Save Discover the joy of baking with this Simple 3-Ingredient Vanilla Sponge Cake, a delightfully light and airy treat that comes together with minimal fuss. Using just eggs, sugar, and flour, this recipe transforms humble pantry staples into a fluffy, golden cake perfect for quick desserts or as a versatile base to build layered creations. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, its effortless charm and classic vanilla flavor will make it a favorite in your kitchen.
Save With its simplicity and elegance, this vanilla sponge cake serves as a canvas for your creativity—whether dusted with powdered sugar, layered with fruit and cream, or frosted with your favorite icing. Its tender crumb and subtle sweetness highlight the purity of real eggs and flour, celebrating classic baking in its most straightforward form.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 120 g granulated sugar (about ½ cup + 2 tbsp)
- 120 g all-purpose flour (about 1 cup), sifted
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional, for enhanced vanilla flavor)
Instructions
- 1.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line the bottom of an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
- 2.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer on high speed for 5–7 minutes, until thick, pale, and tripled in volume.
- 3.
- Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat, until the mixture is glossy and forms ribbons.
- 4.
- Gently fold in the sifted flour in three additions using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the batter. If using, fold in the vanilla extract with the last addition of flour.
- 5.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- 6.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 7.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then run a knife around the edge and turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the fluffiest texture, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before beating; this helps incorporate more air. When folding in the flour, use a gentle folding motion to avoid deflating the batter, preserving its lightness. Avoid overmixing after adding the flour or you risk a dense cake.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a richer vanilla taste, add the optional teaspoon of pure vanilla extract when folding in the flour. This cake also lends itself well to being layered with fresh fruits, creams, or flavored frostings to create trifles or layered desserts tailored to your preference.
Serviervorschläge
Enjoy this vanilla sponge cake simply dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant finish or use it as the foundation for more elaborate creations like layered cakes or trifles. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Save This Simple 3-Ingredient Vanilla Sponge Cake combines ease and elegance, making it a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain or dress it up, it offers a delightful experience in every bite. Bake it once and see how quickly it becomes a cherished staple in your baking repertoire.
Common Questions
- → How do I achieve a light and airy texture?
Beat the eggs until thick and tripled in volume, then gently fold in the flour to keep the batter light and aerated.
- → Can I add vanilla extract to the batter?
Yes, folding in 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract with the flour enhances the vanilla aroma without affecting texture.
- → What is the ideal baking time and temperature?
Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 22–25 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- → Why should I avoid overmixing after adding flour?
Overmixing can deflate the batter, resulting in a denser, less airy cake texture.
- → Can this cake be used as a base for other desserts?
Absolutely, it serves well as a base for trifles, layered cakes, or dusted with powdered sugar.