Traditional Savoy Sponge Cake
A classic French dessert, Traditional Savoy Sponge Cake is light, airy, and perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe draws on traditional techniques to create a delightful cake that pairs beautifully with fresh fruits or cream.

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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the 4 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes thick and pale, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix until combined.
- 4
Sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a separate bowl.
- 5
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the batter.
- 6
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- 7
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 8
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- 9
Once completely cool, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.
Cook notes
Tips
Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can freeze the sponge cake for up to a month; wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Substitutions
- Use 1/2 cup of honey instead of granulated sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Replace eggs with 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version.
What to Serve With
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Light fruit compote
Common Mistakes
- Mixing the batter too vigorously which can deflate the air bubbles.
- Not sifting the flour, which can lead to a dense cake.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, cake flour can be used for a finer texture, but all-purpose flour yields great results too.
How can I store leftover sponge cake?
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I serve with Savoy Sponge Cake?
This cake pairs well with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a light fruit compote.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Baking sheet
Useful for roasting, baking, broiling, and sheet-pan prep.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Skillet
Useful for browning, quick sautes, and weeknight one-pan cooking.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
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