Best Soft & Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe – Easy Homemade Classic Cake

 

Easy homemade vanilla sponge cake that's soft, fluffy, and perfect for every occasion.

The Best Soft and Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe (Easy Homemade Cake)

Introduction

There's nothing better than a classic homemade vanilla sponge cake that's incredibly soft, fluffy, and full of rich buttery flavor. This easy recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to create a light, airy cake with a golden crust and tender crumb. Whether you're baking for birthdays, family gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply craving a delicious dessert, this vanilla sponge cake never disappoints.

Its delicate texture makes it perfect on its own or layered with whipped cream, buttercream frosting, fresh berries, or chocolate ganache. Even beginner bakers can achieve bakery-quality results by following this simple step-by-step guide.

---

Ingredients

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

---

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8 or 9-inch round cake pan.

Step 2

Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 4

Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 6

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk.

Step 7

Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 8

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.

Step 9

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 10

Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan. Cool completely before slicing or decorating.

---

Tips for the Perfect Sponge Cake

• Use room-temperature ingredients.
• Don't overmix the batter.
• Measure flour accurately.
• Avoid opening the oven during baking.
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

---

Storage

• Room temperature: 2–3 days.
• Refrigerator: Up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Up to 2 months.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my sponge cake dense?
Overmixing the batter or using expired baking powder can make the cake heavy.

Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, but butter gives a richer flavor.

Can I make cupcakes?
Absolutely. Bake for 18–22 minutes.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

---