Homemade Cuban sponge cake made with the flavor of home.

 

Homemade Cuban Sponge Cake: A True Creole Delight

The Cuban sponge cake is a timeless classic. With its light texture and gentle aroma of vanilla and cinnamon, it’s the perfect companion for coffee or a family snack. Making it at home is simple, affordable, and above all, a delicious way to keep the Island’s baking traditions alive.

🥄 Ingredients

  • For the cake:
    • 1 cup white sugar
    • 1 cup all-purpose wheat flour
    • 4 eggs
    • 1 tablespoon baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ½ cup milk
    • 1 pinch of salt
    • Vegetable oil (to grease the pan)
  • For the syrup:
    • Peel of 1 lemon or orange
    • 1 cinnamon stick
    • 1 cup white sugar
    • 1 cup water

 

 

🍰 Light and Airy Batter

Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the yolks with half of the sugar until the mixture becomes pale and creamy. Add the milk and mix on high speed until fully blended. Sift the flour together with the baking powder and salt, then add gradually until you obtain a smooth, lump-free batter.

🌿 Perfect Meringue and Combination

In another bowl, beat the egg whites until they increase in volume. Gradually add the remaining sugar and vanilla until the meringue is firm and glossy. Gently fold both mixtures together with circular motions to maintain the air that gives the cake its soft and spongy texture.

🔥 Accurate and Even Baking

Grease a round pan about 22 cm (9 in) and dust lightly with flour to prevent sticking. Pour in the batter and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 356 °F (180 °C) for 30 to 35 minutes. Avoid opening the oven before 25 minutes to ensure proper rising. It’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out completely clean.

🍯 Homemade Aromatic Syrup

While the cake is baking, prepare a light syrup. Combine the water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until it thickens slightly. Allow it to cool before use. Once the cake is unmolded, pour the syrup over the top so it soaks in slowly and keeps its moisture.

❄️ Cooling and Presentation

Let the cake rest at room temperature before unmolding. Once ready, you can enjoy it warm or refrigerate it for a few hours to achieve an even softer texture. Its flavor improves over time and pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

ℹ️ Useful Information

  • Servings: 10
  • Preparation time: 20 minutes
  • Baking time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Cuisine: Cuban

💡 Final Tip

For a special touch, sprinkle powdered sugar or shredded coconut on top for a more attractive presentation.

Do you prefer your sponge cake moist or drier? Both versions are delicious—it’s all a matter of taste. Try it and decide for yourself!

🏷️ Tags: Cuban sponge cake, traditional desserts, Cuban baking, homemade syrup

For the Spanish version, visit: Panetela Cubana Casera: Esponjosa, Dulce y con Sabor a Hogar.