Are you a fan of light, airy cakes that melt in your mouth? Look no further! Sponge cakes are a classic dessert that never goes out of style. With their fluffy texture and versatility, they’re perfect for any occasion. From birthdays to weddings, and even just a sweet treat after dinner, sponge cakes are always a crowd-pleaser.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 deliciously light sponge cake recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a classic vanilla fan or looking to get creative with flavors like matcha green tea or orange blossom, we’ve got you covered. So grab your mixing bowls and baking sheets, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of sponge cakes!
Classic Vanilla Sponge Cake
This timeless recipe yields a light, fluffy, and moist vanilla sponge cake that’s perfect for snacking or serving as the base for your favorite desserts. With its simplicity and versatility, this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 tablespoons (90ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together milk and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Drizzle Sponge Cake
A classic British dessert, this moist and flavorful sponge cake is infused with the brightness of lemon zest and topped with a tangy drizzle. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add milk, lemon juice, and zest; whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Chocolate Sponge Cake with Whipped Cream
Celebrate special occasions or simply treat yourself to a rich and indulgent dessert with this classic combination of chocolate sponge cake and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and oil.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Top with whipped cream and dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes per cake
Matcha Green Tea Sponge Cake
This Japanese-inspired dessert combines the delicate flavor of matcha green tea with the lightness and airiness of a sponge cake, perfect for a unique and refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth.
4. Gradually pour dry ingredients into wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Sponge
This classic British dessert is a staple for a reason – the combination of sweet strawberries and fluffy sponge cake is a match made in heaven. This recipe yields a moist and tender shortcake that’s perfect for serving with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orange Blossom Sponge Cake
Experience the sweetness of orange blossom water in this light and airy sponge cake, perfect for a dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, baking powder, and salt until light and fluffy.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, orange blossom water, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pandan Coconut Sponge Cake
Experience the tropical flavors of Southeast Asia with this moist and airy Pandan Coconut Sponge Cake, infused with the sweetness of coconut and the subtle flavor of pandan leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon pandan extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, coconut oil, and pandan extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Fold in shredded coconut.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tiramisu Sponge Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this classic Italian-inspired sponge cake, perfect for soaking up the rich flavors of tiramisu.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add flour, melted butter, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before using as the base for your tiramisu dessert.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Raspberry and Cream Sponge Cake
This moist and flavorful sponge cake is perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. With a layer of sweet cream and fresh raspberries, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (120g) fresh raspberries
– Whipped cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and flour.
3. Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Once cooled, spread whipped cream over the top of the cake and arrange fresh raspberries on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Earl Grey Tea Sponge Cake
This classic sponge cake infused with the subtle flavor of Earl Grey tea is a perfect treat for any occasion. Moist, airy, and oh-so-delicious, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves, steeped in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, baking powder, and salt until light and fluffy.
3. Add milk, Earl Grey tea mixture, and flour. Whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blueberry Yogurt Sponge Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tanginess of lemon and the creaminess of yogurt, perfect for a springtime treat or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Forest Sponge Cake
A classic German dessert, this Black Forest sponge cake is a moist and decadent treat filled with chocolate and cherries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup (30g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup (60g) dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cocoa powder, and confectioners’ sugar.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Fold in chopped cherries and chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramel Sponge Cake with Salted Caramel Frosting
This rich dessert combines the lightness of a sponge cake with the deep, buttery flavor of caramel and a touch of salt. The perfect treat for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the frosting:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Whisk together eggs, sugar, milk, and melted butter in a large bowl. Add flour mixture and whisk until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Allow cake to cool completely before frosting.
5. Combine sugar, corn syrup, cream, and sea salt in a saucepan. Bring to boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until melted. Let cool slightly before spreading over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (cake), 10 minutes (frosting)
Red Velvet Sponge Cake
This iconic cake gets its distinctive red color from cocoa powder and its velvety texture from buttermilk. With a simple recipe and minimal ingredients, you can create this show-stopping dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, buttermilk, eggs, and red food coloring (if using).
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Espresso Sponge Cake with Mocha Glaze
Start your day off right with a rich and decadent espresso sponge cake, topped with a velvety mocha glaze.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons strong brewed espresso
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two 6-inch round cake pans and line bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add brewed espresso and milk; whisk until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, brewed espresso, and heavy cream until smooth.
8. Drizzle glaze over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Passion Fruit Sponge Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this light and airy Passion Fruit Sponge Cake, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of passion fruit.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons passion fruit puree
– Unsalted butter, softened (for greasing the pan)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg whites, whisking until smooth.
5. Add milk and passion fruit puree; whisk until combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey and Almond Sponge Cake
A moist and flavorful cake infused with the sweetness of honey and the crunch of almonds, perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (30g) honey
– 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Whisk together eggs, sugar, and honey until frothy. Add milk and whisk until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Stir in sliced almonds.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pineapple Upside-Down Sponge Cake
Pineapple Upside-Down Sponge Cake Recipe
Experience the sweet combination of moist sponge cake and caramelized pineapple rings with this easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (240g) pineapple rings, fresh or canned
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Whisk flour, sugar, and baking powder in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; whisk until just combined.
5. Arrange pineapple rings on the prepared pan, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
6. Pour batter over pineapple rings.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven; let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Enjoy your Pineapple Upside-Down Sponge Cake!
Summary
Indulge in the lightness of 18 fluffy sponge cake recipes that will transport you to a world of sweet delight. From classic vanilla and decadent chocolate to matcha green tea and strawberry shortcake, these desserts are sure to satisfy your cravings. Each recipe offers a unique twist on the traditional sponge cake, with flavors ranging from citrusy lemon and orange blossom to rich caramel and espresso. With options for every palate, you’ll find the perfect treat to brighten up any occasion.
