Best Chinese Sponge cake recipe – Easy baked cakes

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The best Chinese Sponge Cake recipe – baked and delicious! Let me tell you why Chinese sponge cake is an absolutely fantastic, Moist and Tender Cake and why you and your whole family are going to love this delicious Chinese Egg Cake!

Chinese sponge cake is a delightful treat that brings together the perfect balance of lightness, moistness, and delicate flavors. With its fluffy texture and subtle sweetness, this cake is a true delight for your taste buds.

One of the greatest things about Chinese sponge cake is its versatility. You can enjoy it as is, savoring the simple elegance of its taste, or you can get creative and pair it with various accompaniments. Whether you choose to top it with fresh fruits, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream, the options are endless and allow you to personalize your cake-eating experience.

The light and airy texture and tender crumb of this Authentic Chinese recipe for sponge cake is what sets it apart. Every bite is a heavenly experience, with the cake practically melting in your mouth. It’s the kind of cake that’s perfect for any occasion – be it a cozy afternoon tea, a family gathering, or a celebration. Its lightness makes it wonderfully satisfying without being too heavy, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter dessert option.

Why you need to make this delicious Fluffy Sponge cake

This Fluffy Sponge Cake is not only a joy to eat but also a joy to make. Baking it fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma that will have your senses dancing in anticipation. And when you finally take that first bite, the reward is simply delightful.

So get ready to indulge in the softness, the moistness, and the gentle sweetness of Chinese sponge cake. It’s a dessert that’s sure to put a smile on your face and leave you craving for more. Enjoy every bite, savor every moment, and let the joy of this wonderful cake brighten your day!

In this Easy Bakery Style Chinese Sponge Cake Recipe we’re covering

• History of Chinese sponge cake
• How to traditionally serve Chinese sponge cake
• Tips and tricks for making the best Chinese sponge cake
• Equipment to bake Chinese chiffon cake
• Best traditional Chinese Sponge Cake recipe
• Easy vegan Chinese Sponge Cake Recipe
• How to store sponge cake
• Japanese cotton sponge cake vs Chinese sponge cake
• How to keep cake moist
• Cake meal vs flour
• Ways to serve Sponge cake
• FAQs

Origins of Chinese Sponge Cake

Chinese sponge cake, also known as “Ma Lai Gao” in Cantonese, has its origins in southern China, particularly in the Guangdong province. It is believed to have been introduced during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) and has since become a popular dessert in Chinese cuisine.

The cake’s name, “Ma Lai Gao,” has Cantonese roots and translates to “steamed cake” or “Malay cake.” The term “Malay” in this context refers to the historical influence of Southeast Asian cultures on southern China, including Malaysia and Indonesia.

Chinese sponge cake was initially made using simple ingredients such as eggs, sugar, flour, and yeast. The use of yeast helped the cake rise and develop its characteristic fluffy texture. Over time, the recipe evolved, and baking powder replaced yeast as a leavening agent, resulting in a lighter and more consistent texture, almost like a chiffon cake.

Chinese sponge cake has become a staple in Chinese bakeries and households, enjoyed during various occasions such as Chinese New Year, birthdays, and as an everyday Classic Chinese Treat. Its popularity has also spread beyond China, becoming a favorite among Chinese communities worldwide and gaining recognition in international cuisine.

Today, Chinese sponge cake represents a delicious blend of traditional Chinese baking techniques and flavors, offering a delightful taste of Chinese culinary heritage.

How is Chinese Sponge Cake traditionally served

Chinese sponge cake is traditionally served as a delightful treat during teatime or as a dessert on special occasions. There are a few traditional ways to enjoy this delectable cake:

1. On Its Own: Chinese sponge cake can be enjoyed as is, without any additional toppings or accompaniments. Its delicate flavor and airy texture shine through, making it a light and satisfying treat on its own.

2. With Tea: As part of Chinese teatime tradition, sponge cake is often enjoyed alongside a hot cup of tea. The subtle sweetness of the cake pairs wonderfully with the aromatic flavors of different teas, creating a harmonious and relaxing experience.

3. Topped with Fresh Fruit: To enhance the cake’s visual appeal and add a touch of freshness, you can serve Chinese sponge cake with a selection of fresh fruit. Sliced strawberries, kiwi, or raspberries make beautiful and delicious additions that complement the cake’s flavors.

4. Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Another simple and elegant way to serve Chinese sponge cake is by lightly dusting it with powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish to the cake.

5. Whipped Cream or Custard: For those who enjoy a creamier indulgence, you can serve Chinese sponge cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of vanilla custard. The creamy richness pairs wonderfully with the lightness of the cake, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Remember, these serving suggestions are just the beginning! Feel free to get creative and experiment with your own personal twists and accompaniments to make the Chinese sponge cake experience even more delightful for you and your guests. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Making the best Chinese Sponge Cake recipe

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best sponge cake:

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before starting. This helps with better mixing and achieving a lighter texture.

2. Proper Mixing: When combining the dry ingredients with the egg yolk mixture, ensure that you mix until just combined. Use a handheld whisk, or a whisk attachment on your electric mixer to whisk the Chinese bakery cakes batter into soft peaks. Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Use a gentle folding motion to incorporate the egg whites into the batter, maintaining as much air as possible.

3. Stiff Egg Whites: Be sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for a fluffy texture. Avoid any traces of egg yolk in the whites, as it can hinder proper whipping.

4. Greased Cake Pan: Grease the cake pan properly to prevent sticking. You can use butter or cooking spray and line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal.

5. Preheated Oven: Make sure your oven is preheated to the specified temperature. This ensures even baking and proper rising of the cake.

6. Avoid Opening the Oven: Once the cake is in the oven, try to resist the temptation to open the oven door frequently. Sudden temperature changes can cause the cake to deflate.

Extra tips

7. Cooling the Cake: After removing the cake from the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent the cake from breaking apart.

8. Experiment with Flavors: While the basic recipe calls for vanilla extract, feel free to experiment with other flavors such as almond extract, citrus zest, or even matcha powder to add a unique twist to your sponge cake.

Remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t turn out exactly as desired. With a bit of practice and these tips, you’ll be able to master the art of making delicious Chinese sponge cake. Enjoy!

Equipment needed to make Baked Chinese sponge cake

To make Chinese sponge cake, you’ll need the following equipment:

1. Mixing Bowls: Use medium-sized mixing bowls to separate the egg whites and yolks and to mix the cake batter.

2. Whisk or Electric Mixer: A whisk or an electric mixer is needed to beat the egg yolks with sugar and to whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form. An electric mixer is recommended for easier and faster beating.

3. Sifter: A sifter or sieve is used to sift the cake flour and baking powder, ensuring they are well-mixed and free from lumps.

4. Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A spatula or wooden spoon is ideal for gently folding the whipped egg whites into the cake batter. It helps maintain the airiness of the mixture.

5. Round Cake Pan: A round cake pan is traditionally used to bake Chinese sponge cake. It should be about 8 or 9 inches in diameter. Grease the pan before pouring in the batter to prevent sticking.

6. Oven: A standard kitchen oven is necessary for baking the cake. Preheat the oven to the specified temperature mentioned in the recipe.

7. Wire Rack: A wire rack is useful for cooling the cake after baking. It allows air to circulate around the cake and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.

8. Optional: Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray: You can line the bottom of the cake pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal. Alternatively, you can use cooking spray or butter to grease the pan.

These are the basic equipment needed to make Chinese sponge cake. Make sure you have them ready before starting the baking process. Enjoy your homemade sponge cake!

The Best Easy Traditional Chinese Sponge Cake Recipe

Here’s a delicious recipe for Chinese sponge cake with measurements in cups and grams:

Best baked Chinese Sponge cake Ingredients:

• 4 eggs
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (120g) cake flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chinese Sponge Cake recipe Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a round cake pan.

2. Separate the egg whites and yolks into two different bowls.

3. In the bowl with egg yolks, add sugar and whisk until well combined and creamy.

4. Sift cake flour and baking powder into the egg yolk batter. Mix the egg mixture well.

5. Add milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the batter and mix until smooth.

6. In the bowl with egg whites, beat them using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.

7. Gently fold the egg white mixture into the batter using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix and deflate the batter.

8. Pour the batter into the greased cake pan and smooth the top.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then transfer the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Note: I like to use a greased springform pan to make these family favorite cakes. But a muffin tin also work great for making lots of smaller portion sized soft sponge cake as opposed to one large cake. 

Enjoy your homemade Chinese sponge cake!

