Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake

Name: Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 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 vanilla extract; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: FreshGlow Recipes

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. With a simple recipe, you can create a delightful dessert that everyone will love.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:02:20.624Z

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is a classic dessert that is both simple to make and incredibly delicious. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat, this cake is a favorite among all ages.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile base for a variety of toppings and fillings
Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute desserts

      

The Perfect Foundation for Any Celebration

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake serves as the ideal base for countless celebrations, from birthdays to weddings. Its light and fluffy texture not only delights the senses but also pairs beautifully with a range of toppings. Whether you choose a rich chocolate ganache, a fresh fruit glaze, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar, this cake is versatile enough to accommodate your creative whims.

Additionally, this cake can be layered with your favorite fillings, such as whipped cream, custard, or fruit preserves. Each layer adds a new dimension of flavor, making it a fantastic choice for tiered cakes or special desserts. Customize it to reflect your personal style and the theme of your event.

Tips for Success

To ensure your vanilla sponge cake turns out perfectly, it’s crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when it comes to flour and sugar. Additionally, make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming. This step helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake.

Another essential tip is to avoid overmixing once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we want to avoid. Stir until just combined to ensure your cake remains airy and fluffy. Lastly, keep an eye on your cake as it bakes; every oven is different, and slight adjustments in time may be necessary.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your cake has cooled completely, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and it will taste just as fresh as the day you baked it.

When serving, consider pairing this vanilla sponge cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate it even further, turning a simple dessert into a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.

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 vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
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). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.

Mix Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Stir in vanilla extract until just combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 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 it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve plain or with your favorite frosting.

Enjoy your delicious vanilla sponge cake!

Variations to Try

While the classic vanilla sponge cake is a favorite, there are numerous variations you can explore. Consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the batter for a refreshing twist. This subtle flavor enhancement can brighten the overall taste and make it even more enjoyable.

You can also experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to create unique flavor profiles. For a chocolate lover’s delight, fold in cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips into the batter for added richness. Each variation opens up new possibilities for taste and presentation.

Serving Ideas for Every Occasion

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family dinner, a festive holiday celebration, or a formal event. For a casual gathering, serve it plain with a side of whipped cream and fresh fruit. This simple presentation allows the cake’s airy texture to shine.

For more formal occasions, consider decorating the cake with fondant or intricate piping designs. Layering it with different fillings and toppings can impress your guests and elevate the dining experience. Remember, the key to a show-stopping cake is not just in the flavor but also in the presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute cake flour for a lighter texture.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs well with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.