
This fluffy sponge cake can be enjoyed in countless ways:
- Classic and simple – Sprinkle with powdered sugar or serve plain with tea.
- With fruits – Pair with strawberries, peaches, or mango slices for a refreshing twist.
- With cream – Top with whipped cream or buttercream for an elegant dessert.
- As a base for layered cakes – Use it to create birthday or celebration cakes by adding fillings like chocolate ganache, jam, or custard.
Its neutral flavor and light texture make it a versatile dessert foundation that complements any flavor combination.
Storage Instructions
To keep the cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay soft for up to three days at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to five days, but always let it come back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
If you want to freeze it, slice the cake and wrap each piece individually. It will last for up to two months in the freezer.
FAQs
1. Why did my sponge cake sink in the middle?
This usually happens if the oven door is opened too early or if the batter was overmixed, causing the air to escape.
2. Can I use butter instead of oil?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly denser. Oil makes the cake lighter and keeps it moist longer.
3. How can I make the cake more flavorful?
Add lemon zest, almond extract, or a hint of rum essence to the batter for extra aroma and taste.
4. Do I need to use a water bath?
Yes, a water bath ensures even heat distribution and prevents the cake from drying out or cracking.
5. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
You can, but it will make the cake denser. For a light texture, stick with all-purpose or cake flour.
6. How do I keep the cake from sticking to the pan?
Use parchment paper and make sure to leave extra paper on the sides. It helps lift the cake easily without damage.
Conclusion
The fluffy sponge cake is a timeless classic that embodies simplicity and perfection. With just a few ingredients and careful mixing, you can create a dessert that’s incredibly light, soft, and elegant. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings, this cake never fails to impress.
It’s the perfect foundation for endless dessert creations or a delightful treat on its own. Once you master this recipe, you’ll have a go-to cake that’s sure to become a favorite for every occasion.