Discover the perfect classic vanilla sponge cake recipe with our easy-to-follow step-by-step guide.
Introduction to Classic Vanilla Sponge Cake
The classic vanilla sponge cake, also known as the Victoria sponge, is a beloved traditional bake that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a special celebration, this cake is sure to be a hit. With its light and fluffy texture, and a sweet filling of jam and buttercream, it’s no wonder that this cake has stood the test of time.
History of the Victoria Sponge
The Victoria sponge cake is said to have been named after Queen Victoria, who was known to enjoy a slice of this cake with her afternoon tea. It has been a popular recipe in British households for generations and is often a go-to choice for parties, weddings, and other special events.
Key Ingredients and Preparation
The key ingredients for a classic vanilla sponge cake include caster sugar, softened butter, eggs, self-raising flour, baking powder, milk, and vanilla extract. The cake is baked in two sandwich tins and then filled with a layer of strawberry jam and buttercream. The preparation involves creaming together the sugar and butter, then adding the eggs, flour, and other ingredients to create a smooth batter. The cake is then baked until golden and springy to the touch.
- 200g caster sugar
- 200g softened butter
- 4 beaten eggs
- 200g self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp milk
Tips and Variations
While the classic Victoria sponge recipe is delicious as is, there are also variations that can be made to suit different tastes. Some bakers like to add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate twist, or experiment with different flavors of jam for the filling. Others may adjust the recipe to their preference for sweetness or texture. It’s important to note that while the traditional recipe calls for four eggs, some bakers have found success with using fewer eggs to achieve a lighter, fluffier sponge.
Overall, the classic vanilla sponge cake is a versatile and timeless dessert that continues to be a favorite among bakers and cake enthusiasts. Its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Gathering Ingredients and Tools
When gathering the ingredients and tools for the classic Victoria sandwich recipe, it’s important to ensure you have everything you need before beginning the baking process. Start by gathering the following ingredients: 200g caster sugar, 200g softened butter, 4 beaten eggs, 200g self-raising flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 2 tbsp milk, 100g softened butter for the filling, 140g sifted icing sugar, and a jar of good-quality strawberry jam. Additionally, you will need non-stick baking paper, two 20cm sandwich tins, a spatula or the back of a spoon for smoothing the batter, and a cooling rack for the baked cakes.
Ingredients:
– 200g caster sugar
– 200g softened butter
– 4 beaten eggs
– 200g self-raising flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 2 tbsp milk
– 100g softened butter for the filling
– 140g sifted icing sugar
– Good-quality strawberry jam
Tools:
– Two 20cm sandwich tins
– Non-stick baking paper
– Spatula or the back of a spoon
– Cooling rack
Once you have gathered all the necessary ingredients and tools, you’ll be ready to start preparing the classic Victoria sandwich according to the recipe instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking
Preparation
– Preheat the oven to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5.
– Butter two 20cm sandwich tins and line with non-stick baking paper.
Making the Cake Batter
– In a large bowl, beat 200g caster sugar and 200g softened butter until creamy.
– Gradually add in 4 beaten eggs and continue to beat until well combined.
– Sift in 200g self-raising flour and 1 tsp baking powder, then fold into the mixture.
– Add 2 tbsp milk and mix until you have a smooth, soft batter.
Baking the Cake
– Divide the batter between the prepared tins, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
– Bake for about 20 mins until golden and the cake springs back when pressed.
– Turn the cakes onto a cooling rack and leave to cool completely.
Making the Filling
– In a bowl, beat 100g softened butter until smooth and creamy.
– Gradually beat in 140g sifted icing sugar and a drop of vanilla extract, if desired.
Assembling the Cake
– Spread the buttercream over the bottom of one of the sponges.
– Top with 170g strawberry jam and sandwich the second sponge on top.
– Dust with a little icing sugar before serving.
Following these step-by-step instructions will ensure you create a perfect classic Victoria sponge cake.
Baking and Cooling the Cake
After preparing the cake batter according to the recipe, divide it evenly between the two buttered and lined sandwich tins. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the surface of the batter in each tin, ensuring an even distribution.
Baking the Cake
Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cakes are golden and spring back when lightly pressed. It’s important to avoid opening the oven door during the baking process, as this can cause the cakes to sink.
- Preheat the oven to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5
- Butter two 20cm sandwich tins and line with non-stick baking paper
- Divide the batter between the tins and smooth the surface
- Bake for about 20 minutes until golden and springy to the touch
Cooling the Cake
Once the cakes are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the tins for a few minutes. Then, carefully turn the cakes out onto a cooling rack and leave them to cool completely before assembling the Victoria sandwich.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for a few minutes before turning them out onto a cooling rack
- Leave the cakes to cool completely before assembling the Victoria sandwich
Following these steps for baking and cooling the cake will ensure that your Victoria sandwich turns out light, fluffy, and perfectly delicious.
Decorating and Serving
After assembling the Victoria sandwich, you can decorate it with a dusting of icing sugar for a simple and elegant finish. You can also add fresh berries or edible flowers to the top of the cake for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Adding a Personal Touch
To add a personal touch to your Victoria sandwich, consider piping a decorative border of buttercream around the edge of the cake. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or chocolate shavings on top for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
When serving the Victoria sandwich, you can cut it into wedges or squares, depending on your preference. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee and is perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat for any occasion. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert option.
Variations and Tips for Success
Variations
– For a twist on the classic Victoria sandwich, try adding some lemon zest to the cake batter for a zesty flavor.
– Instead of strawberry jam, you can use raspberry jam or even a homemade fruit compote for the filling.
– If you want to make a larger cake, simply double the recipe and use larger cake tins.
Tips for Success
– Make sure the butter is softened but not melted when making the cake batter to ensure a light and fluffy sponge.
– When dividing the cake batter between the tins, use a kitchen scale to ensure they are evenly filled for even baking.
– Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling to prevent the buttercream from melting and the jam from soaking into the sponge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the classic Victoria sandwich recipe is a timeless and beloved dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all skill levels. The result is a light and fluffy sponge cake filled with sweet strawberry jam and buttercream, making it a delightful treat for any gathering.
Benefits of the Recipe
– The recipe provides a step-by-step guide for creating the perfect Victoria sponge, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve excellent results.
– The option to freeze the cake base for up to 3 months allows for convenient preparation ahead of time for special events or gatherings.
– The addition of personal touches, such as adding cocoa powder or raspberry jam, allows for customization and creativity in the baking process.
Feedback and Tips
The comments section provides valuable feedback and tips from individuals who have tried the recipe. From suggestions on adjusting the number of eggs to personal variations on the filling, the community engagement adds depth to the recipe and offers insights for those looking to experiment with the classic Victoria sponge. Additionally, the comments reflect the diverse experiences of home bakers and contribute to the overall appeal of the recipe.
In conclusion, the classic vanilla sponge cake recipe is a timeless and versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of toppings and fillings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is a must-have for any baker looking to create a delicious and crowd-pleasing treat.