Name: Mini Chinese Sponge Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-485249H23S
Total time: PT-485249H23S
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: Eggs; Sugar; Cake flour; Baking powder; Milk; Vegetable oil; Vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light and Fluffy Texture: The sponge cake’s airy consistency makes it a delightful treat that isn’t overly heavy.
Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry items, this recipe is straightforward and easy to prepare.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these mini cakes on their own, with a cup of tea, or topped with fresh fruits and whipped cream.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a special gathering, these mini sponge cakes fit the bill.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Eggs
Sugar
Cake flour
Baking powder
Milk
Vegetable oil
Vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 170°C (340°F) and prepare your mini cake molds or muffin tin by lightly greasing them or lining with paper cups.
Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they become foamy.
- Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Sift together the cake flour and baking powder, then gently fold into the egg mixture.
- Combine milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl, then slowly incorporate into the batter, mixing until just combined.
Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared molds, filling each about 70% full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
- Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the molds for a few minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 12 mini sponge cakes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
Matcha Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of matcha powder for a green tea-infused sponge cake.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cooled mini sponge cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing: Wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave a cake for 10-15 seconds or reheat in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

How do I ensure my sponge cakes are fluffy?

Ensure that you beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture is light and airy, as this incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the fluffiness.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, but cake flour yields a softer texture. If using all-purpose flour, consider removing 2 tablespoons per cup and replacing it with cornstarch.

Why did my sponge cakes deflate after baking?

This could be due to underbaking or overmixing the batter, which can cause the cakes to collapse as they cool.

Can I make these cakes in a regular muffin tin?

Absolutely. A standard muffin tin works well; just adjust the baking time as needed.

Is it necessary to sift the flour?

Sifting helps to aerate the flour and remove lumps, resulting in a smoother batter and lighter cake.

Can I add fruits to the batter?

Yes, but use small, chopped fruits and fold them in gently to prevent sinking.

How do I know when the cakes are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cakes are ready.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, doubling the ingredients is fine. Just ensure even mixing and adjust baking times accordingly.

What type of oil is best to use?

A neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil is ideal to maintain the delicate flavor of the sponge cakes.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake the batter immediately after preparation to retain the airiness and achieve the desired texture.

Conclusion

Mini Chinese sponge cakes are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with elegance. Their light texture and subtle sweetness make them a versatile addition to any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with tea or as a dessert, these mini cakes are sure to please.