This sponge cake recipe is a timeless classic, perfect for any occasion. With its light and airy texture, it pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results every time.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples. However, you may need to ensure you have all-purpose flour, baking powder, and melted butter. These items are typically available in the baking aisle of your local supermarket. Make sure to get fresh eggs and milk as well.

Ingredients for Sponge Cake Recipe
Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a tender crumb.
All-purpose flour: The main dry ingredient that forms the base of the cake.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
Milk: Adds moisture and helps to create a tender texture.
Melted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the cake.
Technique Tip for Baking
When folding in the milk and melted butter, use a gentle hand to avoid deflating the batter. A rubber spatula is ideal for this task. Make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This technique helps maintain the cake's light and airy texture.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This works well as a binder and adds a slight nutty flavor.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Use ¾ cup of honey for every cup of sugar. Honey adds moisture and a unique flavor profile.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cake flour: Use 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of cake flour for every cup of all-purpose flour. Cake flour has a lower protein content, resulting in a lighter texture.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon of baking soda and ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder. This combination mimics the leavening effect.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Use the same amount of almond milk as regular milk. Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that maintains the moisture of the cake.
melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Use the same amount of melted coconut oil as butter. Coconut oil adds a subtle coconut flavor and is a good dairy-free option.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cake
How to Store / Freeze Your Cake
- Allow the sponge cake to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the cake soggy.
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. Ensure that every part of the cake is covered to maintain its moisture.
- Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container. This adds an extra layer of protection against air and moisture, keeping the cake fresh for longer.
- Store the cake at room temperature if you plan to consume it within 2-3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- For longer storage, place the wrapped cake in the refrigerator. This can extend its freshness up to a week. However, be aware that refrigeration can sometimes dry out the cake, so ensure it is well-wrapped.
- To freeze the sponge cake, first wrap it in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label the package with the date to keep track of its storage time.
- Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe, airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. This will help maintain its texture and flavor.
- Freeze the cake for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight while still wrapped to prevent condensation from forming on the cake.
- For quicker thawing, you can leave the wrapped cake at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, remove the wrapping and let it sit uncovered for a few minutes to restore its original texture.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Wrap the sponge cake in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Place the wrapped cake on a baking sheet.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is warmed through.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before unwrapping and serving.
Microwave Method:
- Place a slice of sponge cake on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover the cake with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
- Check the cake's temperature and heat in additional 10-second intervals if needed.
- Let it sit for a minute before enjoying.
Steaming Method:
- Set up a steamer or a pot with a steaming rack and bring water to a gentle boil.
- Place the sponge cake on a heatproof plate and cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Steam the cake for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is warmed through.
- Carefully remove the cake from the steamer and let it cool slightly before serving.
Toaster Oven Method:
- Preheat your toaster oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Wrap the sponge cake in aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped cake in the toaster oven.
- Heat for about 10 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure it doesn't overheat.
- Remove and let it rest for a few minutes before unwrapping and serving.
Stovetop Skillet Method:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat.
- Place a slice of sponge cake in the skillet.
- Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat.
- Warm the cake for about 2-3 minutes on each side, checking frequently to avoid burning.
- Remove from the skillet and let it cool slightly before serving.
Best Tools for Baking
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) to bake the cake evenly.
Baking pan: Grease and flour this to prevent the cake from sticking.
Mixing bowl: Use this to beat the eggs and mix the ingredients.
Electric mixer: Beat the eggs until thick and lemon-colored, and to mix the sugar until light and fluffy.
Sifter: Sift the flour and baking powder together to ensure they are well combined and to add air to the mixture.
Spatula: Gently fold in the milk and melted butter to keep the batter smooth.
Toothpick: Insert into the center of the cake to check if it is done.
Wire rack: Cool the cake completely after removing it from the pan.
Measuring cups: Measure out the sugar, flour, milk, and melted butter accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measure out the baking powder accurately.
How to Save Time on Baking
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth workflow and saves time.
Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can beat the eggs and sugar while you prepare other components, speeding up the process.
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
Sift dry ingredients ahead: Sift the flour and baking powder together in advance to save time during preparation.
Prepare the pan: Grease and flour your baking pan before starting to avoid interruptions.
Sponge Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs until thick and lemon-colored.
- Gradually add sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Sift together the flour and baking powder. Add to the egg mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Gently fold in the milk and melted butter until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Value
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