Vanilla Sponge Cake

Vanilla sponge cake is a classic and versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for various other desserts like layered cakes or trifles.

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or beat by hand with a wooden spoon.
4. Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can result in a dense cake.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once the cake has cooled, you can frost it with your preferred frosting, glaze it, or serve it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar. It's also delicious when filled with fruit preserves, whipped cream, or buttercream frosting.

This vanilla sponge cake is light, tender, and has a delicate vanilla flavor. It serves as a wonderful base for many dessert creations or can be enjoyed on its own with a cup of tea or coffee.