How to Make a Traditional British Victoria Sponge Cake
The Victoria Sponge Cake is one of Britain’s most iconic and beloved cakes. Named after Queen Victoria, who was known to enjoy a slice with her afternoon tea, this light and fluffy sponge is a staple of British baking. With its simple yet elegant combination of sponge, jam, and cream, the Victoria Sponge is perfect for tea parties, birthdays, and gatherings.
Ingredients
For the sponge cake:
- 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 200g (1 cup) caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 200g (1 ⅔ cups) self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the filling:
- 100g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 200g (1 ½ cups) icing sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3-4 tbsp strawberry or raspberry jam
- 2 tbsp double cream (optional)
For dusting:
- Icing sugar
Equipment Needed
- Two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Sieve
- Spatula
- Wire cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Tins
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan ovens. Grease the cake tins with butter and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until the mixture becomes pale, light, and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft sponge with a good rise.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and beat them lightly with a fork. Slowly add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. If the mixture begins to curdle, add a tablespoon of flour to stabilize it.
Step 4: Fold in the Dry Ingredients
Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder into the bowl. Using a spatula or metal spoon, gently fold the flour into the mixture using a figure-eight motion. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense sponge.
Step 5: Add the Milk and Vanilla
Stir in the milk and vanilla extract to loosen the batter slightly. This helps achieve a smooth, pourable consistency that ensures an even bake.
Step 6: Divide the Batter and Bake
Evenly divide the batter between the two cake tins and smooth the tops with a spatula. Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and spring back when gently pressed.
To check for doneness, insert a skewer into the center of a cake—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the tins for 5-10 minutes. Then, carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before adding the filling.
Preparing the Filling
Step 8: Make the Buttercream
In a bowl, beat the softened butter, icing sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of double cream for extra silkiness, if desired.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Place one sponge cake on a serving plate and spread the strawberry or raspberry jam evenly across the surface. Then, pipe or spread the buttercream on top of the jam layer. Gently place the second sponge on top and lightly press down.
Step 10: Dust and Serve
To finish, dust the top of the cake with icing sugar for a classic look. Slice and serve with a cup of tea for the ultimate British experience!
Tips for a Perfect Victoria Sponge
- Use room temperature ingredients for a well-mixed and airy batter.
- Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly to incorporate air for a lighter sponge.
- Avoid overmixing the flour to keep the sponge soft and fluffy.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding the filling to prevent melting the buttercream.
- For a more traditional touch, use only jam as the filling (without buttercream) and serve with whipped cream on the side.
Final Thoughts
The Victoria Sponge Cake is a timeless British classic that never fails to impress. Its simplicity, elegance, and delightful taste make it a must-bake for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or just craving a delicious homemade treat, this cake is a perfect choice.