Vegan Chinese Sponge cake recipe

Vegan Chinese sponge cake is a wonderful treat that brings together the goodness of a classic Chinese dessert with the principles of veganism. To make the traditional Chinese baked sponge cake vegan requires a few easy to implement alterations from the traditional to get that same fluffy texture. 

Here’s what makes Popular Chinese Sweet vegan sponge cake truly special:

1. Light and Fluffy Texture: Just like its traditional counterpart, vegan Chinese sponge cake boasts a light and airy texture that melts in your mouth. It’s a delight to bite into its soft and tender crumb.

2. Vegan-Friendly Ingredients: This version of the cake uses plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for those following a vegan lifestyle. With almond milk replacing dairy and vegetable oil in place of butter, you can indulge in this cake while staying true to your dietary choices.

3. Customizable Flavors: The beauty of vegan Chinese sponge cake lies in its versatility. You can play around with flavors and add variations like citrus zest, almond extract, add mango fruit to make it a delicious mango cake, or even cocoa powder to create a personalized touch that suits your taste preferences.

4. Celebration and Everyday Delight: Vegan Chinese sponge cake is perfect for both special occasions and everyday indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, Chinese Lunar New Year, or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake is a delightful choice that brings joy to any moment.

5. Sharing and Enjoyment: Just like its non-vegan counterpart, vegan Chinese sponge cake is meant to be shared and enjoyed with loved ones. It’s a dessert that brings people together, creating moments of happiness and connection.

So, get ready to relish the lightness, savor the flavors, and delight in every bite of this vegan Chinese sponge cake. It’s a wonderful dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also aligns with your compassionate choices. Enjoy the goodness and share the love!

Vegan Chinese sponge cake – sponge cake as light and airy as regular Chinese New Year Dessert

Best vegan Chinese Pastry Recipe Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240ml) almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 ¾ cups (210g) cake flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Chinese Sponge Cake Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a round cake pan.

2. In a measuring cup, combine almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Set it aside for a few minutes to curdle and create a vegan buttermilk substitute.

3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, cake flour, and baking powder until well combined.

4. Add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and the prepared vegan buttermilk to the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.

5. Pour the batter into the greased cake pan and smooth the top.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then transfer the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your vegan Chinese sponge cake! You can also add variations like citrus zest or other extracts to customize the flavor to your liking.

Note: You can also divide the cake batter into portion sizes and bake in muffin tins – just adjust the baking time.

How to store Chinese Sponge Cake

To store Chinese sponge cake, follow these Step-by-Step Sponge Cake storage instructions:

1. Allow the cake to cool completely before storing it. If it’s still warm, moisture can build up and make the cake soggy.

2. Once the cake has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This helps to prevent it from drying out and keeps it fresh.

3. Store the wrapped or containerized cake at room temperature in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator unless the recipe specifically calls for it, as refrigeration can alter the texture of the cake.

4. Chinese sponge cake can typically be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days. However, the exact storage time can vary depending on the specific recipe and the ingredients used. Check the recipe or use your judgment to determine the optimal storage duration.

Remember, freshness is key when it comes to enjoying Chinese sponge cake, so it’s best to consume it within a few days of baking for the best taste and texture.

Is Japanese cotton sponge cake the same as Chinese sponge cake

While Japanese cotton sponge cake and Chinese sponge cake share some similarities, they are not exactly the same. Here are the key differences between the two:

Texture: Japanese cotton sponge cake is known for its extremely light and delicate texture. It has a fluffy, cotton-like consistency with a fine crumb structure. On the other hand, Chinese sponge cake has a slightly denser texture compared to Japanese cotton sponge cake, though it is still light and airy.

Ingredients: Japanese cotton sponge cake typically uses a combination of whole eggs, sugar, cake flour, and sometimes cornstarch. Chinese sponge cake traditionally calls for eggs, sugar, cake flour, and baking powder. The use of cornstarch in Japanese cotton sponge cake contributes to its unique texture.

Preparation Method: The preparation method for Japanese cotton sponge cake involves separating the eggs and beating the egg whites separately until stiff peaks form. This creates a meringue-like consistency that contributes to the cake’s airy texture. Chinese sponge cake may or may not involve separating the eggs, but it generally does not require whipping the egg whites separately.

Flavor: Both cakes have a mild and subtle flavor, allowing them to be versatile and paired with various toppings or fillings. However, Japanese cotton sponge cake may have a slightly richer and eggy taste due to the higher proportion of eggs used in the recipe.

