Save Discover the joy of baking with this simple 3-Ingredient Vanilla Sponge Cake, a light and airy dessert that effortlessly captures the essence of classic vanilla. Made with just eggs, sugar, and flour, this cake is perfect for those moments when you want a quick, reliable treat or a versatile base for more elaborate creations. Whether you're a beginner or need a speedy bake, this recipe guarantees a fluffy texture and a golden finish every time.
Save This vanilla sponge serves as an excellent canvas for personalization. From trifles to decorated birthday cakes, its subtle sweetness and tender crumb invite creativity. Plus, mastering this basic sponge opens doors to many other baking adventures.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 120 g granulated sugar (about ½ cup + 2 tbsp)
- 120 g all-purpose flour (about 1 cup), sifted
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional, for enhanced vanilla flavor)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line the bottom of an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
- 2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer on high speed for 5–7 minutes, until thick, pale, and tripled in volume.
- 3. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat, until the mixture is glossy and forms ribbons.
- 4. Gently fold in the sifted flour in three additions using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the batter. If using, fold in the vanilla extract with the last addition of flour.
- 5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- 6. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then run a knife around the edge and turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Make sure the eggs are at room temperature before starting to achieve maximum volume. When folding in the flour, do so gently to keep the batter airy and light. Adding the vanilla extract is optional but recommended for a richer vanilla aroma.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This basic sponge cake can be decorated with powdered sugar, fresh fruits, or layered with cream and jam to make a variety of desserts. For extra flavor, include the optional vanilla extract. You can also use it as a base for trifles or other multi-layered cakes.
Serviervorschläge
Enjoy the sponge plain for a light snack, or elevate it by layering with whipped cream and berries. Dust with powdered sugar for a delicate finish, or use it as a foundation to create elegant layered cakes for celebrations.
Save With this 3-ingredient vanilla sponge cake, you hold a timeless recipe that blends simplicity with deliciousness. Whether as a solo treat or a layered masterpiece, it brings both ease and elegance to your baking endeavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes the sponge cake light and airy?
Beating eggs until thick and tripled in volume incorporates air, which creates a fluffy texture in the final cake.
- → Can I enhance the vanilla flavor?
Yes, adding 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract during the last stage of folding infuses a delicate vanilla aroma.
- → Why is it important not to overmix after adding flour?
Overmixing can deflate the batter, resulting in a denser, less tender sponge.
- → What size pan is recommended?
An 8-inch round cake pan ensures even baking and produces a nicely shaped sponge.
- → How do I know when the cake is baked?
The sponge is ready when it turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- → Can this sponge be used as a base for layered cakes?
Absolutely, its light texture and subtle flavor make it an ideal foundation for layered desserts and trifles.