Simple sponge cake with a few raisins.

Simple Raisin Sponge Cake: The Fluffy Delight That Will Enchant Your Taste Buds

Total Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Number of Servings: 8

Who doesn't love a simple yet special dessert that brings a smile to your face? The raisin sponge cake is a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it's a family meal, a gathering with friends, or just an afternoon when you need something sweet. This classic recipe brings together fluffy textures and delicate flavors, with raisins adding a touch of natural sweetness. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

- 3 large eggs (separating the whites from the yolks)
- 1 cup (about 200 g) granulated sugar
- 50 ml oil
- 1 cup (about 200 g) flour
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 100 g raisins (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes)
- ½ packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt (to enhance the flavor)

Preparation Technique:

1. Preparing the Batter:
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential that the bowl you use to beat the egg whites is clean and dry, so you can achieve a perfect foam. A helpful suggestion is to use a cup to measure the egg whites: for each cup of egg whites, add the same amount of sugar and flour.

2. Beating the Egg Whites:
Use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy sponge cake. When the egg whites start to form soft peaks, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix.

3. Incorporating the Yolks:
Add the vanilla sugar and yolks in one go, mixing gently. It is important not to overmix so that you don't lose the air in the mixture.

4. Adding the Oil:
Pour the oil in a thin stream, mixing with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed. This will incorporate the oil without making the mixture too dense.

5. Including the Raisins:
Drain the raisins from the water they were soaked in and add them to the mixture. Use a wooden spatula to gently fold them in, making sure they are evenly distributed in the batter.

6. Flour and Baking Powder:
Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually fold them into the egg mixture using the spatula. Do this with gentle, upward strokes to maintain the airiness of the mixture.

7. Preparing the Baking Pan:
Grease a loaf pan with oil and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the oven and bake the sponge cake for 30-35 minutes. Check if it is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center - it should come out clean.

9. Serving:
Once cooled, you can dust the sponge cake with powdered sugar or make a simple glaze from sugar and water, melting it over low heat and pouring it over the sponge cake. It’s delicious and pairs perfectly with a scoop of ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea.

Practical Tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon or lemon zest over the raisins.
- Experiment with other dried fruits: apricots, cranberries, or nuts to customize the recipe.
- If you need a moister dessert, you can add a splash of milk to the mixture.

Nutritional Benefits:
The raisin sponge cake is not only tasty but also nutritious. The eggs provide quality protein, while the raisins are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They also contain fiber that aids digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, but the result will be denser. Make sure to adjust the liquid amount if necessary.

2. Can the sponge cake be frozen?
Yes, it is recommended to wrap it well in plastic wrap and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

3. Can I replace the oil with butter?
Absolutely! Melted butter adds a rich flavor, but make sure to let it cool before adding it to the mixture.

A Personal Story:
This raisin sponge cake recipe brings back memories of my childhood when my grandmother would spoil us with treats made with love. I have always been fascinated by how a simple mix of ingredients transforms into a fluffy dessert that brings us together around the table, smiling and sharing stories. I encourage you to gather your family around this simple yet joyful dessert.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get to work. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor every bite of this fluffy raisin sponge cake!