South African Basic Sponge Cake

May 17, 2023May 17, 20230 18

South African Classic Sponge Cake, a perfect balance of sweetness and lightness for your tea time

by The Chefin Dessert

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Ready In

45 min

Level

Very easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

180

Sugar

23g

Fat

The sponge cake is a very common cake recipe found in South Africa that is often served at tea parties or baked for dessert. This cake is fluffy and light, making it a delicate treat that melts in your mouth. South African sponge cake is different from other sponge cakes due to the added hot water, which creates a moist crumb. It is usually topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar and paired with tea or coffee. This cake is simple to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for gifting to a loved one or baking with kids.

Instructions

1.	Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2.	In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until thick and lemon-colored.
3.	Gradually add the caster sugar while still whisking the mixture and keep whisking until the mixture is light and fluffy for about 10-15 minutes until the sugar has dissolved.
4.	Gradually fold in the self-raising flour and salt, until just combined.
5.	In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
6.	Gently fold the egg whites into the flour mixture.
7.	Add melted margarine and hot water into the mixture and gently fold until just combined.
8.	Transfer the mixture into a greased and lined deep 22-centimetre round cake tin.
9.	Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean from the center when inserted.
10.	Cool for a few minutes before turning it out on a wire rack to cool completely.

PROS

South African classic sponge cake is light, fluffy, and has a delicate taste, making it perfect for a delightful afternoon tea.

It is budget-friendly and easy to make at home.

CONS

The cake is not rich in flavors, and some people may find it too plain.

It is best to eat it on the day of baking; otherwise, it might dry out.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This sponge cake is a low-fat dessert compared to other cakes.
It contains protein and carbohydrates, which are essential for energy production and muscle building.
The egg yolks used are an excellent source of Vitamin A, D, and E, as well as minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc while the egg whites are high in protein.
However, the sugar in the cake should be consumed moderately since it raises blood sugar levels and may lead to weight gain if not consumed in moderation.

	3 eggs , at room temperature , separated
	3/4 cup caster sugar
	1 cup self-raising flour
	1/4 teaspoon salt
	1 tablespoon melted margarine
	1/2 cup hot water