As a seasoned food blogger, I adore the timeless elegance of a Classic Victoria Sponge Cake. This beloved British dessert, with its light and airy sponge layers filled with luscious whipped cream and sweet strawberry jam, embodies simplicity and charm. A true classic, my Victoria Sponge recipe captures the essence of this traditional treat effortlessly.
The delicate balance of flavors in a Victoria Sponge Cake is a testament to its enduring popularity. Whether enjoyed during a teatime gathering or as a centerpiece for a special celebration, this cake never fails to delight. With each bite of this fluffy sponge, complemented by the richness of Irish cream and the sweetness of strawberry jam, you’ll understand why this humble dessert holds a special place in the hearts of many.
Perfect for any occasion, from elegant afternoon teas to joyous festivities, the Victoria Sponge Cake is a delightful indulgence that promises to please every palate.
Ingredients
For a perfect Classic Victoria Sponge Cake, gather the following ingredients for the sponge and filling.
Sponge Ingredients
- 2 cups self-rising flour (240g)
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (227g)
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (225g)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (divided)
- ½ cup heavy cream (120ml)
- 1 tablespoon confectioners sugar (plus more for dusting)
- ⅓ cup strawberry jam (80ml/110g)
Required Tools and Equipment
To create a delightful Classic Victoria Sponge Cake, you will need a few essential tools and equipment to ensure your baking experience is smooth and successful. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Tools:
- Two 8-inch round cake pans
- Parchment paper
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Wire cooling rack
- 2 cups self-rising flour (240g)
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (227g)
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (225g)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (divided)
- ½ cup heavy cream (120ml)
- 1 tablespoon confectioners sugar, plus more for dusting
- ⅓ cup strawberry jam (80ml/110g)
Make sure to gather these tools and equipment before starting the baking process to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Preparation
Preparing the Ingredients
To kick off the preparation process, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients ready to create your delightful Classic Victoria Sponge Cake. Begin by sifting together the self-rising flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. Then, in a separate mixing bowl or the stand mixer bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and combined. Proceed to beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the addition of milk and a dash of vanilla extract.
Preheating the Oven
It’s time to set the stage for baking perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the ideal environment for your scrumptious cake layers. Ensure your round 8-inch cake pans are greased with butter and lined with parchment paper for easy removal later on. Maintaining the right oven temperature is crucial for achieving that golden-brown hue and fluffy texture that make a Classic Victoria Sponge Cake truly irresistible.
Directions
Making the Sponge
To start making the classic Victoria Sponge cake, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a stand mixer or handheld electric mixer. This step is crucial for creating a light and airy cake texture. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Gradually mix in the self-rising flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter. Finish by stirring in the milk to bring the batter together.
Whipping the Cream
For the perfect finishing touch to your Victoria Sponge cake, whisk the heavy whipping cream until medium peaks form. This whipped cream will be used to add a luscious layer of creaminess in between the cake layers. Be sure not to overwhip the cream, as medium peaks hold their shape well and provide a delightful texture to the cake. Whip the cream just enough to achieve the desired consistency for spreading and filling the cake.
Assembly
Assembling the Victoria Sponge Cake is where the magic happens. Follow these steps carefully to create a stunning and delicious cake that will impress your guests.
Layering the Cake
- Place one of the cooled cake layers on a decorative plate.
- Slather a thick layer of raspberry jam on the cake.
- Dollop most of the whipped cream on the raspberry jam and spread gently, reserving some whipped cream for later.
- Sandwich the second layer of cake on top of the jam and cream.
- To garnish, sprinkle a nice layer of powdered sugar over the cake. Use a small sieve and gently dust the sugar over the cake.
- Dollop a little whipped cream on top of the cake and maybe on one or two sides for a decorative touch.
- Arrange fresh raspberries on the dollops of cream.
- Optional: Add a fresh mint sprig for a pop of color and presentation.
- Ensure all ingredients, like eggs, butter, and milk, are at room temperature before starting.
- Avoid opening the oven while the cake is baking to prevent sinking.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before adding the jam and whipped cream.
- Don’t skip sifting the dry ingredients to ensure a consistent texture for the sponge cake.
Decorating
Decorating the classic Victoria Sponge Cake adds the final touch of elegance to this delicious treat. Here are some optional garnishes to elevate the presentation of your cake:
- Edible flowers: Add a pop of color and a touch of whimsy with edible flowers as a decorative element for your cake.
- Whole pink peppercorns: These can be used sparingly as a unique and flavorful addition to the cake’s decoration.
- Fresh strawberries with stems: Use whole strawberries with the stems left on to decorate the top of the cake, adding a fresh and vibrant look.
- Dusting of confectioners sugar: A light dusting of confectioners sugar not only adds sweetness but also enhances the visual appeal of the cake.
Serving and Storage
How to Serve
When serving the classic Victoria sponge cake, slice it into neat portions with a sharp knife to showcase the delicate layers of sponge, jam, and cream. Place each slice on a decorative serving plate for an elegant presentation. For an extra special touch, garnish each slice with a dusting of confectioners sugar and a fresh whole strawberry on top.
Storage Tips
To preserve the freshness of the Victoria sponge, store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Avoid refrigerating the cake as it can dry out the sponge. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake slices in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Before serving, allow the frozen slices to thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight for the best texture.
Conclusion
I’ve shared valuable insights on crafting the perfect Classic Victoria Sponge Cake, from mastering ingredient preparation to assembling and decorating with finesse. Remember, room temperature ingredients and patience are key to a light and fluffy sponge. Avoiding common pitfalls like overmixing and premature cake cutting will ensure a delightful treat every time. Get creative with decorations like edible flowers and confectioners sugar to elevate the visual appeal. When it comes to serving and storage, follow the recommended practices for a delectable experience from the first bite to the last. With these tips in mind, you’re all set to impress with your own version of this timeless dessert.