While Japanese cotton sponge cake and Chinese sponge cake have their own unique characteristics, they are both delicious desserts that are enjoyed in their respective culinary traditions.

How to keep cake moist

To keep a sponge cake moist, you can follow these tips:

1. Proper Cooling: Allow the sponge cake to cool completely after removing it from the oven. Place it on a wire rack to ensure even air circulation, which helps prevent condensation and keeps the cake from becoming soggy.

2. Storage Container: Once the cake is fully cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps to retain moisture and prevents the cake from drying out.

3. Room Temperature Storage: Sponge cakes are typically stored at room temperature, unless the recipe specifies otherwise. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the cold temperature can dry out the cake.

4. Layer Separation: If you plan to layer or fill the sponge cake, it’s advisable to assemble it shortly before serving. This prevents the filling from seeping into the cake layers, which can make it soggy over time.

5. Syrup Soaking (Optional): If you want to add extra moisture to the cake, you can brush a simple syrup or flavored syrup onto the cake layers before assembling. This can help keep the cake moist and add additional flavor.

6. Consume Within a Few Days: Sponge cakes are best enjoyed within a few days of baking when they are at their freshest. Over time, the moisture content can decrease, affecting the texture and taste. Therefore, try to consume the cake within the recommended storage duration mentioned in the recipe or within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

By following these tips, you can help maintain the moistness of your sponge cake and enjoy it with a delightful texture and flavor.

Cake meal vs flour

In traditional Chinese and Japanese sponge cake recipes, the use of cake meal and flour can vary. Here’s an explanation of each:

1. Cake Meal: Cake meal, also known as superfine flour or low-protein flour, is a finely ground flour made from soft wheat. It has a lower protein content compared to all-purpose flour, which contributes to a tender and delicate texture in baked goods. Cake meal is often used in sponge cake recipes to achieve a softer and lighter crumb. It helps create a cake with a fine texture and a melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

2. Flour: Flour refers to all-purpose flour, which is a versatile type of flour commonly used in baking. All-purpose flour has a moderate protein content, making it suitable for a wide range of baked goods. While it may not result in as delicate a texture as cake meal, using all-purpose flour can still yield a satisfactory sponge cake. The resulting cake may have a slightly denser texture compared to one made with cake meal.

When deciding whether to use cake meal or flour for your sponge cake recipe, consider the desired texture and consistency you want to achieve. If you’re aiming for an exceptionally light and delicate sponge cake, cake meal is the preferred choice. However, if you don’t have cake meal on hand, using all-purpose flour can still produce a tasty sponge cake, albeit with a slightly different texture.

Angel food cake vs sponge cake

Angel food cake and sponge cake are both light and airy cakes, but they differ in their ingredients and preparation methods, resulting in distinct textures and flavors. Here’s a comparison between the two:

Ingredients:

– Angel Food Cake: Angel food cake is primarily made with egg whites, sugar, and cake flour. It does not contain egg yolks or fat, such as butter or oil. The high proportion of egg whites gives it a fluffy and meringue-like texture.

– Sponge Cake: Sponge cake typically uses whole eggs, sugar, and flour. It can include either cake flour or all-purpose flour. Sponge cake recipes often call for some fat, such as butter or oil, which contributes to its tender and moist texture.

Leavening:

– Angel Food Cake: Angel food cake relies solely on the air trapped in the whipped egg whites to provide leavening. No chemical leavening agents, such as baking powder or baking soda, are used in the recipe.

– Sponge Cake: Sponge cake relies on both the air beaten into the eggs and a small amount of baking powder or baking soda for leavening. This results in a slightly more risen and spongy texture compared to angel food cake.

Texture and Taste:

– Angel Food Cake: Angel food cake has a light and fluffy texture, with a delicate crumb that resembles a cloud. It is less dense and more springy compared to sponge cake. The absence of fat gives it a subtly sweet flavor with hints of vanilla and egg whites.

– Sponge Cake: Sponge cake has a tender and moist texture, with a slightly denser crumb compared to angel food cake. The addition of fat contributes to its richness and moistness. Sponge cake has a more pronounced buttery flavor and can be flavored with various extracts, such as vanilla or citrus zest.

Usage:

– Angel Food Cake: Angel food cake is often served plain or with a light glaze, as its delicate texture and subtle sweetness are best enjoyed on their own. It is a popular choice for strawberry shortcake or as a base for layered desserts.

