Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe (Soft & Fluffy Guide)

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  • April 4, 2026

📖 Introduction

Vanilla Sponge Cake is a timeless classic loved for its light texture and delicate flavor. This cake is soft, airy, and perfect as a base for layered cakes or simply enjoyed with tea. With the right technique, you can easily make a bakery-style sponge cake at home.

This detailed step-by-step guide ensures perfect results—even for beginners.

🧾 Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 140g granulated sugar
  • 130g cake flour
  • 20g milk (about 4 teaspoons)
  • 40g oil
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

 

 

 

➕ Optional Additions

  • Powdered sugar (for topping)
  • Fresh fruits (strawberries, berries)
  • Whipped cream
  • Lemon zest (for extra aroma)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

🔥 Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 170–180°C (340–350°F).
👉 Proper temperature helps the cake rise evenly.

🧈 Step 2: Prepare the Pan

  • Lightly grease your cake pan
  • Line the bottom with parchment paper

👉 This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.

🥚 Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugar

In a large bowl:

  • Add eggs and sugar

Beat for 8–10 minutes until:

  • Pale in color
  • Thick and fluffy
  • Tripled in volume

👉 This step is the key to a soft sponge cake.

🌾 Step 4: Add Flour

  • Sift the cake flour
  • Add it gradually to the egg mixture
  • Fold gently using a spatula

❌ Do not overmix
👉 Keeps the batter airy.

🥛 Step 5: Mix Milk and Oil

In a separate bowl:

  • Mix milk + oil + vanilla extract

Take a small portion of batter, mix into this liquid, then gently fold it back into the main batter.

👉 This helps combine everything without losing air.

🥣 Step 6: Pour the Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Tap lightly to remove large air bubbles.

🔥 Step 7: Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes

👉 Avoid opening the oven early

✔️ Insert a toothpick
If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

❄️ Step 8: Cooling

  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes
  • Transfer to a cooling rack

👉 Proper cooling prevents the cake from collapsing.

🍽️ Step 9: Serve

Slice and enjoy 😊
You can serve with:

  • Cream
  • Fruits
  • Syrup

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use room temperature eggs
  • Beat eggs properly for maximum volume
  • Fold gently to keep air inside
  • Do not overbake❓ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Why is my sponge cake dense?

Because eggs were not beaten enough or batter was overmixed.

2. Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, but oil makes the cake softer and more moist.

3. Why did my cake shrink after baking?

  • Sudden temperature change
  • Underbaking

4. Can I use all-purpose flour?

Yes, but sift it well for better texture.

5. How to store sponge cake?

Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days at room temperature.

✅ Conclusion

This Vanilla Sponge Cake is soft, fluffy, and easy to make at home. By following the correct technique, you can achieve a perfect sponge cake every time—ideal for any occasion.