Simple 3-Ingredient Sponge Cake

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This light and airy sponge cake requires just 3 basic ingredients and no butter or oil! It’s perfect for layering with whipped cream and fruit, using as a base for strawberry shortcake, or enjoying plain with a dusting of powdered sugar. The texture is soft yet sturdy, making it ideal for soaking up syrups or custards.

Ingredients

  • 5 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, sifted

(Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract or lemon zest for flavor)

Instructions

1. Prep & Preheat

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line the bottom of an 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan with parchment paper (do not grease the sides).

2. Whip Eggs & Sugar

  1. In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar with an electric mixer on high speed for 8–10 minutes until pale, thick, and tripled in volume.
  2. (Optional: Add vanilla or zest at this stage.)

3. Fold in Flour

  1. Gently sift flour over the egg mixture in 3 batches, folding with a spatula after each addition just until combined (don’t overmix).

4. Bake

  1. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
  2. Do not open the oven door during the first 20 minutes to prevent collapsing.

5. Cool & Serve

  1. Immediately invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool upside down (this maintains height).
  2. Once cool, run a knife around the edges to release.

Tips for Success

✔ Room-temperature eggs whip better for maximum volume.
✔ Sift flour twice for the lightest texture.
✔ No mixer? Whisk vigorously by hand—it’ll take longer but works!
✔ Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving Ideas

  • Layer with whipped cream and berries for a Victoria sponge
  • Drizzle with honey or chocolate sauce
  • Use for tiramisu or trifle

Final Thoughts

This foolproof sponge cake proves that sometimes less is more. With no butter or leavening agents, it relies solely on well-beaten eggs for its lift. The result? A versatile, tender cake that’s ready in no time.

Perfect for beginners and baking emergencies!

Variation: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder for a chocolate version.

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