Fluffy Victoria Sponge Recipe: A Classic Treat Made Simple

Baking a classic victoria sponge cake brings pure joy to any afternoon tea gathering.

Soft, pillowy layers promise a delightful experience for cake enthusiasts.

Butter, eggs, and flour dance together in perfect harmony.

Mary berry’s beloved British classic feels like a warm culinary hug.

Delicate crumb and sweet jam create a nostalgic flavor profile.

Sweet memories of childhood afternoons spark with each tender slice.

You’ll want to slice into this dreamy creation and savor every crumbly, jam-filled moment.

Nigella Victoria Sponge Ingredients To Gather

• Butter: A rich ingredient that provides moisture and helps create a tender cake texture.
• Caster Sugar: Helps sweeten the cake and contributes to its light, airy structure.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure to the cake.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, classic flavor to the sponge cake.

• Self-Raising Flour: Provides the primary structure and helps the cake rise during baking.

• Strawberry Jam, Raspberry Jam: A sweet, fruity spread that adds moisture and flavor between cake layers.
• Whipped Cream: Creates a light, creamy filling that complements the sponge cake's texture.

• Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth cake batter consistency.

Baking Nigella Victoria Sponge Step By Step

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 180°C (350°F). Prepare two 8-inch cake pans by generously buttering the sides and lining the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Whip Up the Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light, airy, and looks like fluffy clouds. This process helps incorporate air and creates a soft texture.

Step 3: Introduce the Eggs

Crack eggs into the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Pour in vanilla extract and mix until everything is beautifully combined.

Step 4: Blend the Dry Ingredients

Gently fold flour into the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Use a delicate touch to keep the batter smooth and prevent overmixing, which can make the cake tough.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes. The cakes are ready when they’re golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Rest

Let the cakes rest in their pans for 5 minutes. Then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Create the Classic Sandwich

Once the cakes have cooled, spread a generous layer of strawberry jam on one cake layer. Top with billowy whipped cream, then place the second cake layer on top to complete this classic Victoria Sponge.

Tips To Help With Nigella Victoria Sponge Perfection

• Soften Butter Perfectly: Take butter out of the fridge 30-60 minutes before baking to reach room temperature for smooth, creamy mixing.
• Prevent Cake Cracking: Tap cake tins gently on the counter before baking to release air bubbles and ensure even rising.
• Check Doneness Accurately: Insert a wooden skewer into cake center; it should come out clean with no wet batter attached.
• Choose Quality Jam: Select a high-quality strawberry or raspberry jam with real fruit chunks for authentic British flavor.
• Whip Cream Carefully: Chill cream and bowl beforehand, and whip just until soft peaks form to avoid over-beating.

How To Change Up Nigella Victoria Sponge

• Gluten-Free Victoria Sponge: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap butter for coconut oil and use plant-based cream for lactose-intolerant bakers.
• Chocolate Victoria Sponge: Add cocoa powder to cake batter and use chocolate ganache instead of traditional jam filling.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener and use sugar-free jam for a diabetic-friendly cake.

Pairing Suggestions For Nigella Victoria Sponge

• Elevate Victoria Sponge Flavor Companions
• Brew Earl Grey Tea: Delicate bergamot notes perfectly complement the cake's sweet richness, creating a classic British afternoon tea experience.
• Select Rosé Wine Pairing: Light, crisp rosé cuts through the cake's buttery texture, offering a refreshing contrast that enhances the dessert's delicate flavor profile.
• Serve Lavender-Infused Lemonade: Floral undertones of lavender provide a subtle, sophisticated touch that balances the sweetness of jam and cream, creating a harmonious taste sensation.
• Garnish with Fresh Berries: Seasonal strawberries or raspberries add a burst of tartness that brightens the cake's creamy layers, introducing a vibrant freshness to each bite.

Best Way To Store Nigella Victoria Sponge

• Store the Victoria Sponge cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Wrap the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes.
• Gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them sit at room temperature for the best texture and flavor restoration.

Common Questions About Nigella Victoria Sponge

• What is the origin of Victoria Sponge?

This classic British cake is named after Queen Victoria, who enjoyed a slice of sponge cake with her afternoon tea during the 19th century.

• Can I use different types of jam?

Traditionally, strawberry jam is used, but you can experiment with raspberry, blackberry, or any other fruit jam you prefer.

• How do I prevent my cake from being dense?

Ensure ingredients are at room temperature, cream butter and sugar thoroughly, and avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.

• What's the best way to achieve an even cake rise?

Use fresh baking powder, measure ingredients accurately, and avoid opening the oven door too early during baking to prevent the cake from sinking.

Why Nigella Victoria Sponge Is A True Classic

• Craft with Ease: This Victoria Sponge requires minimal baking skills, making it perfect for beginners or casual home bakers wanting to impress.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: The recipe comes together in under an hour, delivering a classic British treat without demanding hours of preparation.
• Family Crowd-Pleaser: Featuring simple, beloved ingredients like jam and cream, this cake appeals to all ages, from kids to grandparents, ensuring smiles around the table.
• Versatile Celebration Star: Ideal for afternoon tea, birthdays, or casual gatherings, this sponge cake transforms ordinary moments into delightful celebrations with its elegant simplicity.

Victoria Sponge Recipe

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4.9 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Sweet layers of classic Victoria Sponge cake celebrate British baking heritage with light, airy sponge and luscious strawberry jam. Delicate vanilla-infused crumb and whipped cream create a quintessential teatime treat perfect for sharing with friends and family.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 225 grams (8 ounces) self-raising flour
• 225 grams (8 ounces) unsalted butter, soft
• 225 grams (8 ounces) caster sugar
• 4 eggs

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Liquid Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons whole milk

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Instructions

1. Heat oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare two 8-inch cake pans by greasing and lining with parchment paper.
2. Using an electric mixer, blend butter and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and airy, creating a smooth consistency.
3. Incorporate eggs gradually, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then blend in vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
4. Softly integrate flour and milk into the batter, stirring gently to maintain a light texture and prevent overmixing.
5. Distribute the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, ensuring smooth surfaces.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to rest in their pans for 5 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling.
8. Once cooled to room temperature, spread a generous layer of strawberry jam on one cake layer.
9. Top the jam with a billowing layer of freshly whipped cream.
10. Gently place the second cake layer on top, creating a classic Victoria sponge sandwich.
11. Dust the surface with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

• Room temperature ingredients ensure smooth mixing and prevent curdling, creating a tender cake texture.
• Sift flour before adding to eliminate lumps and create a lighter, more delicate sponge.
• Avoid overmixing the batter after adding flour to prevent a tough, dense cake.
• For a gluten-free version, replace wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain the classic Victoria sponge softness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 408kcal
• Sugar: 32g
• Sodium: 86mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 93mg