Perfect sponge cake

Perfect Sponge Cake: A Delicacy That Will Enchant Your Taste Buds

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn't love a perfect sponge cake, fluffy and aromatic? This classic dessert, with a slightly moist texture and sweet flavor, is easy to make and can become the star of any meal. I decided to skip the classic sponge cake pan and prepare it in a round pot, and the result truly impressed me!

Before we begin, let's delve a little into the history of this dessert. The sponge cake, with deep roots in culinary tradition, has been prepared in various forms and variations throughout the centuries. It is a dessert that has evolved, but its essence - a simple composition of eggs, sugar, flour, and fat - has remained constant. This is my favorite recipe, which blends tradition with a touch of innovation thanks to the round shape and crunchy texture.

Now, let’s get to work!

Ingredients:
- 8 fresh eggs
- 8 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 350 g sugar
- 300 g flour
- 1 vanilla essence (or 2 packets of vanilla sugar)
- 1 tablespoon of cocoa
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Necessary utensils:
- A round pot with a diameter of 24 cm (or a rectangular baking tray)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Wooden spoons or spatula
- Metal rack for cooling
- Baking paper (optional)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy sponge cake. Separate the egg whites from the yolks and have all ingredients ready.

2. Beating the egg whites: In a large bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to beat them until foamy. Then, gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat for 20-25 minutes until the egg whites become firm and glossy. This step is crucial for achieving an airy sponge cake.

3. Adding the wet ingredients: While continuing to mix on low speed, add the oil in a thin stream, gently folding with a spatula from bottom to top. Then, add the yolks one by one, along with the vanilla essence, continuing to mix carefully.

4. Incorporating the flour: Sift the flour over the wet mixture little by little, and gently fold to avoid losing air from the egg whites. From the resulting mixture, reserve three tablespoons to mix with the cocoa. This will add a chocolate note and a brown appearance to the sponge cake.

5. Preparing the pan: Grease the pot with butter and dust it with flour (or use baking paper for an easier result). Pour the sponge cake mixture in, then add the cocoa mixture on top with a spoon, creating a marbled effect.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat) and bake the sponge cake for 45-50 minutes. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 30 minutes to avoid letting the warm air escape.

7. The toothpick test: After the baking time has elapsed, perform the toothpick test - if it comes out clean, the sponge cake is ready. If not, let it bake for a few more minutes.

8. Cooling: Turn off the oven but leave the pot inside with the door slightly ajar for 10 minutes. Then remove the sponge cake and let it cool on a metal rack to prevent condensation from forming.

9. Decorating: Once completely cooled, dust the sponge cake with powdered sugar for an elegant look and to add a touch of sweetness.

Practical Tips:
- Using ingredients: Make sure the eggs are fresh. You can use farm eggs for a more intense flavor.
- Keeping air in the batter: Always mix the ingredients carefully using a spatula to maintain the air in the egg whites.
- Variations of the recipe: You can add grated lemon or orange zest for a fresh citrus flavor. You can also replace cocoa with melted chocolate for a richer taste.
- Serving: This sponge cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of ice cream or a fruit sauce, such as raspberry or strawberry sauce. It is also delicious alongside a cup of aromatic tea or coffee.

Nutritional Benefits:
The sponge cake is a good source of protein from the eggs, while the sugar and oil provide quick energy. By using quality ingredients, such as organic eggs and olive oil, you can create a healthier dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use another type of flour?: Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier version, but keep in mind that the texture will be different.
- How can I tell if the sponge cake is baked?: Besides the toothpick test, also observe if the sponge cake has risen and browned evenly.
- Can the sponge cake be frozen?: Yes, you can freeze the sponge cake, but make sure it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

This perfect sponge cake is easy to make and impresses with its simplicity and delicious taste. Ideal for any occasion, whether it's a festive meal or a simple afternoon with friends. Enjoy!