How to Make a Delicious Sponge Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
This comprehensive guide provides a detailed procedure for making a delightful sponge cake. We'll cover everything from ingredient preparation to baking and cooling, ensuring you achieve a light and airy result perfect for any occasion. This recipe is designed to be beginner-friendly, using readily available ingredients and clear instructions.
I. Ingredients You'll Need:
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Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour ( tepung terigu protein sedang) – sifted for a smoother texture.
- 2 cups granulated sugar ( gula pasir) – provides sweetness and structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder ( baking powder) – for a light and fluffy cake.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda ( soda kue) – helps the cake rise.
- ½ teaspoon salt ( garam) – enhances the flavors.
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Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk ( susu) – adds moisture and richness. You can use whole milk, low-fat milk, or even buttermilk for a tangier flavor.
- ½ cup vegetable oil ( minyak sayur) – keeps the cake moist.
- 4 large eggs ( telur) – binds the ingredients and adds richness. Ensure they are at room temperature for optimal volume.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract ( vanili) – enhances the flavor. Feel free to experiment with other extracts like almond or lemon.
II. Equipment Needed:
- Two 9-inch round baking pans ( loyang kue) – greased and floured to prevent sticking.
- Mixing bowls ( wadah adonan) – at least two, one large and one smaller.
- Electric mixer ( mixer) – for easier and faster mixing (a hand mixer or whisk will work, too!).
- Rubber spatula ( spatula) – for scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Measuring cups and spoons ( takaran) – for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Wire rack ( rak pendingin) – for cooling the cake.
III. Step-by-Step Baking Procedure:
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Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your baking pans thoroughly. This crucial step prevents the cake from sticking.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting removes lumps and ensures even distribution.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake.
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Pour & Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared baking pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Frost (Optional): Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, you can frost your sponge cake with your favorite frosting or glaze.
IV. Tips for Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and milk helps create a lighter and fluffier cake.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check if the cake is baked through. If it comes out clean, it's ready.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
V. Serving Suggestions:
This versatile sponge cake is delicious on its own or paired with fresh fruit, whipped cream, ice cream, or your favorite frosting. It's perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a simple afternoon treat.
By following these detailed instructions, you'll be well on your way to baking a perfect sponge cake. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! Remember to experiment and adapt the recipe to your own preferences. Happy baking!