Victoria Sponge Cake is one of the most iconic cakes in British baking. Named after Queen Victoria, who was known to enjoy a slice with her afternoon tea, this elegant yet simple cake has been a staple in homes, cafés, and bakeries for generations.
There is a quiet elegance to a Victoria Sponge Cake that no other dessert quite captures. My first true appreciation for it happened at a garden party in the heart of London, where a single, tall slice was served with nothing but a silver fork and a pot of Earl Grey. It was a masterclass in simplicity—the sponge was light and airy, held together by a rich layer of seedless raspberry jam and a perfectly smooth vanilla cream.
In my own kitchen, I’ve worked hard to master the ‘creaming method’ to ensure the sponge never feels heavy. It’s a cake that relies on the quality of its ingredients, from the freshness of the eggs to the hint of vanilla in the crumb. To me, it’s more than just a recipe; it’s a piece of history that brings a touch of royal sophistication to any afternoon.
Mastering the Elegance of a Professional Sponge
The appeal of a Victoria Sponge Cake lies in its light texture, balanced sweetness, and beautiful presentation, making it suitable for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. In professional British patisseries, the goal is to achieve a “cloud-like” crumb that remains sturdy enough to hold generous layers of preserve and cream.
This cake is traditionally made with two layers of soft sponge, sandwiched together with whipped cream and fruit jam. Unlike heavier cakes, the Victoria sponge focuses on simplicity and balance rather than richness. By perfecting the aeration of your butter and sugar, you ensure each bite offers a gentle sweetness and airy crumb that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea. Its straightforward ingredients and classic method make it ideal for beginner bakers while still delivering professional-looking results.
Classic Victoria Sponge Cake Recipe
Creating a high-standard Victoria Sponge Cake requires a focus on precision and temperature. To ensure the most delicate texture, professional bakers recommend having all ingredients at room temperature to allow for maximum air incorporation during the creaming stage. This method guarantees a sponge that rises evenly with a fine, uniform crumb, providing the perfect canvas for your favorite jams and freshly whipped double cream.
Serves: 8
Total Time: 50 minutes
Flavour Profile: Light, sweet, buttery, and delicate
Ingredients
- For the sponge:
- 200 g unsalted butter, softened
- 200 g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 200 g self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the filling:
- ½ cup strawberry or raspberry jam
- ¾ cup double cream, whipped
- For topping:
- Icing sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the cake tins:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line two round cake tins with baking paper.
- Make the cake batter:
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and caster sugar together until pale and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
- Fold in dry ingredients:
- Sift the flour and baking powder into the mixture. Add vanilla extract and gently fold until smooth, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake the sponges:
- Divide the batter evenly between the tins. Bake for 22–25 minutes until risen and lightly golden. A skewer inserted should come out clean.
- Cool and assemble:
- Allow the cakes to cool completely. Spread jam over one sponge, followed by whipped cream. Place the second sponge on top and dust with icing sugar.
🍽 Serving and Pro-Tips
Victoria Sponge Cake is best served fresh, allowing the cream to remain light and airy. It pairs perfectly with tea or coffee and works well as a celebration cake for birthdays, afternoon gatherings, or casual entertaining. For variation, fresh berries can be added to the filling for extra freshness and colour.
Nutrition*
- Per serving:
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Potassium: 110 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Calcium: 90 mg
- Iron: 1.8 mg
Try our other British classics like Sticky Toffee Pudding for a traditional dessert spread
*Nutrition data is calculated by an automated system and may vary, so it is provided as an estimate.
Victoria Sponge Cake continues to be a favourite because it represents the beauty of traditional baking. Light, elegant, and comforting, it proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether enjoyed as part of afternoon tea or served at a celebration, this cake remains a symbol of classic British charm.