Fluffy Sponge Cake Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the simplicity of a fluffy sponge cake. It’s a timeless classic that serves as the foundation for countless desserts. This recipe combines a few basic ingredients with precise techniques to ensure consistent results. The secret lies in whipping the eggs and sugar to the ribbon stage, creating a structure that guarantees fluffiness. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or an elegant dessert, this recipe will guide you through each step with ease.

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggs (room temperature)
• 60 g cake flour (½ US cup)
• 40 g castor sugar (around 3 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon)
• 5 g oil (olive oil or vegetable oil, approx. ¾ teaspoon)
• Warm water (for speeding up the whipping process)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a round or square cake pan by lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. Place a larger container with warm water (half full) on your countertop.
2. Position your mixing bowl over the warm water, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water directly. This will gently warm the eggs for better whipping.
3. Crack the eggs into the bowl and add the castor sugar.

Step 3: Whip to Ribbon Stage

1. Using an electric mixer at medium speed, whip the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy.
2. This process may take around 12–15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture reaches the ribbon stage—when you lift the beater, the batter should fall in thick ribbons that remain on the surface for a few seconds.
3. Reduce the mixer speed to low and mix briefly to eliminate any large bubbles.

Step 4: Fold in the Flour

1. Sift the cake flour over the whipped egg mixture in small batches.
2. Using a spatula, gently fold the flour into the batter in a sweeping motion, ensuring not to deflate the air.
3. Add the oil and fold it in just until incorporated.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, leveling it gently with a spatula.
2. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any trapped air bubbles.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
2. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or decorating.

Congratulations! You’ve just baked the perfect fluffy sponge cake. This cake can be enjoyed as is, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or dressed up with your favorite frosting, whipped cream, or fresh fruits. The key to success lies in patience and precision—whipping the eggs properly and folding in the flour gently are crucial steps.

This versatile cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or a simple afternoon treat. Once you’ve mastered this base, you can experiment with flavors like vanilla, lemon, or cocoa. Share your creation with loved ones, and enjoy the delight of homemade baking.