Introduction
This Simple 3-Ingredient Sponge Cake is light, fluffy, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for beginners or when you’re short on time and ingredients, this classic sponge can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for layered cakes, trifles, or roulades.
Ingredients
4 large eggs (room temperature)
120g (½ cup + 1 tbsp) granulated sugar
120g (1 cup) all-purpose flour (sifted)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan.
Beat the eggs and sugar together using a stand or hand mixer on high speed for 7–10 minutes, until the mixture triples in volume and becomes pale and fluffy.
Gently fold in the flour a little at a time using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the batter—use light, circular motions.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Description
This sponge cake is tender, airy, and mildly sweet—ideal for soaking up syrups or layering with whipped cream and fruit. With no butter or oil, it relies solely on the whipped eggs for structure and softness, resulting in a naturally light crumb.
Tips
Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better volume when whipped.
Sift the flour twice to avoid lumps and help maintain the cake’s light texture.
Do not overmix after adding the flour to keep the batter airy.
You can line the bottom of the pan with parchment, but avoid greasing the sides—this helps the sponge climb and stay tall.
Variations
Vanilla: Add 1 tsp of vanilla extract for flavor.
Citrus: Add some lemon or orange zest for a fresh twist.
Chocolate: Replace 20g of flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate sponge.
Layered Cake: Slice into layers and fill with whipped cream, jam, or ganache.
Correction
If your cake sinks or is dense:
You may have overmixed the batter or under-whipped the eggs.
Make sure to bake immediately after folding in the flour.
Check that your oven was fully preheated and don’t open the door too early.
Enjoy
Slice, serve, and enjoy your light and fluffy sponge with your favorite tea or coffee—or dress it up into a stunning dessert!
Want a version with whipped cream and berries or maybe a chocolate glaze next?