Step 1: Prepare the StrawberriesIn a small bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with 1 tablespoon of sugar (if using) and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Set aside while you prepare the cake batter.
Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake BatterPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.Add the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 3: Assemble the CakePour half of the sponge cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.Arrange the sugared strawberries over the batter in an even layer.Spoon the remaining batter over the strawberries, covering them completely.
Step 4: Bake the CakePlace the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.If the top starts browning too quickly, cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Cool and ServeRemove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Top with whipped cream, powdered sugar, or additional sliced strawberries if desired.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Sponge Cake with Strawberries turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
Use Room Temperature Eggs and Milk : These ingredients incorporate better into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake.Don’t Overmix : Stop stirring as soon as the batter is smooth to avoid creating a dense texture.Choose Ripe Strawberries : Fresh, ripe strawberries provide the best flavor and juiciness.Adjust Sweetness : If your strawberries are naturally sweet, you may omit the extra sugar.
Serving Suggestions
This Sponge Cake with Strawberries pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:
Whipped Cream : A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and contrast to each bite.Vanilla Ice Cream : Serve slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Caramel Sauce : Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness.Fresh Mint : Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Conclusion
The Sponge Cake with Strawberries recipe proves that great desserts don’t have to take all day to make. By following this guide, you’ll create a light, fluffy cake bursting with the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries—all in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress!
