Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake

Name: Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is a light and fluffy dessert, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:06:20.408Z

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is not only simple to make but also delivers a delightful taste that everyone will love. Perfect for birthdays, tea time or just a sweet treat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile base for any frosting or fruit toppings
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any baker

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

This Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake is an ideal dessert for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply a lovely afternoon tea. Its light, airy texture makes it a delightful treat, and its subtle vanilla flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings. Whether you choose to serve it plain, dress it up with frosting, or layer it with fresh fruits, this cake is sure to impress your guests.

One of the great things about this cake is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or occasion. Add citrus zest for a refreshing twist, or incorporate cocoa powder for a chocolate version. The possibilities are endless, and this simple cake serves as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your vanilla sponge cake, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This includes the butter, eggs, and milk, as it helps to create a smoother batter, which leads to a lighter texture. Additionally, be careful not to overmix your batter once the flour is added, as this can lead to a denser cake than desired.

Another helpful tip is to accurately measure your ingredients. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure precision, especially with flour, which can be easily overpacked in a measuring cup. Lastly, always check your oven's temperature with an oven thermometer to avoid uneven baking, which can affect the cake's rise.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Easy Vanilla Sponge Cake has cooled, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and freezing it for up to a month. Thaw it at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy it again, and it will taste just as fresh as the day you baked it.

When serving, consider pairing the vanilla sponge cake with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant touch. For a festive twist, top it with seasonal fruits or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This cake can also be layered with whipped cream and fruit to create a stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

For the Frosting (Optional)

1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Combine all the ingredients to create a delicious cake.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.

Mix the Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, alternating with milk and vanilla extract.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Frost with whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy your homemade vanilla sponge cake!

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding extracts such as almond or coconut for a unique twist. You can also fold in chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for added texture and flavor. If you enjoy fruity desserts, consider adding pureed strawberries or peaches to the batter for a delightful surprise in every bite.

For those who love chocolate, try substituting a portion of the flour with cocoa powder to create a chocolate vanilla sponge cake. This version maintains the same light and fluffy texture while offering a rich chocolate flavor that pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or fruit.

Healthier Substitutions

If you're looking to make a healthier version of this sponge cake, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will add more fiber to the cake while still keeping it light. You can also reduce the sugar by using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, though you'll need to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.

For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk, ensuring that the final product is just as fluffy and delicious. These simple substitutions can help you cater to dietary needs while still enjoying a classic dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?

Yes, you can use this batter to make cupcakes. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the sponge cake?

Yes, you can freeze the sponge cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute butter with vegetable oil or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.