This vanilla sponge cake recipe is a delightful treat that is both light and fluffy, offering a dreamy vanilla taste that fills your home with the comforting aroma of baked goods. The cake is made with basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, making it a cost-effective option for any occasion. The meringue base of this recipe ensures a ‘light as a feather’ texture, making it a favorite for those who enjoy delicate and airy cakes. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a homemade dessert, this vanilla sponge cake is the perfect choice. It’s easy to slice, making it ideal for serving at gatherings, and it also makes a lovely gift when wrapped with a ribbon. The key to this recipe’s success lies in the careful preparation of the meringue, which involves whisking egg whites to a foamy stage before gradually adding sugar. This process creates a stable and fluffy base that supports the cake’s structure. The addition of vanilla essence enhances the flavor, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness. The cake is baked to perfection in an oblong tin, ensuring even cooking and a beautiful presentation. Once baked, the cake is cooled in its tin before being dusted with powdered sugar for a finishing touch. This vanilla sponge cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with its golden-brown crust and soft, moist interior.
- Prepare a cake tin by lining the base with baking paper and brushing with melted butter. Preheat the oven to 180C.
- Whisk 6 egg whites with a pinch of salt using an electric whisk until foamy.
- Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until dissolved, then whisk in vanilla.
- Slowly add melted butter while whisking by hand.
- Mix baking powder into flour and gently sieve into egg mixture, mixing with an electric mixer for another minute.
- Pour batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in its tin for an hour before demoulding and dusting with powdered sugar.