Soft & Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe – Easy Homemade

Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe – A classic vanilla sponge cake is one of the most beloved and versatile cakes in the world. Known for its light, airy texture and delicate vanilla flavor, this cake serves as the perfect foundation for countless desserts—from layered birthday cakes to fruit-filled pastries and even simple tea-time treats. A well-made sponge cake stands out because of its moist crumb, gentle sweetness, and fluffy rise, making it a timeless favorite among bakers everywhere.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: International / European

• Course: Dessert / Cake

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Active Time: 15 minutes

• Resting & Cooling Time: 40 minutes

• Baking Time: 25–30 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Servings: 8–10 slices

• Calories: ~280 calories per slice

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Intermediate

• Texture: Light, airy, soft

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 3 large eggs (room temperature)

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup milk (warm)

• ¼ cup melted butter (slightly cooled)

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

• Two 8-inch round cake pans or one 9-inch pan

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer

• Spatula

• Mixing bowls

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Sieve for dry ingredients

• Parchment paper

• Cooling rack

• Toothpick or cake tester

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease cake pans with butter or oil.

• Line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Lightly dust the sides with flour and tap out excess.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

1. In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. Set aside—this keeps the cake fluffy and lump-free.

Step 3: Whip Eggs & Sugar

1. Add eggs and sugar to a large mixing bowl.

2. Beat on high speed for 5–7 minutes until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and triples in volume.

3. The mixture should form ribbons when lifted—this step is crucial for the sponge texture.

Step 4: Add Vanilla

• Gently mix in vanilla extract on low speed.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients

1. Add the flour mixture in three small portions.

2. Gently fold using a spatula with light motions to avoid deflating the batter.

3. Do not overmix—stop once flour is incorporated.

Step 6: Add Milk, Butter & Oil

1. Mix warm milk, melted butter, and oil in a small bowl.

2. Take a small spoonful of batter and mix it into the milk mixture to lighten it.

3. Pour this mixture back into the main batter.

4. Fold gently until smooth and consistent.

Step 7: Pour & Bake

• Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.

• Tap pans lightly to release air bubbles.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

• Run a knife around the edges and invert onto a cooling rack.

• Allow to cool completely before frosting or slicing.

Tips for a Perfect Vanilla Sponge Cake

1. Use room-temperature ingredients

This ensures even mixing, better volume, and smoother texture.

2. Do not overmix after adding flour

Overmixing deflates the batter and makes the cake dense.

3. Warm milk, don’t boil

Warm milk blends better and keeps the crumb soft.

4. Do not open the oven during the first 20 minutes

This prevents the cake from collapsing.

5. Use high-quality vanilla extract

It enhances the aroma and flavor significantly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve plain with powdered sugar for a simple treat.

• Layer with whipped cream and berries for a refreshing dessert.

• Use as a base for birthday cakes with buttercream frosting.

• Pair with tea, lattes, or warm milk.

Conclusion

A classic vanilla sponge cake is truly the heart of baking—a recipe every home cook should master. Its delicate texture, airy crumb, and rich vanilla aroma make it perfect for layered cakes, simple tea-time treats, or celebration desserts. With this detailed guide, you can easily create a bakery-standard cake using basic ingredients and simple techniques.