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 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Dessert Recipes

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it's a great recipe for both novice and experienced bakers.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:35:20.314Z

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is a classic dessert that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. Its soft texture and delightful vanilla flavor make it a favorite among cake lovers.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth
Simple ingredients you likely already have at home
Versatile base for your favorite frostings or fruit toppings
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or afternoon tea

      

The Perfect Cake for Any Occasion

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a visually appealing addition to any gathering. Its light and fluffy texture makes it an ideal base for layered cakes, making it perfect for birthdays or special celebrations. Whether you're planning a family gathering or simply want to enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress your guests.

Furthermore, the simplicity of this recipe allows for creativity in the kitchen. You can easily customize it with different flavors by adding citrus zest, spices, or even cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. The versatility of this sponge cake means that you can adapt it to suit any event, making it a staple recipe for your baking repertoire.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect rise and texture in your vanilla sponge cake, it’s crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when it comes to flour and sugar, as even slight variations can affect the final result. Also, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted; this will help to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a fluffier cake.

Another essential tip is to not overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture until just combined to maintain the cake's airy consistency. If you’re unsure, err on the side of under-mixing. Remember, the batter will continue to develop as it bakes, so a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake can be served plain or dressed up to suit your preferences. For a classic touch, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle it with a simple glaze. If you’re feeling indulgent, consider layering it with whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful dessert that’s as tasty as it is beautiful.

For those who love frosting, this sponge cake pairs beautifully with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even ganache. You can also experiment with fruit compotes or flavored syrups to add an extra layer of flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a unique dessert that caters to your taste and the occasion.

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 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 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 to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve plain or with your favorite frosting.

Enjoy your homemade vanilla sponge cake!

Storing Your Cake

If you have any leftover cake, storing it properly is essential to maintain its freshness. Place the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freezing them. This way, you can enjoy a slice of this delightful cake even weeks later, simply by thawing it at room temperature.

To keep your sponge cake moist, avoid direct sunlight and heat sources when storing. If you anticipate that the cake will be around for a few days, you might want to frost it closer to serving time to prevent the frosting from becoming stale.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is for a classic vanilla sponge cake, you can easily modify it to suit your flavor preferences. Consider adding a tablespoon of almond extract for a unique twist, or fold in some chocolate chips or dried fruits to elevate the taste. For a seasonal touch, you can infuse the batter with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.

Another fun idea is to create a layered cake using multiple flavors. Bake two or three different flavors of sponge cake, like red velvet or lemon, and stack them with alternating layers of frosting. This not only adds visual appeal but also allows your guests to enjoy a variety of flavors in one dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What frosting goes well with vanilla sponge cake?

Buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream are great choices for frosting this cake.