Golden Butter Sponge Cake Recipe

 Golden Butter Sponge Cake is a timeless dessert that embodies the essence of home baking. With its soft, airy crumb and rich buttery flavor, this cake rises beautifully in the oven, forming a natural crack across the top—a hallmark of a well-baked sponge. The crust is golden and slightly crisp, while the interior remains moist, fluffy, and delicately sweet.


This cake is versatile and forgiving. It can be served plain with tea, dressed up with whipped cream and fruit, or layered with frosting for celebrations. The recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and a method that balances airiness with richness. The butter adds depth, while the eggs provide structure and lift. A touch of vanilla rounds out the flavor, making each bite comforting and satisfying.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this sponge cake delivers consistent results. It’s designed to be baked in a round pan, but can easily be adapted for loaf tins, cupcakes, or layered cakes. The recipe includes tips for texture, flavor variations, and presentation ideas to make it your own.

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🧺 INGREDIENTS:
Dry Ingredients:

    1½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
    1½ teaspoons baking powder
    ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

    ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
    1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
    4 large eggs, room temperature
    1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    ¼ cup (60ml) milk (whole or 2%)

Optional Add-ins:

    Zest of 1 lemon or orange
    ½ teaspoon almond extract
    1 tablespoon sour cream or yogurt (for extra moisture)

🍽️ INSTRUCTION:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

    Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F).
    Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
    Lightly dust the sides with flour for easy release.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
    Whisk to combine evenly and set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

    In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy and pale.
    
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    Add sugar gradually and beat for 3–5 minutes until light and fluffy.
    Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavor

    Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
    Stir in vanilla extract and optional zest or almond extract.
    
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    The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

    Add dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with milk.
    Begin and end with dry ingredients.
    Mix gently with a spatula or low-speed mixer—do not overmix.
    If using sour cream or yogurt, fold it in at the end.

Step 6: Bake

    Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
    Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
    Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
    
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    The top will crack naturally as the cake rises—this is a good sign.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

    Let cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
    Turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.
    Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with whipped cream and fruit.

🍴 SERVINGS:

This recipe yields 8–10 slices. For smaller portions, bake in two 6-inch pans and slice thinner. For cupcakes, divide batter into 12 lined muffin cups and bake for 20–25 minutes.
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📝 NOTE:

    Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake a day ahead and store covered at room temperature. Flavor deepens overnight.
    Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Refrigerate if frosted.
    Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
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    Flavor Variations:
        Add cocoa powder to make a chocolate sponge.
        Fold in chopped nuts or dried fruit for texture.
        Use brown sugar for a caramel-like depth.
    Texture Tips:
        Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.
        Cream butter and sugar thoroughly for airiness.
        Don’t overmix once flour is added—this keeps the crumb tender.
       
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    Presentation Ideas:
        Serve with berry compote or citrus glaze.
        Layer with jam and whipped cream for a Victoria sponge.
        Top with ganache or buttercream for celebrations.

🍮 OTHER RECIPES TO COMPLEMENT:

These recipes pair beautifully with Golden Butter Sponge Cake, offering variety in flavor, texture, and occasion. They follow similar principles of elegance, comfort, and crowd-pleasing simplicity.
1. Vanilla Custard Sauce

A silky, egg-based sauce flavored with vanilla. Serve warm over sponge cake slices for a classic dessert.
2. Berry Compote

Quick stovetop sauce made with mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Spoon over cake or serve on the side.
3. Lemon Glaze

Simple glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle over cooled cake for a tangy finish.
4. Whipped Cream Frosting

Light and airy frosting made with heavy cream and a touch of vanilla. Perfect for layering or topping.
5. Chocolate Ganache

Rich, glossy ganache made with dark chocolate and cream. Pour over sponge cake for a decadent twist.
6. Fruit Salad with Mint

Fresh seasonal fruits tossed with mint and citrus. Serve alongside cake for a refreshing contrast.
🎀 FINAL THOUGHTS:

Golden Butter Sponge Cake is more than a dessert—it’s a celebration of simplicity, tradition, and the joy of baking. Its crackled top, golden crust, and soft interior make it instantly recognizable and deeply comforting. Whether you’re baking for a quiet afternoon, a festive table, or a heartfelt gift, this cake delivers warmth and delight in every slice.

Its versatility invites creativity. Add flavors, layer it, frost it, or serve it plain. Make it your signature or adapt it seasonally. It’s a recipe that rewards care and invites sharing—a true classic that never goes out of style.