Victoria Sponge Cake Recipe: A Royal Treat for Your Table
There's nothing quite like a Victoria sponge cake to bring a touch of elegance to your table. Light, fluffy, and delightfully simple, this Victoria Sponge Cake Recipe is a timeless favourite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or just fancy a slice with your afternoon tea, the Victoria sponge cake never fails to impress.
History
Did you know that this cake has a regal connection? Named after Queen Victoria, it became a staple during her reign in the 19th century. Queen Victoria was known to enjoy a slice of sponge cake with her afternoon tea, a custom that became popular in the Victorian era. The simple yet delicious combination of jam and cream between two layers of sponge made it an instant classic and a beloved tradition that continues today.
Serving Suggestions
For a truly traditional experience, serve your Victoria sponge cake with a pot of freshly brewed tea. It pairs beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey or Darjeeling. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of fresh berries between the layers or on top for a burst of colour and flavour. A light dusting of icing sugar over the top gives it a classic finish.
Storing Instructions
To keep your Victoria sponge cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay delicious for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, you can freeze the cake layers (without filling) wrapped tightly in cling film for up to two months. Thaw completely at room temperature before assembling with jam and cream.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy baking and savouring this classic Victoria sponge cake. Share your baking adventures with us in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delightful recipes and culinary stories from Great Food Ireland.
How to Make Victoria Sponge Cake Recipe
- 225 g unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for greasing)
- 225 g caster sugar
- 4 large free-range eggs
- 225 g self-raising flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 150 g strawberry or raspberry jam
- 150 ml double cream, whipped
- Fresh berries and strawberries (optional)
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or Gas Mark 4. Grease and line two 20 cm (8-inch) round cake tins with baking parchment.
- Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and caster sugar until pale and creamy.
- Add Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. If the mixture starts to curdle, add a tablespoon of the flour.
- Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift in the self-raising flour and baking powder, then fold it into the mixture gently.
- Add Milk and Vanilla
Add the milk and vanilla extract (if using), and mix until well combined.
- Divide and Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared tins and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in Tins
Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for 5 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Layer with Jam
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the jam evenly over the top of the first cake layer.
- Add Cream and Berries
Spread the whipped cream over the jam. If using fresh berries, scatter them over the cream.
- Top with Second Layer
Place the second cake layer on top, pressing down gently.
- Dust with Icing Sugar
Dust the top of the cake with a little icing sugar before serving.
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- Calories from Fat 180kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Cholesterol 100mg34%
- Sodium 75mg4%
- Potassium 70mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 30g
- Protein 4g8%
- Vitamin A 600 IU
- Vitamin C 5 mg
- Calcium 40 mg
- Iron 1 mg
- Vitamin K 1 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
For the best results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking. This ensures a smoother batter and an even rise. Additionally, be gentle when folding in the flour to keep the batter light and airy. If you're short on time, you can use a high-quality store-bought jam, but homemade jam adds an extra special touch. Enjoy your baking!
Fiona O'Sullivan is the passionate editor of Great Food Ireland, a popular blog dedicated to celebrating traditional Irish cuisine and culinary heritage. With a rich background in food writing and a deep love for Ireland's gastronomic culture, Fiona brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her role. She curates authentic recipes, shares culinary stories, and explores the vibrant food scene across Ireland. Fiona's dedication to promoting Irish food traditions has made Great Food Ireland a beloved resource for food enthusiasts around the world.
