Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe (Soft & Fluffy Guide)

  • April 4, 2026

๐Ÿ“– 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 resultsโ€”even for beginners.

๐Ÿงพ Ingredients

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

 

 

 

โž• Optional Additions

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

๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿณ Step-by-Step Instructions

๐Ÿ”ฅ Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 170โ€“180ยฐC (340โ€“350ยฐF).
๐Ÿ‘‰ Proper temperature helps the cake rise evenly.

๐Ÿงˆ Step 2: Prepare the Pan

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

๐Ÿ‘‰ This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.

๐Ÿฅš Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugar

In a large bowl:

  • Add eggs and sugar

Beat for 8โ€“10 minutes until:

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

๐Ÿ‘‰ This step is the key to a soft sponge cake.

๐ŸŒพ Step 4: Add Flour

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

โŒ Do not overmix
๐Ÿ‘‰ Keeps the batter airy.

๐Ÿฅ› 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.

๐Ÿ‘‰ This helps combine everything without losing air.

๐Ÿฅฃ Step 6: Pour the Batter

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

๐Ÿ”ฅ Step 7: Bake

Bake for 25โ€“30 minutes

๐Ÿ‘‰ Avoid opening the oven early

โœ”๏ธ Insert a toothpick
If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

โ„๏ธ Step 8: Cooling

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

๐Ÿ‘‰ Proper cooling prevents the cake from collapsing.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Step 9: Serve

Slice and enjoy ๐Ÿ˜Š
You can serve with:

  • Cream
  • Fruits
  • Syrup

๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tips

  • Use room temperature eggs
  • Beat eggs properly for maximum volume
  • Fold gently to keep air inside
  • Do not overbakeโ“ 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 2โ€“3 days at room temperature.

โœ… 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 timeโ€”ideal for any occasion.