– Sponge Cake: Sponge cake is versatile and commonly used as a base for various desserts. It can be layered, filled with creams or fruits, and frosted. Sponge cake is also used in making jelly rolls, Swiss rolls, or individual cake slices.

In summary, while both angel food cake and sponge cake are airy and light, they differ in ingredients, leavening methods, texture, and taste. Angel food cake relies on whipped egg whites and lacks fat, resulting in a delicate and fluffy texture, while sponge cake includes whole eggs and fat for a slightly denser and more moist texture.

What makes a cake dense vs fluffy

The texture of a cake can vary between dense and fluffy based on several factors. Here are the main factors that contribute to each texture:

1. Traditional Chinese dessert Ingredients: The type and quantity of ingredients used in a cake can affect its texture. Cakes that are meant to be dense often contain ingredients that contribute to a denser texture, such as butter, oil, or ingredients with higher fat content. These ingredients add richness and moisture, resulting in a denser crumb. On the other hand, cakes that aim for a fluffy texture tend to use ingredients like egg whites or baking powder/soda, which create air pockets and lift the batter during baking.

2. Mixing Method: The mixing method used when combining the ingredients can impact the texture of the cake. Overmixing the batter can lead to gluten development, resulting in a denser texture. For cakes that should be fluffy, it’s important to mix the batter until just combined, avoiding excessive stirring.

3. Leavening Agents: Leavening agents like baking powder and baking soda contribute to the rise and lightness of a cake. Using the appropriate amount of leavening agents in a recipe helps create a fluffy texture. However, using too much or too little can affect the cake’s texture, resulting in either a dense or overly airy outcome.

4. Mixing Technique: The technique used when incorporating air into the batter plays a crucial role in achieving a fluffy texture. For example, whipping egg whites separately and folding them gently into the batter can create a lighter and airier cake. This technique is commonly used in sponge cakes and angel food cakes.

Baking tips

5. Chinese Baking Recipe Oven Temperature: Baking at the correct temperature is important for the cake to rise properly. If the oven temperature is too low, the cake may not rise adequately and could end up dense. Alternatively, if the oven temperature is too high, the cake might rise too quickly and then collapse, resulting in a denser texture.

By considering these factors and following the appropriate techniques for the desired texture, you can achieve either a dense or fluffy cake, depending on your preference and the type of cake you’re aiming to bake.

Ways to serve Chinese sponge cake

Chinese sponge cake can be enjoyed in various delicious ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment of this delightful and Delicious Asian Cake:

1. Plain and Simple: Enjoy the delicate flavor and fluffy texture of Chinese sponge cake on its own. Slice the baked cake into individual servings and savor each bite. A slice of this cake is all you need to make it a tasty day.

2. Fresh Fruits: Pair slices of Chinese sponge cake with fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or mango slices. The combination of the sweet cake and juicy fruits creates a delightful contrast with the Chinese steamed sponge cake.

3. Whipped Cream or Custard: Top the sponge cake with a dollop of whipped cream frosting or a drizzle of creamy custard for added richness and flavor.

4. Jam or Fruit Compote: Spread a layer of your favorite jam or fruit compote on top of the sponge cake. The fruity sweetness complements the lightness of the tender cakes.

5. Matcha or Tea Infusions: Serve Chinese sponge cake alongside a cup of warm matcha tea or your favorite tea infusion. The earthy flavors of matcha or the aromatic notes of tea make for a delightful pairing with the fluffy simple cake.

6. Ice Cream: Create a unique dessert experience by serving Chinese sponge cake with a scoop of your favorite ice cream flavor. The contrast between the cool and creamy ice cream and the soft, airy cake is a treat for the senses.

7. Dessert Trifle: Layer cubes of Chinese sponge cake with fresh fruits, custard, and whipped cream in a glass dish to create a beautiful and indulgent trifle dessert.

Delicious extra dessert option

8. Asian Dessert Soups: In some Asian cuisines, such as Chinese and Malaysian, sponge cake is often added to sweet dessert soups. Try serving slices of Chinese sponge cake in a warm bowl of sweet red bean soup or ginger syrup for a comforting and unique dessert experience.

These serving ideas are just a starting point, and you can get creative by adding your own twists and combinations. The versatility of Chinese sponge cake allows it to be enjoyed in various ways, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

FAQs – frequently asked questions about Chinese sponge cake:

Chinese Sponge cake recipe storage and more

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