This classic vanilla sponge cake is the kind of recipe that every home baker should master early on. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a quiet afternoon treat, or simply to fill your kitchen with the sweet aroma of nostalgia, this cake delivers every time. It’s soft, fluffy, buttery, and has that perfect golden crack across the top that we all secretly love.

What makes this cake truly stand out is its light texture and versatility. You can enjoy it plain, dress it up with whipped cream and berries, or layer it with custard and jam. For other equally delightful textures, check out this Lemon Cream Cake recipe—it’s fluffy, citrusy, and irresistible with a hot cup of coffee.

The secret to success with sponge cakes lies in simple, good-quality ingredients and proper mixing technique. With this easy vanilla sponge cake recipe, you’ll achieve bakery-style results from the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a perfect vanilla sponge cake:

1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature

Yields: One 8-inch round cake (double the ingredients for a layered version)

Directions

When baking a classic vanilla sponge cake, it’s important not to overmix the batter to keep it fluffy.

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour an 8-inch cake pan or line with parchment paper.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Whisk lightly to distribute the ingredients evenly.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer for 3–4 minutes, or until light, pale, and fluffy.
This step adds air into the batter—crucial for that tender crumb.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract and scrape down the sides of the bowl.

5. Incorporate Dry and Wet

Add half of the dry mixture, mix until just combined.
Pour in the milk, mix gently.
Add the remaining flour mixture, and fold until the batter is smooth.

6. Bake

Transfer the batter into the prepared pan.
Tap gently to release any air bubbles.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve

Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Looking for a fruity twist? This Pineapple Juice Cake might just be your next obsession!

Tips & Variations

Use room-temperature ingredients: It helps everything blend better and bake evenly.
Add citrus zest: Lemon or orange zest can brighten the flavor.
For a moister texture: Substitute half the milk with sour cream.
Want mini loaves like in the image? Use a mini loaf pan and bake for 20–22 minutes instead.
Gluten-free version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix.

For creamy cake fillings, consider using this Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake Frappuccino base as inspiration for flavor layers.

Storage

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Will last up to 5 days, but bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Wrap slices in cling film and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Yields: 1 round 8-inch cake or 6 mini sponge cakes

Tools Used

8-inch cake pan or mini loaf tray
Hand or stand mixer
Rubber spatula
Mixing bowls
Wire cooling rack
Measuring cups & spoons
Parchment paper (optional)

Need a cozy dish to go along with dessert? Try this Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe—a perfect savory pairing.

Why This Is the Best Classic Vanilla Sponge Cake

This classic vanilla sponge cake is your go-to base recipe. Its beauty lies in the balance: light enough for an afternoon treat, and rich enough for celebrations. It’s beginner-friendly, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress.

Whether you keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar or turn it into a layered masterpiece, it never disappoints. Want to push your baking further? Try the Blueberry Sour Cream Pound Cake next—it’s another reader favorite.

For additional variations, this Delish guide to sponge cakes shares professional tips worth exploring.